VEHICLES FAQ

VEHICLE IMPORTING

Should I source the vehicle I want in my country or import from Japan?

In the first instance we suggest that you look at your local market. You can see the units physically, take a test drive, have an inspection etc. It might also be quicker since importing can take a few weeks or months, depending on how long it takes to find the vehicle you want at the price you're happy with.

There are some markets in the world where the cars might be around the same price as Japan or even cheaper. e.g. where cars have been imported in the past and suffer high depreciation. Where the model in Japan has become collectible because of its rarity, but this hasn't happened in your local market.

There's only 4 situations when it's worth importing directly from Japan:

1. Availability. If what you want isn't available in your home market, but is available in Japan and nothing else will do.


2. Condition. Where you can't find a vehicle in the condition that you want in your home market. e.g. people in Europe importing used European cars from Japan because the local ones are badly affected by rust.


3. Specification. Where you can't find the vehicle specification that you want in your local market.


4. Price. Where there's a big price difference in your home market and what you can buy and import for from Japan.

Can I import a single vehicle with your service?

Yes. You can import either a single vehicle or multiple vehicles with our service. You can also combine vehicles with other stock types in containerised shipments. Importers of single vehicles get the same high level of service as our commercial importer clients.

Could you find me some cars?

Yes. You need to let us know which vehicles from the current listings you're interested in. We then get further information about them. This may involve translating the auction house inspection reports or getting further information about them from the seller. You get to make the decision which vehicles from the one's you've selected you want to buy and import.

VEHICLE LISTINGS

How many vehicles are available with the TS EXPORT service?

Usually around 2 million vehicles covering over 180 databases are available through our service each month. These include Japanese and international brands in new, used, restored, modified and salvage grades. It includes both right hand drive and left hand drive vehicles with gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains. For most vehicle categories no exporter from Japan offers you more choice.

Where are the places I can source vehicles in Japan?

There are basically 7 places:

1. Wholesale Vehicle Auctions.


2. Salvage Vehicle Auctions.


3. Internet Auctions.


4. Dealers Who Export.


5. Dealers Who Don't Export.


6. Private Sellers & End Users.


7. Local Suppliers.

Where are the places I can source vehicles with the TS EXPORT service?

There are 6 places:

1. Wholesale Vehicle Auctions.


2. Salvage Vehicle Auctions.


3. Internet Auctions.


4. Dealers Who Don't Export.


5. Private Sellers & End Users.


6. Local Suppliers.

I've seen vehicles in Japan that are marked for sale in Japan only. Can you buy and export them to me?

Sometimes you might see vehicles in Japan that are for sale but not available for export. Sometimes they'll be messages like this:

"Sales Restricted Vehicle This vehicle can be sold in Japan only to customers holding Used Items Business Permission (Kobutsu Kyokasho). Direct sale to overseas customers is not possible."

This can particularly apply to salvage grade vehicles where sale conditions may be determined by the insurance companies who currently own the vehicle.

Our company is based in Japan and holds the Kobutsu Kyokasho licence. Because of this you can buy and import "vehicle only available for sale in Japan" vehicles with our service.

I've heard that some exporters put up dummy vehicle listings. Do you do that?

No. Sometimes exporters will put up photos of vehicles in the "Stock" section of their website for vehicles that they don't actually have. Sometimes these will be old listings, vehicles available from other exporters or just pictures of attractive vehicles that have come up at auction.

When you go to enquire you find that the vehicle isn't actually available. You then work out that you've been misled and the pictures were only put up there to get your enquiry.

We don't do that. Our listings are mostly in live databases which change in real-time. You can get any of the available listings that you see.

Can I buy a vehicle in Japan with your service and drive it around Japan before exporting it?

Sorry. Our service is a source and export service. It's not a suitable service if you're wanting to purchase a vehicle to use while living in Japan. When you source a vehicle for export with our service we need to de-register the vehicle in order to get an Export Certificate to allow the vehicle to be exported. This procedure precludes the vehicle being driven in Japan.

If you're wanting to travel throughout Japan, public transport is normally cheaper, quicker, simpler and less expensive than travel by car, unless you're only travelling to rural areas.

The documents that you require to purchase and drive a car in Japan are an Alien Registration Card (gaikokujin torokushomeisho), a Personal Seal (inkan or hanko), a Personal Seal Certificate (inkan shomeisho), Parking Space Certificate (shako shomeisho) and a Valid Driver's License (unten menkyo).

Unless you have the correct visa, a permanent place of residence in Japan with an approved car space, the required documents and a high level of proficiency in the Japanese language then owning and driving a car in Japan will normally not be practical.

Are Korean brand vehicles available in Japan?

While Korean brand vehicles are sold in Japan they're rare and the model range is much less than is available in other markets such as their home market in Korea. The vehicles are generally Right Hand Drive. If you're wanting to import Korean brand vehicles or parts it will normally be better to import them from other markets such as the Korean domestic market.

NEW VEHICLES

Can you get me a new vehicle?

Yes. However, because Japanese manufacturers restrict the distribution of new products in Japan new vehicles need to be purchased at arms length from the Japanese Domestic Market manufacturer's dealer network. This can be either through the marketing databases used by dealers or by auction. Marketing databases used by dealers have both new and used vehicles and include the Goonet, Kakaku, Car Sensor, Car Sensor Lab, and Rakuten databases.

Auctions can be either online Business to Consumer auctions like the Yahoo! Japan Auction or Business to Business auctions like Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions. Wholesale vehicle auction listings can be viewed in the JP Auction System. Select the Model you are interested in, select Mileage from 0 to 1 then click SEARCH to show new vehicles. These are usually vehicles offered by Japanese dealers.

You can also research new car prices and specifications on the JP Catalog

Japanese export regulations require that vehicles being exported as parallel exports (i.e. not exported by the vehicle manufacturers) can only be exported as "used cars". This means that even if the car has travelled less than 1 kilometre and has never been owned by anyone other than a dealer, the vehicle needs to be registered and de-registered in order to get an Export Certificate and be eligible for export.

Can you get me a never registered vehicle?

No. Vehicles need to be road registered by the manufacturer authorised dealer to sell the vehicle. A Registration Certificate or Deregistration Certificate is also needed to get an Export Certificate which is required to export the vehicle.

Why are so many new cars in Japan already registered?

The prices that vehicle manufacturers charge their dealers for vehicles is determined by by volume. Dealers will qualify for volume bonuses when they order and sell a certain number of vehicles. Because the vehicles must be road registered to qualify as "sold" the dealers will register the vehicles.

Some of the registered vehicles will sit on the dealer's lot awaiting buyers. If they have more stock than they can easily sell directly they will offer them through the wholesale vehicle auctions. Because dealers have probably made money from their volume bonuses individual vehicles sent to auction only need to cover their costs to be worthwhile for the dealer.

CLASSIC VEHICLES

Are the classic vehicles I see on your website available for export?

In most cases yes. However, there are 2 situations where this is not possible:

1. Documentation. If the vehicle documentation allows the vehicle to be road registered in Japan then we can obtain an Export Certificate and the vehicle can be exported as a whole vehicle. However, sometimes there are breaks in the documentation chain e.g. a deceased estate and this documentation isn't available.


2. Collectible Vehicles. Sometimes in the case of collectible vehicles the seller will want the vehicle to remain in Japan for future generations and not allow the vehicle to be purchased for export.

SPORTS CARS

When are used Japanese sports cars the cheapest?

Japanese sports cars will typically start depreciating the moment they leave the dealership and keep depreciating until they bottom out in price at around 10-15 years. At that time they can become salvage grade where their parts value can be higher than their whole vehicle value. If there's demand for them in Canada they'll rise a bit at the 15 year old mark. If there's demand for them in the US they'll spike up again at the 25 year old mark. By then they've usually become quite rare and will continue to increase in price.

DEALER VEHICLES

Can you get me a vehicle from Japanese vehicle dealers?

Yes. Databases like Goonet, Kakaku, Response, Car Sensor, Carview, Kuruma Erabi, Rakuten etc. are retail advertising platforms used by Japanese vehicle dealers. Most of these listings are normally only available to people within Japan. However, we were the first exporter from Japan to offer them to offshore based importers. Dealers will often list their vehicles on more than one database. However, there will typically be over 1 million unique vehicle listings available in any month.

These system are exclusive to TS EXPORT®. You can only get these system by using our service.

Why would I source from dealers instead of the Japanese wholesale vehicle auctions?

Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions will often give you the lowest prices by letting you source at the beginning of the supply chain. This is the place where dealers source and dispose of many of their vehicles. However, there may be cases when you may want to source from dealers rather than from the wholesale vehicle auctions.

There are 4 possible reasons:

1. Rarity. While hundreds of thousands of vehicles pass through Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions very rare vehicles are often easier to source through specialist dealers.


