Buying a used car from Japan to Australia is a step-by-step process. First, you’ll need to find a reliable Japanese car exporter, such as Autocom Japan, that specializes in shipping cars internationally. Once you select the vehicle, the exporter handles the bidding on auctions, purchasing, and logistics. You will need to ensure that the car complies with Australian import regulations, and obtain the necessary permits, including approval from the Department of Infrastructure via the ROVER system. After the purchase, the car is shipped to a port in Australia, and you are responsible for customs clearance, compliance checks, and registration before it’s ready to drive on Australian roads.
What Documents Are Needed to Import a Car from Japan?
To import a car from Japan, you will need several key documents:
- Import approval from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Communications.
- The bill of lading, which is provided by the shipping company and confirms the shipment details.
- The invoice from the seller/exporter, showing proof of purchase.
- Export certificate or deregistration certificate, which is proof that the car has been officially deregistered in Japan.
- Customs clearance documents, including a customs declaration and other relevant forms needed to comply with Australian law.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and compliance documents showing that the vehicle meets Australia’s import regulations.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from Japan to Australia?
The cost of shipping a car from Japan to Australia depends on several factors:
- Type of shipping: You can choose between roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) or container shipping. RoRo is generally cheaper but only available for drivable cars, while container shipping is more expensive but safer.
- Distance and port: The closer the destination port, the lower the cost. Common Australian ports include Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
- Shipping fees typically range from AUD 2,000 to AUD 4,000, depending on the car’s size, weight, and shipping method.
- Additional costs include customs duties, GST (10%), and other compliance fees such as quarantine inspection fees.
How to Clear Customs for a Car from Japan in Australia?
Clearing customs involves several steps:
- Submit customs declaration forms along with your import approval and shipping documents (bill of lading, invoice, etc.).
- Pay any applicable customs duties and taxes. For used cars, the customs duty is typically 5% of the customs value of the car, and GST is 10%.
- The car must undergo a quarantine inspection to ensure it meets Australia’s biosecurity standards.
- Depending on the vehicle’s type, it might need to pass compliance checks to ensure it adheres to Australian road safety standards.
- After the car has passed all inspections and you’ve paid the required duties, it will be released, and you can arrange delivery or pick-up from the port.
Best Japanese Cars to Import to Australia
Popular Japanese cars for import include:
- Toyota Land Cruiser – Known for its durability and off-road capabilities, it’s ideal for Australian terrains.
- Nissan Skyline GT-R – A high-performance sports car that’s a favorite among enthusiasts.
- Toyota HiAce – A versatile and reliable van, popular for businesses.
- Mazda RX-7 – A classic sports car known for its rotary engine and stylish design.
- Honda Civic Type R – A sporty hatchback that offers great performance and efficiency. These vehicles are popular due to their reliability, availability of spare parts, and adherence to Australian safety standards.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from Japan to Australia?
Shipping a car from Japan to Australia typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on several factors:
- Port congestion: Busy ports may delay shipping times.
- Shipping method: RoRo ships tend to be faster than container ships due to simpler logistics.
- Quarantine and customs checks: These processes add extra time, especially if the vehicle requires further inspections or cleaning.
- Season: Shipping times may vary during busy periods like holidays or during global trade disruptions.
How to Check a Car’s History Before Buying from Japan?
Before buying a used car from Japan, it’s crucial to check the vehicle’s history. Here’s how:
- Auction sheets: These contain detailed information about the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and any repairs or damages. Ask your exporter for a copy of this.
- Japanese Car Exporter Platforms: Websites like Autocom Japan or BE FORWARD often provide history reports.
- Japanese export certificates: This document will show whether the car has been involved in accidents, its year of manufacture, and if it has been altered.
- Independent inspections: Some exporters offer pre-purchase inspection services to ensure the car meets your standards.
Is It Worth Buying Used Cars from Japan?
Yes, buying used cars from Japan can be very worthwhile for several reasons:
- Lower prices: Japanese cars are generally more affordable due to the country’s strict vehicle turnover laws, leading to a surplus of quality used vehicles.
- High quality: Cars from Japan are typically well-maintained, thanks to strict vehicle inspection requirements (Shaken).
- Diverse selection: Japanese auctions provide a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury models.
- Low mileage: Japanese cars often have lower mileage due to the efficient public transportation system and short driving distances. The key is to buy from a reputable exporter to ensure you get a car in good condition.
What Australians Should Know About Japanese Car Auctions?
Japanese car auctions are the primary source for imported vehicles, and here’s what you need to know:
- Auction grading system: Cars are graded based on their condition, with higher grades indicating better quality. For example, a grade 4.5 car is almost new, while a grade 3 might have some wear and tear.
- Auction sheets: These sheets provide detailed information on the car’s mileage, condition, and any damage. It’s essential to understand these to make informed decisions.
- Access: Most individual buyers can’t bid directly in auctions and will need to work with an exporter like Autocom Japan to participate.
- Bidding: The process is fast-paced, and once a bid is placed, it’s binding, so buyers should carefully select cars beforehand.
Which Japanese Cars Meet Australian Standards?
Not all Japanese cars can be imported into Australia. There are strict regulations under the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS) and other compliance laws:
- Cars older than 25 years are often easier to import as they qualify for the Historic Vehicle Scheme.
- SEVS allows the import of specific models that are considered to have enthusiast appeal but are not readily available in Australia, such as the Nissan Silvia S15 or Toyota Supra.
- Cars must comply with the Australian Design Rules (ADR), which ensure safety, emissions, and anti-theft standards. Vehicles might need modifications to meet these standards before they can be registered in Australia.
