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Import Japanese Used Cars to United States

Source a vehicle in Japan and plan shipment to United States with ClickCar. We can help with auction sourcing, Japan-side paperwork and freight arrangements.

Get a QuoteAuction Sourcing

United States Import Regulations

NHTSA generally allows a vehicle at least 25 years old, measured from manufacture, without compliance with all federal motor-vehicle safety standards. EPA emissions requirements are a separate check.

Check before bidding

Verify the manufacture month, original engine configuration, NHTSA declaration and EPA route before bidding; 21 years is not a substitute for the 25-year safety rule.

Check the official guidance EPA Understand import costs
Documents Required
Export deregistration evidence, a commercial invoice and shipping documents are commonly needed. Destination authorities may require additional paperwork. An auction sheet is available only for auction-sourced vehicles.

This is a planning guide, not customs or legal advice. Requirements and shipping schedules can change; confirm them for the exact vehicle before committing to purchase.

Vehicle Types to Discuss for United States

Explore vehicle types and ask us to check import eligibility before purchase.

Sedans
SUVs
Vans & Minivans
Kei-Class Vehicles

How United States Buyers Receive Their Vehicle

01

Browse & Request

Tell us your preferred make, model, year, budget and destination port. We shortlist vehicles from our inventory and dealer auctions.

02

Inspect & Quote

We share available auction records and photos, discuss any additional inspection that can be arranged, and confirm your maximum bid in writing.

03

Pay Securely

We confirm the price, fees, payment instructions and transaction terms in writing before you transfer funds. Verify account details independently.

04

Deregister & Document

We handle export cancellation (輸出抹消), export certificate, deregistration and inland transport to the nearest Japanese port.

05

Ship & Deliver

We discuss available RoRo or container routes, optional marine insurance and the expected documents. Delivery timing and destination clearance depend on the chosen route.

Frequently Asked Questions — United States

Can I import any used Japanese car to United States?
Export from Japan does not guarantee import or road registration in United States. Check the vehicle's age, specification, approval pathway and the importer's eligibility with the destination authority before bidding.
How long does shipping from Japan to United States take?
Transit varies by departure port, shipping method, vessel schedule, transfers and destination clearance. We provide a route-specific estimate when a vehicle and port are known; it is not a guaranteed delivery date.
What is the total landed cost of importing from Japan?
Allow for the vehicle price, our agreed service fee, inland transport, any requested preparation, export documents and ocean freight. Insurance, destination taxes, port charges, inspection and registration may be separate. The written estimate identifies known items and exclusions before you approve a purchase.
Do I need to be present in Japan to buy?
You can send your requirements and approve a vehicle remotely. Available inspection depends on the vehicle and location. The destination importer remains responsible for local customs, approval and registration unless a separate local service is agreed.
How do I pay safely?
Payment instructions, currency, timing and any refund terms are confirmed in the written transaction documents. Verify the beneficiary details through an independent contact channel before sending a transfer; do not rely on a changed email alone.
What documents come with the vehicle?
The document set depends on the vehicle and route. It commonly includes export deregistration evidence, a commercial invoice and a bill of lading. Auction sheets and additional inspection records are supplied when available and agreed for that vehicle.

Other export destinations

KenyaSouth AfricaUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaNew ZealandUnited Arab EmiratesThailandMalaysiaSingaporePhilippinesTaiwanHong KongChina

Ready to import from Japan to United States?

Tell us the vehicle, budget and destination port. We will review the route and prepare a vehicle-specific estimate.

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