2. Condition. While wholesale vehicle auction listings receive a physical inspection from the auction house inspectors and are usually driven through the photo booth, they don't receive a full road test or workshop inspection. They are supplied in as is condition without a warranty. Conversely, dealer listings are usually provided to the buyer in Japan with a warranty and have usually had known problems fixed.


3. Photo Set. The photo set provided by the wholesale vehicle auctions typically comprises a few exterior and interior photos of the vehicle. Recently some auction houses have started to provide a single underbody photo. This is provided in combination with a damage diagram. While this is sufficient for late model, high condition vehicles it may not be suitable for older and specialist vehicles. For example, it may not show the saloon area of motorhomes and campervans. In comparison the photo sets provided by dealers are generally more extensive. They will often also provided additional photos of areas of interest if requested.


4. Price. Sometimes a dealer may not have been able to sell a vehicle and will dispose of it around cost price rather than having the expense and uncertainty of putting it to auction.

What’s the difference between the Goonet listings I see on your website and what I see on Goonet Exchange?

Goonet is one of the major databases of dealer vehicles within Japan. It is in the Japanese language and designed for Japanese consumers. It varies from day to day but there can often be around half a million vehicles available at any time.

The Goonet Exchange database is a subset of the main Japanese language Goonet database, but in English. Typically they'll be around 100,000 or more listings available in the main Japanese language Goonet database than in Goonet Exchange.

So you don't miss out on a large number of the listings we've created an English version of the main Japanese language Goonet database in our Goonet System. Because we're Japanese based exporters we can source all Goonet listings and export them to you - even those listings that don't appear in Goonet Exchange.

What are the OnePrice vehicles?

OnePrice vehicles are vehicles offered by dealers throughout Japan. It's a subset of the Goonet database. Typically there are over 300,000 listings available at any time.

Why do the dealer listings often show two prices?

Dealers will often show a low price on a listing to gain enquiries. Then sometimes the listings will have additional fees and charges. Sometimes these will be shown as a second (higher) price and sometimes they're not shown and only disclosed once you contact the dealer.

Can I buy a dealer vehicle at the lowest of the prices shown?

Normally not. But it can happen if a dealer can't sell the vehicle and wants it gone.

Can I buy a dealer vehicle for less than the highest price shown?

This is case by case. Sometimes sellers are willing to reduce the price of vehicles being exported.

Why don't the dealer listings include the full vehicle chassis numbers?

Dealers will usually only put just the last 3 digits of the chassis number on their listings. This makes it more difficult to research the price the dealer paid for the vehicle and its current location. However, once you purchase the vehicle the seller provides the registration certificate for the vehicle which contains the full chassis number. This information is also on the Export Certificate which you receive when you import the vehicle.

Conversely, vehicles listed in Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions will usually have the full chassis number. Because of this it's fairly easy to see whether the vehicle has run through Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions over the last 3 months by searching the sales statistics for that model.

If the dealer listing was sourced from Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions over the last 3 months then you can usually locate the auction inspection sheet, sale price and full chassis number from the auction sales statistics. You do this by using filters for make, model, year, colour etc. to narrow the search and then look for a match to the last 3 digits of the chassis number.

Are Japanese car dealers open every day of the week?

Normally not. Often they'll close on Tuesday or Wednesday.

SALVAGE VEHICLES

What is a Salvage Vehicle?

Salvage Grade Vehicles can be either:

• Crash Damaged Vehicles


• Mechanical Failure Vehicles


• Electrical Failure Vehicles


• Water Damaged Vehicles


• High Kilometre Vehicles


• Manufacturers Evaluation Vehicles


• Vehicles Without Demand in the Japanese Domestic Used Vehicles Market

Is it compulsory to scrap cars over a certain age in Japan?

No. This is a widespread myth in countries outside Japan.

There is no requirement for vehicles in Japan to be scrapped after a certain age or number of kilometres. Similarly, there are no punitive taxes that apply to older vehicles in Japan which encourage their owners to dispose of them.

However, vehicles in Japan with over 100,000 kilometres are considered "high mileage" and can be hard to sell as used cars in the Japanese domestic market.

Cars in Japan - irrespective of their kilometres and condition - will often be scrapped between 8 and 15 years because there is no market for them as used cars. Generally the cheapest, lowest value cars are the first ones to go end of life and the higher end sports and luxury cars are the last to go.

Cars that are collectible might then increase in price after this period because of a combination of the reduced supply and their higher desirability with age. Examples are some sports cars, e.g. Skyline GT-R, some retro cars, e.g. Nissan Figaro, and some rare spec luxury cars, e.g. BMW Alpina and M series.

Do you buy defective vehicles and repair them?

No. Our service is a source and export service. However, vehicles with repairable defects are available with our service. By importing these vehicles in their current condition you know exactly what the defects are, can import them at the un-repaired price (saving customs duties), can save on transport costs within Japan and can repair the vehicles to your own standards.

LEFT HAND DRIVE VEHICLES

What world markets are Left Hand Drive?

Left Hand Drive vehicles are pedominantly found in Right Hand traffic countries. Japan is a Left Hand Traffic country and most vehicles are Right Hand Drive. However Left Hand Drive vehicles can be registered and driven in Japan. These are generally vehicles that have been imported to Japan from Right Hand traffic countries. Because of this model range is restricted. Right Hand Traffic countries comprise the majority of vehicles in the world.

Why would I buy a Left Hand Drive vehicle in Japan rather than in a Left Hand Drive country?

There are 4 main reasons:

1. Specification. The Japanese Domestic Market specification may be better than the specification available in your country or region.


2. Condition. Left Hand Drive vehicles in Japan will sometimes be in better condition than the same model in other countries. For example European and American Left Hand Drive vehicles will sometimes become affected with rust by travelling on salt affected snowy roads in Europe and North America, where this is rare in Japan.


3. Usage. Left Hand Drive Vehicles in Japan will often have less use for age since Japan has an excellent public transport system. This means vehicle owners will often commute to work by train rather than drive, resulting in lower kilometres for vehicle age.


4. Depreciation. Vehicle depreciation rates are often higher in Japan than other countries, meaning that the same vehicle can sometimes be sourced for significantly less than in other world markets.

Are Left Hand Drive Cars Available in Japan?

Yes. Even though Japan is a Right Hand Drive country (driving on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right hand side of the car) Left Hand Drive cars are also driven in Japan and available for export.

These Left Hand Drive cars generally fall into 4 categories:

1. European Brand. These are cars made in Europe or elsewhere and imported into Japan either as new or used cars. Brands that are available include BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, Citroen, Peugeot, Renault, Volvo, Saab, Fiat and Opel and exotics such as Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini. Some vehicles from UK manufacturers such as Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Aston Martin and Mini are sometimes also available in Left Hand Drive in Japan.


2. American Brand. These are cars mostly made in either the USA, Canada or Mexico and imported into Japan either as new or used cars. The most common brands are Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hummer, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ford and Lincoln.


3. Japanese Brand Made In Japan. These are cars made in Japan for overseas Left Hand Drive markets that are exported out of Japan, sold into those markets and then imported back to Japan. These are sometimes called "reverse imports". These are frequently luxury and 4WD brands such as Lexus and Infiniti.


4. Japanese Brand Not Made In Japan. These are cars made by Japanse manufacturers outside of Japan for other markets that are then imported to Japan. These are usually manufactured in either the USA or Canada and designed for those markets. Common brands are Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota.>

Are Left Hand Drive Trucks available in Japan?

Generally speaking Left Hand Drive full size and mini trucks are not available in Japan. However, RHD to LHD conversion is available for most Japanese produced trucks. Conversion is normally only economically viable on higher value trucks.

Left Hand Drive pickup trucks are available. These are usually Japanese brand trucks by Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Mazda built in North America and imported into Japan.

Are Left Hand Drive Buses available in Japan?

Left Hand Drive Buses are generally not available in Japan. However, there may sometimes be a small number of imported LHD buses, such as North American school buses available. LHD motorhomes could also be converted to buses. While LHD to RHD conversion is available for cars and trucks it normally isn't available for buses since this would involve changes to external bodywork and floor areas.

Are some brands and models only available in Left Hand Drive?

Yes. These include:

1. American Brands. Brands such as AMC, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Hummer, Lincoln, Mercury, Oldsmobile and Pontiac and then imported into Japan either privately or through the official channel.


2. American Japanese Models. These are Japanese brand products such as Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, Mazda, Honda and Acura that are manufactured in the US and then privately imported into Japan.


3. European Niche Models. These include niche performance models such as BMW Alpina, Hartge and Schnitzer, Mercedes AMG, Brabus and Cosworth and Lancia Delta Integrale.


4. European Exotics. Brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.

Can you arrange Right Hand Drive to Left Hand Drive conversion of vehicles I buy through other services?

Sorry. RHD to LHD conversion is only available to clients who source and import vehicles from Japan with our service.

