Ship Car To Japan


Car Shipping to Japan from the USA
How Much Does It Cost & Time Examples For Hauling Examples
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY to(New York port) to Toyama | $275 | $3,300 | 5+29 |
| Los Angeles to(California port) to Kobe | $350 | $2,000 | 5+34 |
| Las Vegas, NV to(California port) to Okinawa | $450 | $2,500 | 5+23 |
| Portland, OR to(California port) to Osaka | $475 | $2,100 | 6+25 |
| Phoenix, AZ to(California port) to Okinawa | $550 | $2,500 | 6+23 |
| Detroit, MI to(New York port) to Toyama | $575 | $3,300 | 6+29 |
| Denver, CO to(California port) to Yokohama | $775 | $2,000 | 7+24 |
| Memphis, TN to(New York port) to Toyama | $800 | $3,300 | 6+29 |
| Miami, FL to(New York port) to Toyama | $925 | $3,300 | 7+29 |
| Houston, TX to(New York port) to Toyama | $1,075 | $3,300 | 7+29 |
- *Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
- *Save ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
- *Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
- *Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
- *The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Popular Destinations

Temporary Import
As we delve into our informative discussion today, we will traverse the savannah of need-to-know details of temporary vehicle importation and car shipping services to international destinations. Whether you're considering a move in the United States from bustling California, perhaps in the heart of the shipping vehicle hub of Los Angeles, to New Jersey, or requiring you to ship from quaint towns in Belgium or ancient lands of Jordan to the luscious landscapes of Jamaica, Bangladesh or even far-flung locations such as glamorous Spain, frigid Norway, exotic Malaysia, Cyprus or the United Arab Emirates, understanding the nuances and customs clearance procedures from the point of origin to the intended destination is essential for an efficient shipping process.
Shipping orders to international lands like these places or even to Pakistan have unique criteria for vehicle shipping that may differ, from the windmill-filled Netherlands or the tropical ambiance of Indonesia to the crowded streets of Los Angeles. Crafting your shipping posts carefully, considering cost considerations to prepare your belongings for the journey, whether working with a reputable car shipping company in New York or coordinating with local ports in historic Bulgaria, selecting the correct shipping method can make a remarkable difference without a disadvantage.
Before you start the engine on shipping your vehicle - be it a car, a motorcycle, or anything in between - temporarily, you need to complete a Carnet de Passage en Douane (CPD), also known as the "Carnet de Passages," a key ingredient in the customs document identity recipe for the importation of automobiles from as far as Japan or France to other countries. Acquiring the CPD almost mimics a journey, starting with shipping it with all its required documentation to the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). The list of people allowed to drive the vehicle while journeying across roads in Japan or picturesque Norway, is a prerequisite. Detailed information regarding the entirety of the import process - including the price rates, other associated costs, and a choice of using roro (Roll-on/roll-off), or container service - can be found neatly packed like shipments in an itemized list on the JAF website.
Whether you find yourself threading through the narrow roads of the Philippines as you head to the port or navigating the shipping vehicles through the congested streets of Hong Kong, it is crucial to understand the international shipping regulations and requirements for importing vehicles into the destination country. Navigating through various customs and rules from New Jersey to the United Arab Emirates or from Indonesia to California can be a complex task. However, the curves in the road to the import process can sometimes appear in the form of varying regulations, depending upon the type of vehicle and its emissions standards. This makes the path steep; however, a meticulous researcher armed with a map of specific guidelines from the country's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism will find the journey doable.
Required Documents for Vehicle Dispatching
Imagine this: the CPD has been authenticated by the JAF and is now on its way back to you, paving the road for you to ship your vehicle into Japan or Belgium, without the additional roadblocks of customs duties and taxes. When shipping a car or exporting to the sandy plains of Saudi Arabia, a reputable international car shipping company like A1 Auto Transport can clear these hurdles, steering you clear of the complexity of the process, offering competitive rates, and ensuring your vehicle's safety on its international journey. Whether you are relocating to us or simply wish to take your car on a road trip across the country, shipping your car to us can be a convenient and efficient option. With professional shipping companies handling the logistics, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle will be safely transported to Japan without any hassle or worries. Additionally, shipping your vehicle allows for greater flexibility and convenience once you arrive in Japan, as your car is readily available for exploration and travel throughout the country.

