Frequently Asked Questions
General
It is a five-step process: (1) browse our inventory and pick a vehicle, (2) submit an inquiry with your destination port — we send a total CIF quote, (3) confirm the order and pay the agreed deposit (typically 10%) to lock the unit, (4) we handle export inspection, FOB loading, and shipping documentation, (5) you receive the original Bill of Lading and import the car at your nearest port.
Every vehicle is sourced directly from the Japanese domestic market — auctions (USS, JAA, TAA), trade-in stock from main dealers, and our own retail showroom in Yokohama. We physically inspect each unit before listing.
Each listing includes the original auction sheet (when applicable), interior/exterior photo set (typically 20+ images), the Japan Export Certificate, and our independent grading note. For premium units we also provide an HD walk-around video and a third-party JEVIC / J-EVIC inspection report on request.
Our default quote is CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) to your nominated port — vehicle price, FOB charges, ocean freight, and marine insurance up to discharge. Quotes can also be issued FOB Yokohama or C&F if you prefer to arrange your own insurance. Customs duty, VAT, and clearance at your end are not included and depend on local regulations.
We ship to over 200 countries worldwide. Major destinations include the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Mozambique, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. You can confirm shipping to your country by selecting it during the inquiry — if a route exists, you will see live freight pricing.
Transit times depend on the destination. Typical RoRo schedules: East Africa (Mombasa, Dar es Salaam) 25–35 days, Southern Africa (Durban) 30–40 days, UK/Europe 40–55 days, Australia/New Zealand 25–35 days, Caribbean 45–60 days, Pacific Islands 21–30 days. Vessel sails monthly to most ports — exact ETD is shown on the booking confirmation.
Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) to our corporate account in Japan is the standard method. We also accept secure online card payments for the deposit, and PayPal for amounts under USD 5,000. We do not accept cryptocurrency, cash on delivery, or third-party escrow services.
Yes — a 10% deposit (or USD 1,500 minimum, whichever is higher) confirms the order and reserves the vehicle. The balance is due before the original B/L and export documents are released. Deposits are refundable up to the point of vessel booking minus a 5% admin/handling fee.
Almost all Japanese-domestic vehicles are right-hand drive. We can also source left-hand-drive units (export-spec or re-imported from LHD markets) on request — let us know during the inquiry.
Yes. Common requests include: spare key cutting, GPS/audio system disabling, mileage report (if required for import), conversion to LHD, fitting of new tyres, paint correction, and roof rack/bull-bar installation. Pricing is quoted on request before shipping.
After balance settlement we courier (DHL/FedEx) the original Export Certificate (Deregistration), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, and Insurance Certificate. Scanned copies are emailed within 24 hours of vessel departure so you can begin pre-clearance.
Each country sets its own rules. For example: Kenya max 8 years, Uganda max 9 years, Tanzania max 10 years, UK no age limit (special compliance over 25 years), New Zealand no age limit but stricter compliance for newer cars. We display the age cap on the inquiry form and will warn you if a unit does not qualify for your country.
Marine insurance is included on every CIF shipment. If the vehicle is damaged in transit, photograph the damage at the port before clearance, request a survey from the insurer's local agent, and contact us within 7 days. We assist with the claim and replacement parts where available.
Yes, with conditions. Before vessel booking: full refund minus 5% admin fee. After vessel booking but before loading: deposit forfeited (covers documentation and storage). After the vehicle has been loaded onto the vessel: cancellation is no longer possible and the order must be completed.
Used vehicles are sold "as inspected" — the auction sheet and inspection report are the warranty. Once the vehicle leaves our yard we cannot warrant mechanical condition, but we are reachable by email and WhatsApp for any documentation or paperwork questions long after delivery.
Email: info@japanautosearch.com. Phone/WhatsApp: +81 45-271-7805. Office hours: 09:00–18:00 Japan Standard Time, Monday to Saturday. Inquiries submitted through your dashboard are answered within 12 business hours.
Didn't find your answer? Contact us — we reply within 2 hours during Yokohama business hours.