Can you arrange steering conversion of vehicles outside of Japan?

Sorry. Steering conversion is only available to clients who source and import vehicles from Japan with our service. The conversion is done in Japan prior to export.

FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES

Are Four Wheel Drive vehicles available in Japan?

Yes. These are of 7 main types of 4WD vehicles:

1. 4WD Sedans, Wagons & SUVs. There are special 4WD variants of many models of cars where 4WD is offered as an option. Most of the Subaru range is Full Wheel Drive (sometimes called "All Wheel Drive").


2. Sports 4WD. 4WD sports cars such as the Skyline GT-R, Mitsubishi Evolution and Subaru Impreza WRX.


3. Offroad 4WD. Such as the Toyota Landcruiser and Surf, Nissan Safari and Terrano and Mitsubishi Pajero. In reality these are seldom used off road. Some will be used in urban areas as SUVs and others in snow affected areas.


4. 4WD Trucks. Typically up to 2 tonne capacity Japanese brand trucks.


5. 4WD Vans. Typically passenger or commercial vans such as the Toyota HiAce, Mitsubishi Delica or Mazda Bongo .


6. Recreational 4WD. 4WD versions of motorhomes and campervans.


7. 4WD Mini Trucks ＆ Vans. 4WD versions of Japanese brand Kei Mini Trucks.
   
   Because 4WD vehicles are often used in snow affected areas they can sometimes be more prone to rust.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES

Nearly all the cars I see are automatic. Does Japan have cars with manual transmissions?

There are 3 types of transmission available in Japan:

1. Automatic. The vast majority of cars in Japan are automatic. In the past these have all been torque converter transmissions, though in the last few years more automatic transmissions in Japanese vehicles have Continuously Variable Transmission which can give better fuel economy. Also, automatic transmsissions are increasingly being used on trucks in Japan.


2. Manual. Manual transmissions are mostly found in sports cars, trucks and a few base specification commercial vehicles. The availability of vehicles with manual transmissions varies from model to model.


3. Semi-Automatic. Also called "paddle-shift" or "tiptronic" a semi-automatic transmission allows manual selection of gears without manually actuating the clutch. Semi-automatic transmissions are increasingly common on sports cars.

VEHICLE FUEL TYPES

What vehicle fuel types are available in Japan?

Fuels available include, gasoline, diesel, battery electric, electric hybrid gasoline and diesel, CNG, LPG, hydrogen, electric, hydrogen, CNG and LPG.

Are CNG vehicles available in Japan?

Generally not. However CNG and LGP vehicles are available.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Can I find out more about the battery condition?

Yes. We can check with the seller. In the case of wholesale vehicle auctions you can request a personal inspection of the vehicle. An inspector will personally inspect the vehicle and report to us on the morning of the day of auction. We'll post the results of the inspection into your Bid Tracker. This will give you information about both the current charge level and the battery condition level.

Can you arrange for the battery to be charged prior to shipping?

Normally vehicles are transported from their current location in Japan to the nearest international port. This is the quickest and cheapest way to export. We can request that the battery is charged prior to shipping but whether charging is possible will vary from vehicle to vehicle. While the number of pure electric vehicles in Japan is increasing they are still rare. Fortunately charging opportunities are improving all the time.

There are 4 possibilities for EV battery charging prior to shipment.

1. Seller. If the seller is a private seller or dealer they'll normally agree to charging the battery prior to having the vehicle trucked to port. However, if the vehicle is at a wholesale vehicle auction the auction companies will normally refuse the request and suggest that you only place bids on vehicles with a level of charge that meets your requirements. If the current charge level is not on the inspection sheet you can request a personal inspection of the vehicle and we'll enter the result into your Bid Tracker. You can then decide whether or not you want to go ahead and place a bid.


2. Trucking Depot. If the vehicle is being trucked from its current location to a trucking depot prior to being trucked to the departure port we can request that the trucking depot charge the vehicle. While we can make the request, the trucking company is under no obligation to do the works.


3. Pre Export Inspection. If you require a pre export inspection for works such as biological contaminant removal or roadworthiness certification we can request that the inspection company charges the vehicle. While we can make the request for the inspection company to charge the vehicle, unless it is one of the scheduled services they provide the company is under no obligation to do the works.


4. Port. Prior to shipping, vehicles are stored at the port during their Japan Customs clearance and immediately prior to being containerised or driven into the RO-RO carrier. While we can make the request for the holding yard to charge the vehicle, so long as the vehicle can be driven into the RO-RO carrier or container the holding yard or containerisation facility is under no obligation to do the works.

Is the charging kit inside the vehicle?

If the listing doesn't mention it we can check with the seller. In the case of wholesale vehicle auctions if the inspection sheet doesn't mention the charging kit being in the vehicle you can request a personal inspection of the vehicle. An inspector will personally inspect the vehicle and report to us on the morning of the day of auction. We'll post the results of the inspection into your Bid Tracker.

Can you send me the charging kit separately instead of sending it inside the vehicle?

Yes. If the seller is a private seller or dealer they'll normally agree to sending the charging kit to us directly with the vehicle papers. We can then send it to you by international postage or courier service.

If the vehicle is at a wholesale vehicle auction the auction house will normally specify if the charging kit will be sent to us together with the vehicle papers rather than being sent with the vehicle. If you require the charging kit to be sent to you separately then let us know this at the time you give us listings for translation and we'll check each listing individually for this and only do full translations for those listings that meet your requirements.

If the vehicle is at a wholesale vehicle auction but where the inspection sheet does not say that the charging kit will be sent to us together with the vehicle papers we can request the auction house to do it, but they're under no obligation to do so. Similarly, if the vehicle is trucked to a holding yard with a charging kit inside the vehicle we can ask the yard to send us the kit, but they're under no obligation to do so.

What battery chargers are available for the Nissan Leaf?

The Japanese Domestic Market Nissan Leaf can be charged with 3 kinds of chargers.

1. Charging Station. These are at Nissan dealers throughout Japan and in the carparks of some large shopping centres in Japan. They are capable of an 80% charge in 30 minutes.


2. 200 Volt Charger. These are portable chargers capable of a full charge in 8 hours. These are the chargers supplied with each vehicle.


3. 100 Volt Charger. These are portable chargers capable of a full charge in 28 hours.

If I import a Tesla can I get support for it in the country I import into?

You need to contact Tesla in your country to discuss what support, if any, is available for your parallel imported Tesla. Issues include access to over the air updates, Tesla navigation and the Tesla charging network, parts, servicing, repairs, warranty, recalls etc.

TRUCKS

Are full sized European and American trucks available in Japan?

Most full sized trucks available in Japan are Japanese brand trucks. Of the European trucks Mercedes Benz and Volvo are available in Right Hand Drive. Full sized American trucks are generally not available.

Why do many trucks have defects that could prevent them from being delivered to port and shipped?

Defects on trucks such as warning lights displaying and leaking fluids are common. Defects like these can prevent the vehicle being transported to the port and being accepted for RO-RO shipping. Because trucks are commercial vehicles that are on the road every day they often have high kilometres for age. They will often be driven until such time as the cost of repairing the defects is substantial and they'll be traded in for a new unit and the dealer will put the old unit to auction.

KEI MINI TRUCKS

What body types are available in Kei Mini Trucks?

The standard and most common type of body is Tray Top. Other body types are Dump, Crane, Camper, Refrigerated and Fire Truck.

Why are some Kei Mini Trucks Narrow Body and others are Wide Body?

Japanese Kei class vehicles are a vehicle class defined by vehicle size and engine displacement which enjoy special tax, insurance and parking advantages. These regulations have changed over time which has resulted in changes to Kei class vehicles.

For Kei Mini Trucks this has resulted in both Narrow Body (older) and Wide Body (newer) Kei Mini Trucks. Kei Mini Trucks up to 1998 were of the Narrow Body type. Kei Mini Trucks after 1998 were of the Wide Body type with the change in regulations allowing a maximum length of 3.4 m (134 in), a maximum width of 1.48 m (58 in) and a maximum height of 2.0 m (79 in) with a maximum displacement of 660cc.

Are Left Hand Drive Kei Mini Trucks available in Japan?

No. Kei Mini Trucks sold in Japan are specifically for the Japanese Domestic Market. They are all Right Hand Drive. However, LHD variants of the Suzuki Carry are produced in other countries.

What are the powertrain options for Kei Mini Trucks?

What are the powertrain options for Kei Mini Trucks? Kei Mini Trucks are mostly powered by 3 cylinder gasoline engines. Since 1998 they are generally limited to being 660cc and prior to that they were mostly 550cc. Since 2013 Battery Electric Kei Mini Trucks are available. Gasoline Hybrid Electric Kei Mini Trucks are currently not available, however their manufacturers offer Gasoline Hybrid Electric Kei Mini vehicles with other body types. Diesel Kei Mini Trucks are not available.

