How to Import a Car from Japan
How to buy & import a used car from Japan with Shams International Trading Co. — simple, secure and efficient, whether you are a first-time buyer or a bulk importer.
Six steps from inquiry to your driveway
At Shams International Trading Co., we make it simple, secure, and efficient to purchase and export quality Japanese used vehicles to your country. This guide outlines everything you need to know.
Submit Inquiry
Contact us with your desired car make, model, budget, or purpose.
Get Vehicle Options & Quotation
We send you matching vehicles (with photos, specs, condition reports). You receive a full quotation including CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) to your port.
Confirm & Make Payment
Once you choose a vehicle, we send you a proforma invoice. You complete payment via bank wire transfer.
Vehicle Inspection & Documentation
We inspect the vehicle to ensure roadworthiness and compliance. Required export documents are prepared (Export Cert., B/L, Invoice, etc.).
Shipping & Tracking
Your vehicle is loaded onto the next available vessel. We share shipping details, vessel name, and tracking number.
Customs Clearance & Delivery
You receive the original documents by courier (DHL/FedEx). Use them to clear customs in your country and register the vehicle locally.
We handle the entire shipping process professionally
We provide the documents you need for importation. What’s included:
- Export Certificate (Vehicle Deregistration Document)
- Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Commercial Invoice
- Inspection Certificate (if required)
- Packing List (for multiple units)
Shipping options
Container shipping
Suitable for high-value vehicles or bulk shipments.
RoRo (roll-on/roll-off)
A cost-effective option for standard vehicles driven on and off the vessel.
Tips for a smooth import
A few things that help every import go faster.
Check your import rules
Vehicle age, engine size, emission standards and steering side differ by country. Tell us your destination first.
Choose your price term
Compare FOB, CNF and CIF so there are no surprises on freight and insurance.
Verify payment details
Confirm our bank details by phone or WhatsApp before sending any wire transfer.
Prefer to read more? See our step-by-step guide to buying a car from Japan or how to avoid export scams.
What do FOB, CIF and CNF mean?
FOB covers the vehicle and delivery to a Japanese port. CNF adds shipping to your destination port. CIF adds marine insurance on top of CNF. We help you choose the best option for your location.
How do I pay?
After you choose a vehicle we issue a proforma invoice. Payment is made by bank wire transfer. Always confirm bank details directly with our team by phone or WhatsApp before sending funds.
Which documents will I receive?
Export Certificate (vehicle deregistration document), Bill of Lading (B/L), Commercial Invoice, an Inspection Certificate if required for your country, and a Packing List for multiple units. Originals are couriered by DHL or FedEx.
How long does shipping take?
Transit time depends on your destination port, vessel schedule and shipping method. After you place an order we share the vessel name, schedule and a tracking number so you can follow your vehicle.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) is cost-effective for standard vehicles. Container shipping suits high-value vehicles, personal effects and bulk shipments. Read our RoRo vs container guide.
Ready to import your next vehicle from Japan?
Send us your preferred make, model and budget. We reply with matching vehicles, auction sheets and a full CIF quotation.