- Import Declaration Form.
- Commercial Invoice.
- Freight Account of Cargo.
- Statement of Premium Due.
- Bill of Lading.
- Passport.
- Registration.
- Proof of ownership
- Bill of lading.
- Insurance certificate.
- Customs declaration form.
While passing through customs, an automobile acquisition tax is assessed in addition to any customs duties.
After clearing customs, the vehicle is delivered to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) for a preliminary inspection and emissions testing.
Finally, the vehicle is ready for registration at a Land Transport Bureau Office. At this point, vehicle taxes are due, and the registration form has been granted. Read more about Japan's vehicle registration process here.
Because rules and regulations regarding the importation of vehicles are constantly changing, it is essential to consult the Japan Customs website before deciding to ship your car. It is also beneficial to enlist the help of a trustworthy auto shipping company to aid you through the process.
Logistics for Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo
A1 Auto Transport is your trusted partner for shipping heavy equipment and oversized cargo, ensuring a seamless journey from the bustling hubs of the U.S. to tech-driven Japan or other global destinations like El Salvador, Cambodia, Portugal, the Cayman Islands, Papua New Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. Our advanced transport solutions guarantee that your vehicle or machinery arrives safely and on time. Whether you're shipping a car to Japan or handling large-scale logistics, our experienced team manages all the paperwork and customs procedures for a hassle-free process.
With our reliable international car shipping services, you can confidently transport your vehicle overseas. Whether relocating permanently or planning an extended stay, having your own vehicle in Japan offers unmatched convenience. Our expertise extends to handling a wide range of oversized equipment, ensuring we can accommodate various shipping needs, including:
- Large Vehicles
- Heavy Machinery
- Motor Graders
- Harvesters
- Skidders
- Farm Equipment
- Mining Equipment
- Industrial Equipment
- Paving Equipment
- Hydraulic Machinery
- Forklifts
- Cranes
- Backhoes
- Tractors
- Engineering Equipment & More
No matter the size or type of cargo, we are equipped to meet your shipping needs efficiently. As a licensed and experienced international transporter, we provide full insurance coverage on every shipment, whether you're shipping within the U.S. or transporting a vehicle to Japan. Trust A1 Auto Transport for secure, efficient, and stress-free international shipping services.
Your Overseas Delivery Options Through A1-AT
At A1 Auto Transport, we understand that every client has unique shipping needs. That’s why we offer four specialized shipping methods designed for various routes, from Papua New Guinea's rugged landscapes to Portugal's historic streets. Our services include container shipping for heavy cargo, roll-on/roll-off (RORO) for operable vehicles, lift-on/lift-off (LoLo) for crated freight or inoperable vehicles, and flat rack shipment for extra security during transport. Choosing a reliable shipping company is crucial if you’re shipping a car to Japan. Comparing rates, understanding customs regulations, and working with experienced professionals will ensure a hassle-free process when you ship a car to Japan. Our team is well-versed in Japan’s import rules, helping car owners navigate the complexities of international vehicle shipping smoothly.
- Container Transport
- Flat Rack Shipping
- Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping
- Lift-On/Lift-Off Shipping
Our comprehensive shipping services, including container shipping and RORO, cater to various needs based on your vehicle type and destination. Whether your car fits securely in a 40-foot shipping container or requires open-air transport, we offer cost-effective and reliable solutions to ensure safe and timely delivery. We specialize in international car shipping to Japan, the USA, Germany, New Zealand, Spain, Hong Kong, Bulgaria, Finland, Estonia, and even South Africa. Our team handles all essential paperwork and logistics, ensuring a smooth, stress-free shipping experience. By entrusting us with your car shipping needs, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be efficiently transported and delivered to Japan. Selecting a reputable international car shipping company is the key to a seamless process, and we are here to make it effortless for you.

Relevant Statistics
- Over 15,000 cars are imported into Japan annually through international shipping.
- Approximately 90% of car imports to Japan are used vehicles.
- The average cost to ship a car to Japan ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.
- Around 70% of the cars imported into Japan come from countries outside Asia.
- Yokohama is the busiest port for car shipments to Japan, handling over 60% of the total car imports.
General Facts
- Shipping a car to Japan requires compliance with the country's strict import regulations.
- Cars in Japan drive on the left side of the road.
- The process typically involves hiring a shipping company and submitting the necessary documentation.
- Import duties and taxes may apply when bringing a car into Japan.
- Research and planning are recommended to ensure a smooth car shipping process to Japan.
- Related Information :
- Can I afford to ship a car?
- Can I ship a military car?
- What is the best shipping method to transport a car from the US to Japan?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Japan?
Shipping a car to Japan typically costs between $1,800 and $4,800 from the U.S. Most standard sedans shipped via RORO from West Coast ports fall near the lower end, while containers, SUVs, or East Coast departures cost more. Final pricing is influenced by vehicle size, shipping method, port access, insurance, and seasonal vessel demand. For detailed pricing ranges and cost drivers, see our international car shipping guide.
How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Japan?
Transit times typically range from 3 to 6 weeks door to port. West Coast departures to ports like Yokohama or Kobe average 21 to 30 days, while East Coast shipments take longer due to routing. Timing depends on port schedules, vessel availability, customs clearance, and weather conditions in the Pacific. Planning ahead helps avoid peak-season delays and reduces storage or demurrage risks.
What shipping methods are available when sending a car to Japan?
The two primary options are RORO shipping and container shipping. RORO is the most affordable and commonly used for operable vehicles, while containers provide added protection for high-value or classic cars. Non-running vehicles require special handling and higher rates. Your choice affects cost, transit time, and loading flexibility. A full comparison of pricing and use cases is outlined in our RORO shipping cost guide.
What documents are required to ship a car to Japan?
You will need the original vehicle title, bill of sale, passport copy, export declaration, and a bill of lading. Japan also requires customs clearance and compliance with local import standards. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay release and increase fees. A complete checklist and preparation steps are explained in our international shipping document requirements.

Can I ship a car to Japan from anywhere in the U.S.?
Yes. Vehicles can be transported from any U.S. location to major export ports such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle, Houston, or New York. Inland pickup adds domestic transport costs and time but simplifies logistics. Port proximity, carrier availability, and door-to-port versus port-only service choices all affect total pricing and scheduling.
How do I get an accurate quote for car shipping to Japan?
Accurate quotes require your vehicle year, make, model, pickup location, destination port in Japan, and preferred shipping method. Rates fluctuate with fuel costs and vessel demand, so real-time pricing matters. Using a live estimator ensures current market rates and availability. You can start with our international shipping rates calculator for a fast baseline estimate.

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