What are the transmission options for Kei Mini Trucks?

Kei Mini Trucks offer a choice of manual and automatic transmission and both Rear Wheel Drive and Four Wheel Drive. Some Four Wheel Drive trucks also have a High Range - Low Range selector. Automatic transmissions are rare on the narrow body pre 1998 trucks.

Is air conditioning available in Kei Mini Trucks or Vans?

Yes. Air conditioning is availble in Kei Mini Trucks and Vans. It is readily available in the post 1998 wide body trucks but rare on the narrow body pre 1998 trucks.

How can I tell whether a Kei Mini Truck or Van has air conditioning?

There are 4 ways:

1. Inspection Sheet AC Field. There may be a field for AC on the inspection sheet.


2. Inspection Sheet Comments. There may be information from the seller or inspector indicating AC on the inspection sheet.


3. Inspection Sheet Translation. A translation of the inspection sheet can normally show if a vehicle has air conditioning.


4. Government Recycle Levy. The Government Recycle Levy is normally over Y5,000 for Kei Mini Trucks and Vans with air conditioning and less than Y5,000 without air conditioning.

How can I find out the first month of registration of a Kei Class Vehicle?

Kei class vehicles in Japan have their own registration system which is separate to other vehicles.

Export Certificates for old Kei Class vehicles only have the year of first registration, not the month.

From October 2003 Kei Class vehicles have a month & year of first registration on their certificates. Some vehicles first registered before October 2003 may also have both the month and year of first registration on their papers, but this depends on the registration office of the first registration.

Export Certificates are in a combination of Japanese and English. If required we can do a complete translation into English.

Sometimes build information is available by putting the vehicle chassis number into a VIN Decoder.

A possible clue to the approximate build date is the seat belt label. Japanese Domestic Market vehicles have the manufacture date of the seat belt on the seat belt label. The vehicle they are fitted to was usually made not long after that date. However, if the vehicle has had the seat belt replaced (not common, but it sometimes happens) then this method is invalid.

Another workaround is to look at the dates of the Shaken inspections on the Export Certificate then apply this to the year of first registration. So long as the vehicle has continuously had Shaken since it was first sold then the manufacture date is likely to be a month or so prior to this date. However, this method is not valid if at some point the Shaken expired on the vehicle.

How do I know how many kilometres a Kei Mini Truck has travelled if it has a 5 digit odometer?

Some of the older Kei Mini Trucks have 5 digit odometers. These can provide an accurate record of kilometres travelled from 0 to 99,999 kilometres. However, after this they will reset to 0 and again run to 99,999 kilometres before resetting to 0 again. Because of this there can be a question as to whether the odometer reading of the vehicle is the actual distance the vehicle has travelled.

There are 4 ways to get more information about whether the odometer reading is accurate:

1. Vehicle Condition. Check the general vehicle condition. In particular check wear on the drivers seat, particularly the edge of the seat near the door, the wear on the steering wheel, shift knob and pedal rubbers.


2. Service Records. See if service records are available. Check the dates of each service and what works were carried out.


3. Timing Belt Sticker. Check the timing belt cover for the date and odometer reading of the last timing belt change.


4. Shaken Records. For Kei Mini Trucks that have been registered within the last couple of decades the odometer reading at the last two Shaken inspections are recorded on the Registration Certificate, Deregistration Certificate and Export Certificate. If the most recent odometer reading is lower than the previous odometer reading than either the odometer has been replaced - which is normally noted - or the vehicle has travelled over 100,000 kilometres and reset to 0 kilometres.

VANS

Why are some models of Japanese vehicles sometimes referred to as both vans and wagons ?

This applies to some van type models and station wagon type models.

Irrespective of the body shape the model variant "van" is often applied to the commercial version of the vehicle and the model variant "wagon" applied to the passenger variant. The commercial version typically has lower levels of trim and more cargo capacity than the passenger version

Because of this it's possible to have both a "van" and "wagon" version of a station wagon type vehicle and a "van" and "wagon" version of a van body type vehicle.

MOTORHOMES

What are the different kinds of campervans and motorhomes available in Japan?

There are 5 main types:

1. Van Type. Where the campervan or motorhome is a conversion of a van type vehicle. Japanese models include Mazda Bongo Friendee, Ford Freda, Mitsubishi Delica, Toyota Hilux, Nissan Elgrand, Nissan Caravan. European models include Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Volkswagen Transporter. North American models include Ford E Series, GMC and Chevy Van, Chevy Astro.


2. Pick Up Truck Type. Where the motorhome body is built on a pick up truck. Japanese models include Isuzu Rodeo, Toyota Hilux. North American models include Ford F Series trucks, Toyota HiLux (LHD), Toyota Tundra.


3. Mini Truck Type. Where the motorhome body is built on a Japanese kei mini truck. These are all Japanese built. Models include Suzuki Carry, Dahatsu Hijet, Mitsubishi Minicab.


4. Truck Type. Where the motorhome body is built on a cab-chassis. Japanese models include Isuzu Elf, Mitsubishi Canter, Toyota Camroad, Mazda Titan. North American models include Ford F Series.


5. Bus Type. Where the motorhome is either originally built as a motorhome on a bus chassis or built by a a bus manufacturer and then converted to a motorhome. Japanese models include Toyota Coaster, Mitsubishi Fuso Rosa, Nissan Civilian, Isuzu Journey. American models include Winnebago, Gulf Stream.

What's the difference between the base vehicle manufacturer and the conversion company?

Motorhomes and campervans are often built by two companies. The first is the base vehicle manufacturer. The second is the conversion company that takes the base vehicle and converts it into a motorhome or campervan.

MOTORHOME & CAMPERVAN VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS:

• Japanese base vehicle manufacturers include Toyota, Nissan, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki.
• European base vehicle manufacturers include Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen.
• North American base vehicle manufacturers include GMC, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Freightliner

• Japanese conversion companies include Yokohama Motor Sales (YMS), Vantech, AtoZ.
• European conversion companies include Westfalia.
• North American conversion companies include Winnebago, Jayco, Starcraft, Roadtrek, B.C. Vernon

Is there anything different about the Registration Certificates for campervans and motorhomes and other vehicles in Japan?

Yes. Though the format of the Registration Certificate is the same as other vehicles there are 2 common differences:

1. 610 Code. If the vehicle body has been modified it will usually have the code 610 appearing on the Registration Certificate.


2. Chassis Number Hyphen Deletion. The chassis numbers of Japanese vehicles usually have a hyphen in the chassis number. The prefix is the chassis series common to all vehicles of that series and the suffix after the hyphen is a series of numbers unique to that vehicle, usually numbers indicating build order. The Registration Certificate of a modified body campervan or motorhome will often (but not always) have the hyphen appearing in the vehicle chassis number shown on the vehicle body deleted when it is shown on the Registration Certificate.

Are Four Wheel Drive campervans and motorhomes available in Japan?

Yes. However, these are often used in alpine regions in the snow, so rust can be more common than the 2WD versions.

Are Left Hand Drive motorhomes and campervans available in Japan?

Yes. These will usually be vehicles that have been imported from the U.S.A or Europe. Because of this, they'll usually be European vehicle brands (e.g. Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Renault) or North American brands (e.g. Ford, Chrysler or General Motors). However, sometimes Left Hand Drive North American spec Isuzu (Rodeo) and Toyota (HiLux, Tundra) motorhomes are available.

Are automatic transmission campervans and motorhomes available in Japan?

Yes. However, availability will vary from model to model.

Are new motorhomes and campervans available in Japan?

Yes. These will usually be vehicles that have been manufactured and converted in Japan.

Can I use your service to rent a RV, campervan or motorhome to drive around Japan?

Sorry. Our service is a source and export service. Once you buy a vehicle through our service we need to de-register the vehicle in order to get an Export Certificate which is required by Japan Customs for the vehicle to be exported. A de-registered vehicle can't be legally driven on Japanese public roads.

If you're wanting to drive a motorhome around Japan we recommend that you rent one through one of the campervan and motorhome rental companies. Driving around Japan can be difficult if you don't have a high level of proficiency in the Japanese language.

What mains voltage is used in Japanese motorhomes?

Voltage in Japan is 100 volt. The outlets and plugs are similar to North American outlets and plugs.

BUSES

Are buses with toilets available in Japan?

Buses with toilets are rare in Japan. Japan has an extensive network of freeway service areas that offer food,drink and toilet facilities.Sightseeing and long distance buses will typically stop at these or tourist attractions at 1 to 2 hour intervals. Most of the buses with toilets in Japan are motorhomes.

VEHICLE CONDITION

Will the used car I buy be completely free of defects?

Probably not. All used cars will usually have some defects. If you're buying from Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions you can view the inspector's report which gives the defects reported by the inspector. These are in situ inspections which don't include a full workshop inspection nor a road test. You can ask for a translation of the key points of the inspector's report. You can also request a personal inspection on any points you'd like further clarification on.

If you're not sourcing from wholesale vehicle auctions you might be able to get an independent vehicle inspection. If you want a vehicle in perfect or near perfect condition you can select and import new or near new cars.

Will the vehicle arrive in the same condition that I expect it to be?

Typically if you were to import 100 vehicles most would arrive in the condition you expected, some would arrive in better condition than you expected and some could arrive in worse condition than you expected.

You should allow a contingency with every vehicle for works on arrival. At a minimum this could be cleaning, replacement of filters, fluids and wiper blades. It could also involve some repairs if there were defects that weren't picked up by the inspectors in Japan

How can I get a vehicle that hasn't had a smoker in it?

Vehicles that have not had smoking in the vehicle will sometimes have this on the listing description.

If the vehicle is being sold at one of the Wholesale Vehicle Auctions, request a translation of the the inspection sheet. If you want the vehicle to be personally checked for any signs of smoking you can request for the vehicle to be personally inspected for any signs of smoking.

This includes smell inside the vehicle, burn marks on the upholstery, carpets and plastics n the interior, whether the ash tray has any signs of ash and whether the cigarette lighter shows any signs of use.

If the vehicle is a Yahoo! Japan Auction we or dealer listing we can ask the question of the seller. In these cases we may also be able to organise an independent inspection of the vehicle.

Why do a lot of cars in Japan have very low kilometres for age?

Public transport in Japan is fast and frequent. Conversely road travel speeds are often low in Japan. Roads are often congested and even freeways can sometimes have speed limits as low as 80kmh.

This means that for journeys within urban areas it's often quicker to go by train than car. This is why it's common for commuters to use trains, even though they have a car. The car might be used for local area trips and weekends and holidays. This means that private cars will often travel fewer kilometres per year than cars in other developed countries. According to the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, a car in Japan travels a yearly average of only 9,300 kilometers (5,800 miles), less than half the U.S. average of 19,100 kilometers (12,000 miles).

However, not all vehicles in Japan have low kilomtres for age. Commercial and sales vehicles will often have high kilometres for age.

How can I check the accuracy of a vehicles odometer reading?

Tampering with vehicle odometers without disclosure is illegal in Japan. There are 4 types of checks on odometer tampering:

1. Shaken Inspection. Odometer readings are done as part of the compulsory checks done in compliance of the Japanese Road Vehicles Act and entered into the Japanese Ministry of Transport vehicle database. The odometer reading is entered onto the Registration Certificate at the time of each Shaken Inspection.


2. Auction Check. Vehicles in Japan will often go to auction through Japan's Wholesale Vehicle Auctions one or more times. These vehicles have their odometer readings entered into the Japanese National Auction Association (NAK) database which can detect inconsistencies. These safeguards don't necessarily prevent tampering with the odometer since it only ensures that the readings are consistent with previous readings. However the checks limit the amount of tampering that is possible.


3. Auction Personal Inspection. If the vehicle is at one of Japan's Wholesale Vehicle Auctions you can have the vehicle personally inspected and ask the the inspector if the wear on drivers seat, pedals, steering wheel etc. is consistent with the odometer reading.


4. Independent Inspection. We can arrange for an independent odometer inspection which gives you an inspection certificate and an odometer accuracy guarantee. These inspections include invasive inspection which can detect any evidence of tampering.

How can I check the maintenance history of a vehicle?

The first place to look is the maintenance record book. If you get your car at auction the auction house will send us the maintenance record book if it is available and we will send it through to you separately. If maintenance was done by the manufacturers dealer network then the record will be here. Whether a maintenance record book is available varies from vehicle to vehicle. Generally the older the vehicle the less chance that it will have a maintenance record book.

Many maintenance services are done by local garages, Shaken garages and national chains like Autobacs. In this case the maintenance records for the most recent service is recorded by a sticker, usually on the lower side of the dash on the drivers side. There will sometimes also be maintenance record stickers in the engine bay. The timing chain service record is located on the timing chain cover. Dates are written as Year - Month - Day. This will appear on vehicle papers, service records and service stickers. So a date written as H21.4.21 is 21 April 2009.

This lets you convert between the Japanese year system and the International system:

Can I get photos of the maintenance history of the vehicle prior to purchase?

These records include personal information such as the names and addresses of the current and previous owners of the vehicle and for privacy reasons sellers will normally not provide them.

However, if you have an independent inspection of the vehicle these records are available to the inspector and if you purchase the vehicle you will normally receive these maintenance records with the vehicle.

Can I get a translation of the maintenance history of the vehicle?

This can be done in cases where it is needed for the vehicle to be imported and registered in the destination country. If the job is small - less than one hour - it can be done in house. If the job is larger than that it would need to be sent to a professional translation service.

Are vehicles in Japan subject to compulsory inspection and maintenance?

Yes. The Japanese Road Vehicles Act requires that there are compulsory regular checks and maintenance for safety and emissions compliance. This is known as Shaken (pronounced "shah ken").

Are vehicles in Japan denied registration after a certain age or number of kilometres?

No. Though you will sometimes see this on the internet it is false. So long as a vehicle can pass the Shaken inspection it is eligible for road registration irrespective of its age or odometer reading.

Can I get Pre Purchase and Pre Export Inspections?

Yes. Inspections by independent inspectors are available when you select from wholesale vehicle auctions. We can translate the comments of the inspector into English for you. For many auctions you can also request a personalised inspection of key points that you'd like further information on.

For other vehicles in Japan we can also organise a Pre Purchase inspection, subject to the inspector being able to gain access to the vehicle.

Do vehicles in Japan suffer from rust?

Compared to other parts of the world, such as the northern parts of America or Europe, vehicles in Japan are relatively free of rust. When rust does occur there are 3 common causes:

1. Use In Snowy Areas. The most common reason for rust is the vehicles being used in areas with a lot of snow where the roads are salted to melt he snow. The long term combination of salt and water can induce rust in the underbody, suspension components, doors and panels.
   
   Rust from use in snowy areas is most common in the northern island of Hokkaido which has snow for around 6 months of the year. From the Tokyo area through to the bottom of Honshu island rust is relatively rare unless the vehicle has only been used in alpine areas. Most vehicles in Japan haven't been kept in alpine areas but rather in the large urban areas which are relatively free from snow.


2. Use In Tropical Maritime Areas. Rust from use in tropical maritime areas is most common in the southern islands of Okinawa. The long term combination of sea spray, high temperatures and rain can induce rust throughout the vehicle including body, underbody, doors and panels.


3. Manufacturing Defects. Rust can also occur as the results of defects in the manufacturing process. e.g. rust under the back seat was a common issue in the first generation WD21 series Nissan Terrano, and rust spots on the roof were common with the fourth generation Mitsubishi Lancer and FTO models.


4. Damage Or Modifications. Rust can also occur from poor body repairs or modification. For example, rust can sometimes be found in the spare tyre well as a result of removing a trunk mounted spoiler and not properly sealing the holes in the trunk, or not providing proper weather sealing after a repair.

How do I know that the used car I import from Japan is not radioactive?

Since the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster all used vehicles exported from Japan by Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier are subject to compulsory radiation inspections. We organise this automatically for you.

Costs can vary a bit from vehicle to vehicle and port to port, but around Y1,000 to Y2,000 per vehicle is typical. These inspections are billed at actual cost (the same cost we pay) not cost plus margin. They are included in the freight forwarders account which is uploaded to your Client Portal for verification.

Some of the Wholesale vehicle auctions also check vehicles for radioctivity before being admitted to the auction and are only accepted if under 0.9 µSv.

We can organise independent radiation inspections for any vehicles that have not already been inspected.

To date we've never encountered a contaminated vehicle. With the passage of time the chances of encountering a contaminated vehicle are continually decreasing as any remaining contaminated vehicles are either scrapped or cleaned sufficiently to pass the tests.

What happens if I buy a vehicle that fails the radiation test at the port?

The Fukushima nuclear incident occurred in 2011 and most affected vehicles have now either been cleaned of radioactive contamination or scrapped.

While we've never encountered any contaminated vehicles, if this were to happen the vehicle would be sent to a special cleaning facility where the vehicle is cleaned to be under the acceptable level of radiation. If this still fails to clean the vehicle to the acceptable standard we would then file a compensation claim with Tokyo Electric Power Company.

Could the vehicle I buy be the subject of theft or damage before it reaches me?

These are the possibilities for theft and damage during the export and import process:

1. Current Location. While theft of the whole vehicle would normally be covered by insurance the vehicle could be subject to theft of parts or minor damage. Because some of the vehicles at Japan's wholesale auction houses may be open it's possible that small parts could be removed from the vehicle before it is trucked to the port or it could sustain minor damage that is undetected.


2. Trucking To Departure Port. While it's rare, theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being trucked to port or while in the trucking depot.


