Vehicle Importation - Japan
So this is by far not a new topic in the world of all things automotive, but there has been some new developments that everyone may be interested in.
First I have to start by saying that I live in British Columbia, Canada so for our friends south of the border or people in different provinces, this may not apply.
Okay, so just that everyone knows I’m not talking out of my backside here on this one. I’ve imported a couple of cars myself from Japan and my cousin has imported nearly a dozen. Our shop is also an inspection station here in BC so we’ve seen the huge influx in this business practice.
First I’ll start with a list of tips which will be followed up with a “why”:
- Use a Customs Broker for paperwork
- Do NOT buy anything right-hand drive
- Do NOT but anything that was not manufactured in North America (make or model)
- Get ALL documentation required
- Make real nice with a mechanic for all of your repair needs
Customs Broker
This is really a no-brainer after the many cars I have imported from the US. Facts are that Customs is a lot more friendly to those people who use a broker since all of your ducks are in a row for paperwork and Customs has someone to go after if they are not.
There is a cost to this of course, but in perspective it is nothing. We’re talking about $200 - $300 max to have all the paperwork completed for you.
Don’t Buy Right Hand
Why? Well in short, most government agencies hate them for safety. They will do almost anything in their power to prevent you from getting the car on the road legally.
Unless you plan on bringing it in to race it on the track only, or take it apart for parts, just don’t waste your time and money doing it.
Non-North American Models
Okay for most this may make sense. For those who are still wondering, plain and simple answer is good luck getting parts or finding someone who can fix it.
Forget your local parts supplier, not even the dealership can get you parts and they will have to order them from the origin country. Do you have any idea how long or how much that costs?
Just don’t do it…
Get ALL the Documentation
There is a very long list here, get read to end up with a folder full of documents to get these things insured:
- Bill of Landing
- Original Export Certificate (in Japanese)
- Translated Export Certificate (in English)
- Get this done in Japan, it is free this way
- Original Bill of Sale
- Proof of Payment (the wire transfer receipt from your bank)
- Form 1 (your broker will do this for you for Canada Customs)
- Proof of taxes paid (sometimes called Form B)
- Out of Province Inspection Pass
- You will need to have the car at the physical location
- Need to find the VIN in two places
- Have the original build month and year
Find a Nice Mechanic
You WILL need to invest money in these things. The fact that these cars were not made to meet North American DOT standards will mean something needs to be replaced to get them to pass the inspection.
Common things are usually the headlights for some of the European models. Brakes and tires are also very common but one of the cars I brought over had brand new tires and brakes, but that is not common.
Also, these cars have been usually sitting for a very long time in the elements so “lot cough” is another common issue.
All sorts of odds and ends will need to be serviced as a result.
Lastly, they have some of the worst work I have ever seen when it comes to electronics. Stereos and gauges with wiring running over carpet and exposed to far worse. Some of the cars I have seen have been so bad it is beyond comical.
All this being said, you can save some good money and get some very low km cars from Japan.
You can also make a good return, but this is getting less and less with more people getting into the game.
Just be sure you end up getting a reliable source. Most people I have dealt with in Japan are very good to do business with, but as always, keep your eyes open for the scammers. Best idea is to ask around and try to find a good contact.
Cheers
- LLC -
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