How to Buy a Car from Japan to Pakistan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a car from Japan and importing it into Pakistan is a popular choice among Pakistani buyers due to the high quality, reliability, and affordability of Japanese used vehicles. With proper planning and understanding of import regulations, you can successfully purchase and ship a car from Japan to Pakistan.

Here’s your complete guide on how to buy a car from Japan and import it into Pakistan.

1. Understand Pakistani Import Regulations

Before purchasing, ensure the car meets Pakistani rules:

  • Must be right-hand drive
  • Maximum age of 3 years old (from date of manufacture)
  • Must meet Euro-II emissions standards or higher
  • Requires import license or NTN (National Tax Number)
  • Must be registered with the Excise & Taxation Department

Always verify current rules with the Pakistan Customs Authority .

2. Choose a Trusted Japanese Auction or Exporter

Popular platforms include:

  • Aucnet
  • Goo-net Exchange
  • Cars247
  • Be FORWARD

Most Pakistani buyers use a local 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, Nissan, Honda, Mazda are popular in Pakistan)
  • Year (must be under 3 years old)
  • 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 Pakistan

Choose between:

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

Common Pakistani destination ports include:

  • Karachi Port
  • Port Qasim

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

7. Handle Import and Registration in Pakistan

Steps include:

  • Submit required documents:
    • Bill of sale
    • Bill of lading
    • Insurance certificate
    • Certificate of origin
  • Pay customs duty and taxes (can be 80–120% of CIF value)
  • Pass emissions and safety inspections
  • Register with the Excise & Taxation Department
  • Obtain registration plate and road tax

FAQs

Q: Can I import any car from Japan to Pakistan?
A: No. The car must be right-hand drive , not older than 3 years , and meet Euro-II or higher emissions standards .

Q: How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Pakistan?
A: Total cost includes:

  • ¥300,000–¥1,200,000 for the car
  • PKR 50,000–200,000 for auction and broker fees
  • PKR 300,000–500,000 for shipping and clearance
  • Import duties and taxes (often 80–120% of CIF value)

Q: Do I need an import license to bring a car from Japan to Pakistan?
A: Yes, unless you’re using a licensed import agent who can handle documentation and customs clearance.