3. Storage At Departure Port. Vehicles are stored in restricted access yards at Japan's ports. While it's rare theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being stored at the port prior to containerisation or being driven onto a Roll-On Roll-Off carrier. Damage could also be sustained with extreme events such as severe earthquakes, tsunami, typhoons or storm surges. Normally storage yards will have insurance policies, but the coverage could depend on the nature of the events and terms of the policies.


4. Loading At Departure Port. While it's rare theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being containerised or being driven onto a Roll-On Roll-Off carrier.


5. Transit. While it's rare damage could also be sustained inside a container during transit or should the vehicle not be properly secured on a Roll-On Roll-Off carrier. Stealing of small parts could also occur while on Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier.


6. Unloading At Arrival Port. While it's rare theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being removed from the container or being driven off a Roll-On Roll-Off carrier.


7. Storage at Destination Port. Theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being stored at the destination port.


8. Trucking From Destination Port To Final Destination. While it's rare theft of small parts and minor damage could be sustained while the vehicle is being trucked from the destination port to the final destination.

VEHICLE INCLUSIONS

Will I get a model manual and service book with the vehicle that I import from Japan?

This varies from vehicle to vehicle. Usually the newer the vehicle the more likely it is that it will include books. If the vehicle is being shipped Roll-On Roll-Off we'll normally send the books to you separately to avoid the possibility that they could be removed from the vehicle during storage and transit. Since the vehicle is a Japanese Domestic Market vehicle the books are normally in the Japanese language. However, some of the imported vehicles such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi etc. will often have multi-lingual books.

Will I get a set of spare keys with the vehicle that I import from Japan?

This again varies from vehicle to vehicle. The vehicle is shipped with one key in the ignition so it can be driven on or off the vehicle carrier if it's shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off or into and out of the container if you select container shipping.

Will the navigation and audio visual system in the vehicle I import from Japan work in my country?

Historically the navigation systems in Japanese vehicles are usually proprietary systems that will only work in Japan. When you start the vehicle after import you'll typically see the location of where the vehicle was driven onto the ship in Japan, which is the last location where the navigation system worked. The interface language will be Japanese and the road database the Japanese road database.

To change the Japanese language interface to an English language interface can be done by changing the system settings if the system is a multilingual system. However, this requires navigating the menu in the Japanese interface and many units are not multilingual.

To be able to use the navigation system in your destination would require there to be an English language interface and a compatible local road database available, and an experienced technician to do the conversion.

Radio systems will usually work in destination countries but often the bands will be different, meaning that you may not be able to access all stations. This can often be fixed by using a band expander to make the system match your your local bands.

CD and DVD systems in Japanese cars will usually work in your destination country. However, whether or not television signals can be properly received will depend on whether the television standard in your country is compatible with the television system in Japan.

There are sometimes services in the destination countries that can convert the Japanese audio video systems to work in your country. Fitting an aftermarket head unit is also an option that will give you 100% compatibility with the standards in your country.

VEHICLE WORKS

What works can you arrange before I ship the vehicle?

Vehicles shipped by container can be shipped in any condition so long as there are no fluid leaks. Vehicles shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off need to be delivered to the port in a condition where they start and drive normally for them to be accepted. They need to have no substantial damage, fluid leaks or excessive fumes. Sometimes issues will appear while the vehicles are being stored or as part of a pre-export inspection process required by the destination country. In these cases we arrange works that are necessary for the vehicle you've bought to be shipped and imported without problems into your country.

Typical works are:

• Cleaning. Interior and exterior cleaning to ensure the vehicle meets the biological contaminant standards of the import regulations.


• Aircon Gas. Evacuation of aircon gas and modification of aircon systems to comply with import regulations.


• Body Repairs. Simple repairs to ensure that the vehicle complies with shipping company rules and can pass mandatory pre-export inspections. These repairs are basic repairs such as replacing lights, mirrors, fenders, bumpers, doors etc. That is, anything where the damaged parts can simply be unbolted and good parts bolted on in their place. Since the work is done to meet import inspection requirements, additional work may need to be done in the destination country to make the vehicles suitable for sale. Sorry. Major repairs that require a workshop such as chassis straightening, replacement of suspensions, repairs within the engine bay and drivetrain repairs can't be done.


• Battery. Charge or replace battery so that the vehicle will start when being shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off.


• Fuel. Add sufficient fuel for the vehicle to be driven on and off the car carriers to port and onto the ship in the case of Roll-On Roll-Off shipping.


• Spark Plugs. Replace spark plugs if the plugs are old or fouled and preventing the vehicle from starting.


• Recall Works. Organise any outstanding recall works prior to shipping. Please let us know if this is required when you give us your Shipping Instructions.


• Shipping Related Works. Remove objects inside the vehicle such as wheels, tyres, loose parts if required by the shipping company. Remove any attachments to the exterior of the vehicle such as roof racks or roof mounted lights if required by the shipping company.

What levels of cleaning are available with your service?

Various levels of vehicle and machinery cleaning are available to meet the requirements of different countries:

1. Light Cleaning. Light cleaning to remove dirt from visible areas. This would be equivalent to a basic exterior car wash.


2. Light Cleaning to remove all dirt from body and underside. This would be the same as a basic exterior car wash plus the underside and wheel wells.


3. Physical Removal of all biological contaminants. This would include removal of all dirt, bugs, seeds, fur etc from body, undersides including inner fender areas, air intake areas, radiator, condenser, engine bay, engine underside, interior including seats, carpet, mats etc and trunk.


4. Physical Removal of all biological contaminants plus heat treatment. This is the highest level of cleaning available. It would include the physical removal of biological contaminants plus heat treatment to kill any possible live insects and insect eggs.

How do you clean a vehicle to remove biological contaminants?

The aim is to remove biological contaminants such as dirt, grass, hair and bugs. This is the process we follow when cleaning vehicles for biological contaminants at our Export Centre and when instructing companies who clean the vehicles at the port.

We use a 5 point cleaning process:

1. Engine Bay. Clean the dirty areas of the engine bay by jetspray taking care not to damage the radiator or aircon condensor. Clean the cabin air ventilation intake chamber of leaves and dirt with jetspray and compressed air.


2. Exterior. Hand wash to remove dirt. Remove dirt build up on windscreen and rear screen seals.


3. Interior. Remove mats to facilite cleaning. Vacuum clean seats, mats and carpets to remove dirt and hair. Hand clean dash, console and glove box to remove dust and dirt.
   
   
4. Trunk. Remove carpet to facilitate cleaning. Vacuum clean carpet and inside trunk to remove dirt and hair.


5. Under Vehicle. Clean inside strut towers, around suspension components, under engine, under wheel arches and inside bumpers with jetspray.

Can I have the vehicle modified before it leaves Japan?

We don't recommend this for 5 reasons:

1. No Warranty. Having the work done in Japan gives you no warranty for either parts or labour in your destination country. If something goes wrong, unfortunately you're on your own.


2. Documentation. The instructions, and language on the modified parts will often be for the Japanese domestic market and usually only in the Japanese language making them unintelligble unless you have native proficiency in the Japanese language.


3. Compliance Issues. Some countries require vehicles to be unmodified and at "factory specification" to be imported and road registered. If the vehicle is modified it can be denied importation or you may be required to restore the vehicle to factory specification at your cost.


4. Costs. While Japan has had 2 decades of deflation, costs in Japan are still high by world standards. In most instances it will be cheaper to have the work done in the destination country.


5. Import Duties. Having the work done in Japan makes the parts and labour of the modification works taxable when you import the vehicle. On top of the high cost of having the work done you'll usually need to pay import duty on that amount as well.

VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS

What are the different vehicle classes in Japan?

Japanese authorities classify vehicles into number classes for the purposes of taxation and other regulatory requirements and the manufacturers will usually design their vehicles to fit these categories. The current categories came into effect in 1998 and range from 0 to 9:

0 Number vehicles. Road registered construction machinery.

1 Number vehicles. Gasoline trucks with an engine capacity over 2,000cc and/or longer than 4.7 metres, narrower than 1.7 metres, higher than 2 metres.

2 Number vehicles. Small to medium buses with an engine capacity over 2,000cc.

3 Number vehicles. Passenger cars with an engine capacity over 2,000cc or exceeding the length and width regulations for compact cars.

4 Number vehicles. Gasoline trucks, vans, or station wagons with an engine capacity from 660cc to 2000cc and/or shorter than 4.7 metres, narrower than 1.7 metres, lower than 2 metres. Also Kei class vehicles with a a maximum engine capacity of 660cc that are used for carrying cargo.

5 Number vehicles. Passenger cars with an engine capacity from 660cc to 2000cc and shorter than 4.7 metres and narrower than 1.7 metres. Also Kei class vehicles with a a maximum engine capacity of 660cc that are used for carrying passengers.

