How to buy car from Japan to USA

How to Buy a Car from Japan and Import It to the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a car from Japan and importing it into the United States has become increasingly popular among car enthusiasts, collectors, and everyday drivers. Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars are known for their exceptional build quality, low mileage, and unique models not available in the U.S.

However, importing a vehicle from Japan requires careful planning and compliance with U.S. regulations. Here’s your complete guide on how to buy a car from Japan and legally import it into the United States.

1. Understand U.S. Import Regulations

Before purchasing, ensure the car meets U.S. requirements:

Must be at least 25 years old (classic car exemption) or fully compliant with EPA and DOT standards
Must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)
Requires import declaration with CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
Must pass EPA and DOT inspections
Right-hand drive vehicles must comply with FMVSS or be modified accordingly

Check the official NHTSA FMVSS guide and EPA import rules for full details.

2. Choose a Reputable Japanese Auction or Exporter

Popular platforms include:

Aucnet
Goo-net Exchange
Cars247
Be FORWARD

Most U.S. buyers use a U.S.-based broker or export agent who can bid, inspect, and handle logistics on their behalf.

3. Search for Suitable Vehicles

Use filters like:

Make/model (Toyota Supra, Nissan Skyline, Mazda RX-7, Subaru WRX are popular)
Year (older than 25 years for easier import)
Mileage (below 50,000 km preferred)
Shaken expiration date (ensures recent inspection)
Body and mechanical condition reports

Look for auction grades of 3.5 or higher for better quality.

4. Review Inspection Reports and Photos

Each listing includes:

High-resolution photos
Damage grade (Body/Paint/Mechanical)
Engine and transmission status
Maintenance history
Shaken test results

Request a video walk-through or pre-purchase inspection (PPI) if unsure about the car’s condition.

5. Place a Bid or Purchase Directly

If using a broker:

Set your maximum bid
Confirm payment methods (bank transfer, PayPal, etc.)
Ensure all fees are transparent (auction, broker, shipping)

Winning bidders must pay promptly to proceed with export.

6. Arrange Shipping to the U.S.

Choose between:

Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) – Most cost-effective method
Container shipping – Better for luxury or vintage cars

Common U.S. destination ports include:

Los Angeles
Newark
Houston
Baltimore

Select port-to-port or door-to-door delivery depending on your needs.

7. Handle Import and Registration in the U.S.

Steps include:

Submit HS-7 form to CBP
Provide:
- Bill of sale
- Bill of lading
- EPA Form 3520-1
- DOT Form HS-7
Pay CBP processing fee ($850)
Pass EPA and DOT inspections
Register with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Classic cars over 25 years old usually qualify for simplified import rules.

FAQs

Q: Can I legally drive a right-hand drive car from Japan in the U.S.?
A: Yes, as long as it complies with DOT/FMVSS standards or qualifies under the 25-year exemption rule .

Q: How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to the U.S.?
A: Total cost includes: