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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?
The cost to ship a car to Japan varies based on factors like vehicle size, shipping method (RORO vs. container), departure location, and customs fees. On average, prices range from $1,500 to $5,000. For an accurate quote, it’s best to contact a reliable international car shipping company.
What are the different shipping methods available for transporting a car to Japan?
You can ship a car to Japan using Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) shipping, which is cost-effective for operational vehicles, or container shipping, ideal for high-value cars needing extra protection. For non-operable vehicles, Lift-On/Lift-Off (LOLO) shipping is another option.
How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Japan?
The shipping time depends on the departure port, weather conditions, and customs clearance. On average, it takes two to six weeks for a car to arrive in Japan from the U.S.
Can I ship my car from Japan to the USA, UK, or Australia?
Yes, international car shipping services facilitate car shipping from Japan to the USA, the UK, and Australia. However, before shipping, it’s essential to check each country’s import regulations, emission standards, and vehicle eligibility requirements.
The cost of shipping vehicles from one country to another is never fixed. Here are some of the variables that introduce differences in the cost:
- The make and model of the car being shipped is the first important detail.
- The car's age, i.e., its manufacturing batch/date, is also important (for some, a more accurate measure of a car's age – when it comes to monetary value – is how much it has been driven).
- The current condition of the car and its value.
- The distance, both over-land and by sea that needs to be covered by the transport company, i.e. in this case, the California port to Kobe route is cheaper.
- The cost will also depend on your preferred shipping option, i.e. roll-on, roll-off option is much cheaper than container shipping.
- Duties and taxes, if applicable, will add to the costs.
- You might have to pay an additional sum for your insurance coverage if you chose to get one for the vehicle.
- You'll also have to pay for the equipment and materials used in the shipment process.
- The purpose of entry of the car into the recipient's country will also affect the cost.
Can I reschedule my cargo date?
Yes, at A1 Auto Transport, we believe in facilitating our customers as much as we can but there are some limitations to when you can reschedule and when not. Your safest bet is to tell us as soon as possible if you have a change of plan because once the vehicle has been boarded and shipped, nothing can be done.
Ideally, you should inform us at least a day or two before the shipping date so that we can act in time and facilitate you here.
What is the most affordable freight option for sending a car to the USA?
If you want to minimize your shipping costs, your best bet would be the roll-on, roll-off option, or open-air shipment. This is the most preferred choice anyways and it allows you to save a lot of money, especially if all that you want to do is to ship the car only.
The container shipment option is only viable in rare cases, and it costs more.
While we can't give you an exact cost frame because of the variance introduced by several factors, we assure you that you will be saving money this way.
You can save up even further if you decide to pick up the car from the port directly instead of having it delivered to your place.
What documents are required to ship a car to Japan?
The required documents include:
Bill of Lading (BOL)
Export Certificate (if shipping from Japan)
Customs Declaration
Proof of Ownership (Title & Registration)
Insurance Documents
What happens after the car arrives at its destination?
After passing through the customs office in Japan, the vehicle is taxed and then sent to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). Here the vehicle is tested for dangerous emissions and safety features.
Once it passes these tests, it is forwarded to the Land Transport Bureau Office for registration, and it is here that you'll pay the taxes in return for the registration form, and that's it. Of course, these rules and protocols are subject to change so be sure to stay up to date by logging into the Japan Customs site.
Plus if you get A1 Auto Transport involved in the process, you can expect to be more streamlined and smoother than otherwise.
What will happen if my documents are inaccurate or incomplete?
First of all, if the customs department puts your vehicle on hold it does not necessarily mean that there is something wrong with it. It could be a routine inspection. However, if your documents are either missing or inaccurate, then you have a reason to worry.
The customs department will ensure that the value/cost of the vehicle has been listed accurately so that it can be taxed properly. This inspection process may drag on for a couple of days, and the delay won't be the only thing that'll cost you; you'll have to pay a fee too.
If you get A1 Auto Transport involved, you can rest assured that things will run smoothly for you, and there won't be any trouble with the customs officials.
Can I ship heavy equipment or oversized vehicles to Japan?
Yes, shipping companies specialize in transporting heavy equipment, including tractors, cranes, forklifts, and industrial machinery. Flat rack shipping and RORO services are commonly used for oversized cargo.
As a foreigner, can I import a car into the USA?
Absolutely! If you're here temporarily and need to bring in your vehicle, you can do so with a one-year limit. But this is only possible once you've reached out to the Environment Protection Agency and acquired permission to import your vehicle.
Can I import classic JDM vehicles to the USA?
Yes, you can! Classic JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars have a huge fan base in the USA, and owning such a model would be a matter of prestige and pride.
According to the federal regulations of the USA, you can import any vehicle that is more than 25 years old without a worry of the world about the federal regulations, and even otherwise but only if the vehicle falls onto the certain environment- and automobile-safety standards dictated by the Environment Protection Agency and the Department of Transport.
You are open to importing some of the most legendary classic JDM vehicles ever, such as:
- Honda CR-X
- Nissan Fairlady Z
- Nissan 180SX
- Nissan Silvia S13
- Nissan Skyline R32
- Toyota Soarer Z20
- Toyota Sera, Toyota MR2
- Toyota Supra A70
- Toyota Land Cruiser
And almost 70 additional classic Japan-made classics!
The opportunity will soon encompass even more world-famous JDM vehicles. While the list is limited for the time being, although pretty much stuffed with famous titles even now, you will find your perfect match in there soon enough if you haven't already.
Is the freight of classic JDM vehicles to the USA complicated?
No, it is not, but only under one condition, and that is the car should be 25 years old at the very least. This makes the process easier since you don't have to worry about compliance with federal regulations, and the paperwork is also minimal.
But of course, this is not the case with all vehicles, so be sure you import only the ones that fall into this list of exemptions.
How do I get a quote for shipping my car to Japan?
For an accurate shipping quote, provide details such as vehicle type, departure port, destination, preferred shipping method, and timeline. Most international shipping companies offer online calculators or direct consultations for price estimates.
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