6 Number vehicles. Three wheeled trucks with an engine capacity less than 360cc.

7 Number vehicles. Three wheeled passenger cars and passenger cars with an engine capacity from 660cc to 2000cc and shorter than 4.7 metres, narrower than 1.7 metres.

8 Number vehicles. Special vehicles requiring yearly inspection with an engine capacity greater than 660cc.

9 Number vehicles. Road registered tractors and forklifts.

What does the writing, numbers and colours on Japanese number plates mean?

The writing, numbers and colours on the plate indicate where the vehicle is registered, the class of the vehicle and whether it is a private or commercial vehicle:

1. Writing. The Japanese kanji writing in the top left of the number plate is the name of the registration office where the vehicle is registered. This can be a prefecture or local government area.


2. Numbers. The first of the three numbers following this indicates the vehicle class. These classes range from 0 to 9. The other numbers are unique identifiers for the particular vehicle.


3. Colours. The colours of the number plates and writing change according to whether the vehicle is kei class or other classes and whether the vehicle is registered as a private or commercial vehicle. Kei class vehicles have a Yellow number plate with black text for private vehicles and black number plate with yellow text for commercial vehicles. Other class vehicles have a white number plate with green text for private vehicles and a green number plate with white text for private vehicles.

Do you have a Database with Vehicle Specifications?

Yes.

Are speedometers in Japan calibrated in Kilometres Per Hour or Miles Per Hour?

Normally Kilometres Per Hour. However,some British and American classic privately imported vehicles can be in Miles Per Hour.

VEHICLE BUILD DATE

How do I know when a vehicle was built?

Japanese vehicle documentation gives the date of first registration of a vehicle, not the build date. If the vehicle has been registered in Japan, then deregistered and then re-registered then the date of the re-registration will be shown. Decoders help you work out the build date of a vehicle.

Japan uses two calendar systems. The first is the same as normal international calendar, the Gregorian calendar. The second is a system based on the year of reign of the Japanese Emperor. This is often used for the date of first registration.

The date of first registration on Japanese wholesale vehicle auction inspection sheets, Japanese vehicle registration documents and Export Certificates is shown in the Japanese Year System. You can use our conversion tool or table to convert from the Japanese year system to the international system.

VEHICLE DOCUMENTATION

What documents do I receive when I import vehicles with your service?

Normal documentation is 1 copy of the original Bill of Lading, Invoice with vehicle chassis numbers and the original Export Certificate. We also include digital versions of the invoice from the seller, trucking company invoice when it's available and the freight forwarders invoice.

We upload the digital version of shipping documentation and invoices to your Client Portal as soon as they're available and send through the original documents as soon as all outstanding accounts are settled.

You can let us know if you have any other documentation requirements when you give us your shipping instructions as part of setting up your Trading Account.

Can you send me the original Registration and Deregistration Certificates?

No. When you source a vehicle through our service we need to get an Export Certificate for it to be exported. If the vehicle is registered we need to surrender the Registration Certificate to get a Deregistration Certificate. In turn we need to surrender the Deregistration Certificate to get an Export Certificate.

If we were to send you the original Registration or Deregistration Certificates then we could not get an Export Certificate and could not export the vehicle to you.

I've lost my Export Certificate. Can I get another one?

There are 4 options in cases like this.

1. Digital Version of Export Certificate. For all previously registered vehicles exported whole we create a digital version of the Export Certificate. This is available in the documents folder which can be accessed from the Shipping Status page for that shipment. You're able to download the digital version of the Export Certificate and print it out.


2. Certificate of Previous Ownership. It's possible that a Certificate of Previous Ownership could be obtained. This contains the same information as the Registration Certificate, Deregistration Certificate and Export Certificate. However, unlike the Export Certificate this is in the Japanese language only.


3. Independent Validation. Check with authorities in your country whether there is a way that the vehicle can be validated by a government agency or independent service based on other sources such as shipping records.


4. Return vehicle to Japan. If you require another original version of the Export Certificate the vehicle would need to be shipped back to Japan, re-registered in Japan, then deregistered, then the deregistration paper surrendered to get a fresh Export Certificate issued, The vehicle could then be re-exported to you.

My country requires that Japanese Export Certificates be translated. Can you do this?

Yes. Most countries will accept bilingual English-Japanese Export Certificates issued by the registration offices in Japan. However, sometimes countries will require that the bilingual Export Certificate is fully translated to English. For example, this is sometimes required in Canada.

Your Customs Broker can tell you whether the bilingual English-Japanese Export Certificate is sufficient by itself (in most instances it is) or whether an English only translation of the Export Certificate is required. Please let us know about this when you give us your shipping instructions.

What dates are on the Registration, Deregistration and Export Certificates?

1. Registration Certificate. Month and year of first registration. Date of issue.


2. Deregistration Certificate. Month and year of first registration. Month, day and year of deregistration. Date of issue.


3. Export Certificate. Month and year of first registration. Month, day and year of deregistration. Date of issue.

Is the vehicle engine number on the Export Certificate?

No. The vehicle engine number is not on the Registration Certificate, Deregistration Certificate or Export Certificate.

My country requires me to have a Certificate of Origin. Can you arrange this?

Yes. Please let us know about this in the Special Requirements section of your Shipping Instructions and we can arrange this for you.

Could you explain the Japanese Vehicle Year System?

Japan uses two calendar systems. The first is the same as normal international calendar, the Gregorian calendar. The second is a system based on the year of reign of the Japanese Emperor.

Vehicles in Japan are identified by both systems, though vehicle registration documentation and vehicle service records usually shows the Emperor system.

Can you export a vehicle that doesn't have documents?

To export a whole vehicle from Japan requires an Export Certificate for that vehicle. This is usually done by deregistering the vehicle and then using the deregistration papers to obtain the Export Certificate from the registration office. The Export Certificate is then submitted to Japan Customs as part of the documentation bundle required for Japan Customs to allow export to go ahead.

There can be genuine reasons why a vehicle may not have documents. Common cases are where the vehicle has been entered into the government's recycle register as an end of life vehicle for dismantling. Another one may be where the owner has lost the registration papers, which can sometimes occur with old vehicles. Similarly, if the vehicle is a motorsport vehicle it may not have ever been road registered and so may not have papers.

In these cases the vehicles require dismantling and shipped as parts in order to be exported from Japan.

Care needs to be taken with undocumented vehicles to avoid taking possession of a stolen vehicle. We only source undocumented vehicles where we know the supply chain to avoid the possibility of taking possession of a stolen vehicle.

Japan Customs carefully monitors vehicle and vehicle parts shipments and no shipment can sail until it has obtained their approval. Japan Customs has the power to demand detailed documentation pertaining to the ownership chain of vehicles, unpack containers, seize stock,charge fees and fines and pursue criminal penalties.

The vehicle I'm interested in has had its identification information removed. Is this OK?

No.Though this is rare, when it occurs it's normally associated with criminal activity such as theft and/or insurance fraud. If you're offered a vehicle like this you should refer it to the Japanese Embassy in your country for investigation.

Why was the vehicle registered with a different number to the manufacturer's original chassis number?

Sometimes vehicles in Japan will be registered with a number that is different to the manufacturer's original VIN or chassis number. It comes about from the owner of the vehicle not having a document from the vehicle manufacturer authenticating the identity of the vehicle. The most common cases of this are with imported vehicles. These may be either:

1. Personal Importers. Personal importers who import on a vehicle by vehicle basis.


2. Commercial Importers. Commercial importers, such as Yanase, who may use this procedure for low volume niche models.

How do I know that the vehicle I select hasn't been stolen?

If the vehicle is being exported whole we will get an Export Certificate for the vehicle. This means that the vehicle has been checked against the Japanese Ministry of Transport vehicle database to ensure it has not been reported as stolen.

Can I keep the Japanese number plates on my vehicle?

Sorry. This is not possible. The number plates need to be removed from the vehicle and surrendered to the vehicle registration office as part of the deregistration and export process. If this is not done the vehicle cannot be exported.

VEHICLE TRANSPORT

How are the vehicles transported to the port from their current location?

There are 4 main ways:

1. Driven. This is where a driver from one of the transport companies drives the vehicle from the auction house to the port. It is the least common method. It is mostly used for non-standard vehicles such as full-size trucks and motorhomes.


2. Single Vehicle Carrier. These are specialist trucks for transporting a single vehicle. They are usually equiped with a winch, so even non driveable vehicles can be transported. They are used for salvage grade and modified vehicles that can't be transported on multi vehicle carriers. Over long distances it is often the most expensive way to transport vehicles.


3. Multi Vehicle Carrier. This is where vehicles are loaded onto a two deck multi vehicle carrier. It can only be used for standard vehicles such as non-modified sedans, passenger vans and SUVs.


4. Ferry. Japan is a long skinny multi island country with the major population centres on the coast. It has an extensive vehicular ferry network to connect both the large and small islands. Transporting by ferry can sometimes be cheaper than road transport because of the tolls that apply to Japanese freeways. Vehicles are either driven or trucked to the ferry terminal and from the destination ferry terminal to the port it is being exported from. This is common for vehicles sourced in the southern island of Kyushu being carried by ferry to the ports of Kobe or Osaka when no voyages to the destination port are available locally.

Where's my vehicle now?

As soon as the vehicle is available for transport to port we arrange it. We don't get notified of the exact time of pickup from it's current location and the exact time of delivery to the port.

In the case of vehicles sourced from the wholesale vehicle auctions we book transport to port as soon as you're successful. The vehicle needs to be removed quickly in order to avoid penalty fees being applied by the auction house. As soon as the transport has been arranged the vehicle is marked "Vehicle at port" on the Shipping Status page for the shipment to indicate that transport has been booked and delivery to port has either occurred or in progress.

How much does domestic vehicle transport cost?

This will depend on where the vehicles are being transported from and to and whether they are standard or non-standard vehicles.

Standard Vehicles. These are typically sedans of normal height, without damage, without lowered ride heights, that start and are fully driveable on and off large multi vehicle carriers. Because most vehicles that are carried in Japan meet these criteria, multi-vehicle carriers with backloads between the major cities mean trucking rates are predictable and relatively cheap relative to the distance travelled.

VEHICLE SHIPPING

How much does it cost to ship a vehicle from Japan?

Could I be sent a different vehicle to the one I've bought?

No. This is impossible with our sourcing and shipping system. The vehicle is identified with it's chassis number from the time it's first put into your Bid Tracker through to documentation and shipping.

Verification includes vehicle photos, the auction house inspection report and invoice, the Export Certificate and shipping documentation which include the vehicle chassis number. We check multiple times with clients that the vehicle we're shipping is the actual vehicle that they bought as the vehicle moves through the documentation and shipping process.

You're protected by 4 levels of verification:

1. Vehicle Listing. If you're sourcing the vehicle from one of Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions the vehicle chassis number will be on the auction inspection sheet. In the case of Yahoo! Japan Auction or dealer listings you can usually view the last 3 digits of the chassis number in the vehicle information table.


2. Auction Invoice. If you're sourcing the vehicle from one of Japan's wholesale vehicle auctions the vehicle chassis number will also be on the auction house invoice. This is uploaded to your Client Portal and gives you confirmation of the vehicle's identity and the payment made to the auction house.


3. Vehicle Identity. We create a unique vehicle identity for each vehicle you give us a buy order for which includes the supplier code, model, colour and chassis number of the vehicle. This shows in your Bid Tracker and Trading Account.


4. Shipping Documentation. You'll also see the vehicle chassis number in the Invoice, Export Certificate, Bill of Lading and Freight Forwarder's account. The electronic versions are uploaded to your Client Portal and the originals are delivered to you.

Can I ship things inside a vehicle?

Yes if the vehicle is containerised. Please provide us with more details about what you'd like to do and we can suggest the best options to do it.

Shipping things inside the vehicle - such as parts - is normally not possible if the vehicle is being shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off. If vehicles arrive at the port laden with other things for shipping by Roll-On Roll-Off the shipping companies will usually refuse to ship the vehicle. Back in the days when it was allowed theft was a common problem since there was no way to make the things shipped inside the vehicle secure.

What does it cost to dispose of wheels and tyres when I ship by Roll-On Roll-Off?

It can vary between storage yards and the type of wheels but typically between Y500 and Y1,000 per wheel/tyre.

VEHICLE COSTS

What costs do I need to pay to import a vehicle from Japan?

There are 5 kinds of costs:

1. Supplier Payment. This will vary from vehicle to vehicle. If you're sourcing from auction it will also vary from auction house to auction house. We can put cost estimates in the pending section of your Trading Account.
   
   Click Here to learn more about Bid Tracker


2. Transport to Port. This is the cost of trucking the vehicle to the nearest port that has a service to your destination.
   
   Click Here to Estimate Trucking to Port


3. Freight Forwarding. These costs include sea freight, port, freight forwarding agent and Japanese Customs fees. If the vehicle is being containerised it also includes the cost of containerisation and container drayage. We can get estimates of these prior to you buying the vehicle.

Click Here to get Shipping Estimates


4. Service Fee. This is what you pay TS EXPORT^® for helping you source and export your vehicle.
   
   Click Here to learn more about Fees & Charges
   
   Click Here to learn how to Get Vehicles Free of Service Fees


5. Destination Charges. You also need to pay importing fees and charges and vehicle registration costs in the destination country. Your Customs Broker can assist you with estimating these.

Click Here to learn more about Customs Brokers

What vehicles have the lowest on-costs?

Normally vehicles sourced from private sellers on the Yahoo! Japan Auction will have the lowest on-costs.

I've been quoted a very low FOB cost on a vehicle by by another exporter. Is this genuine?

Carefully check the condition of the vehicle. Ask the exporter for the chassis number of the vehicle and a copy of the auction inspection report.

Why are vehicles often cheaper in Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is the most northern island in Japan. Vehiclular ferry services connect it to the main Japanese island of Honshu to the immediate south of Hokkaido.

If you're wanting vehicles for importing whole (not being dismantled for parts) the only auctions you may want to avoid are the auctions in Hokkaido, Japan's most northern island. Hokkaido has up to 5 months of snow each year and salt is used on the roads which results in body corrosion in vehicles.

Wholesale vehicle auctions in Hokkaido include Honda Hokkaido, JU Sapporo, Sapporo AA, SMAP Sapporo, TAA Hokkaido, USS Sapporo and Zero Car Selection Hokkaido. Salvage grade vehicles can also be sourced in Hokkaido through TAU and Hanamaru. Vehicles from both private sellers and dealers in Hokkaido can be sourced from the Yahoo! Japan Auction and from Hokkaido dealers from Goonet.

There are 3 main reasons why vehicles are often cheaper in Hokkaido:

1. Relatively Small Population. Hokkaido's population is only around 5.5 million people. This compares to a population of around 100 million people on Honshu, the main island to the immediate south of Hokkaido. This means that there is less demand for used vehicles than in the higher populated areas of Honshu.


2. Rust. Rust from use in snowy areas is most common in the northern island of Hokkaido which has snow for around 6 months of the year. the roads are salted to melt he snow. The long term combination of salt and water can induce rust in the underbody, suspension components, doors and panels. This makes Hokkaido vehicles risky if you're wanting a rust free vehicle to put on the road.


3. Domestic Transport. To be exported to most international destinations the vehicles need to be trucked or ferried to ports in Honshu, typically Tokyo or Yokohama. The cost of this is usually around Y40,000 for standard driveable cars, with higher costs for non-standard and non-driveable vehicles.

What's the Government Recycle Fee?

The Japanese Government introduced the Law for Recycling of End of Life Vehicles in July 2002. This required that a fee be paid to cover the costs that the government incurs in recycling once the vehicle is an end of life vehicle. This fee will often be charged by one seller to another during the life of the vehicle.

The amount of the fee is determined by a formula based on the estimated cost of recycling the vehicle and varies from vehicle to vehicle. For example, a vehicle with multiple airbags may be more expensive to recycle than a vehicle with no airbags. The fee is often quoted at the time of sale and we can also access the fee from logging into the system database and inputting the vehicle chassis number.

Wholesale vehicle auctions will normally automatically bill the fee to the buyer. In the case of the Yahoo! Japan Auction and dealer listings whether or not the fee is billed to the seller is case by case.

Why does the vehicle report say the Government Recycle Fee may not be payable?

The most likely explanation is that the vehicle was first sold before the Japanese Government's vehicle recycling legislation came into place. In cases like this the recycle fee would be paid by the company in Japan that dismantles the vehicle at the time of dismantling.

VEHICLE INSURANCE

Is the vehicle I buy in Japan insured while being trucked and stored at the port?

All of the major trucking companies that carry vehicles from their current location, such as the wholesale vehicle auctions hold insurance for the vehicles they carry. However, some small trucking companies - such as companies that may pick up vehicles from remote locations - may or may not have insurance for the vehicles they carry. The companies at the port that organise Roll-On Roll-Off shipping and containerisation usually hold insurance for the vehicles they store.

We then arrange marine insurance so that you have insurance coverage right up to the destination port.

VEHICLE STORAGE

Can you store cars?

Yes. Cars can be stored for a period of time free of charge. After this a storage fee may apply.

AUTOMOTIVE TERMS

What does this automotive term mean?

What does JDM mean?

Manufacturers will often vary their models by region or country. JDM is short for Japanese Domestic Market. It refers to models that are made specifically for the Japanese market. For motor vehicles these vehicles will often be designed to fit into particular tax categories and incorporate features required by Japanese design rules. These models will often differ from model varients available in other regions and countries.