How Much is It to Import a Car from Japan?
* Updated 4/25/2025
Importing a car from Japan is a popular option for many Americans, and for good reason. Japanese vehicles are known for their reliability, unique design, and excellent engineering. At SDC International Shipping, we specialize in the safe and efficient transportation of vehicles from Japan to the USA.
When importing your vehicle, we offer container shipping, which allows your car to be transported together with your household goods. This method ensures additional protection during transit and helps streamline your overall international move.
We deliver to all major U.S. ports, including:
- New York
- New Jersey
- Baltimore
- Newport News
- Savannah
- Jacksonville
- Galveston
- Long Beach (Los Angeles)
- Tacoma (Washington)
Due to the many variables involved in vehicle shipping—such as departure location, destination, container size, and timing—we recommend speaking directly with one of our relocation specialists to receive a personalized quote. Our team will walk you through the process and provide guidance every step of the way.
Import a Car in a Container
Shipping a car in a container is ideal because it provides maximum protection throughout the journey. Your vehicle will be securely fastened with straps and cables inside the container, helping to prevent scratches, dents, and other damage during loading and unloading. Even more importantly, it offers an added layer of security against tampering.
Unlike other shipping methods, your car won’t be driven up ramps. Instead, the container is lifted by crane directly onto the vessel and offloaded the same way when it reaches the destination port. This minimizes movement and handling of the vehicle, which greatly reduces risk.
At SDC International Shipping, we typically transport vehicles in 20ft containers, which is one of the most reliable and secure methods for shipping a car from Japan. In many cases, vehicles are shipped alongside household goods in the same container, making the process efficient and cost-effective.
For a personalized plan and accurate quote, please contact one of our relocation specialists. We’ll walk you through every step and help tailor the move to your specific needs.
Why Import a Car From Japan
In 2024, the United States imported approximately $219.5 billion worth of passenger vehicles, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. This volume encompassed around 7.68 million vehicles, underscoring the nation’s substantial demand for imported cars.
The leading countries exporting cars to the U.S. during that period were:
- Mexico: $49.98 billion (22.8%)
- Japan: $40.76 billion (18.6%)
- South Korea: $38.02 billion (17.3%)
- Canada: $28.40 billion (12.9%)
- Germany: $25.59 billion (11.7%)
Japan continues to be a significant player in the U.S. automotive market, maintaining its position as the second-largest exporter of cars to the United States.
Why Japanese Cars Are in High Demand
Japanese vehicles are renowned for their:
- Environmental Friendliness: Many models offer excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions.
- Affordability: Competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
- Reliability: Consistent performance and longevity.
- Innovative Design: Attractive exterior and interior features that appeal to a broad range of consumers.
These attributes contribute to the sustained popularity of Japanese cars among American consumers.
Importing Japanese Vehicles with SDC International Shipping
If you’re considering importing a vehicle from Japan, SDC International Shipping offers comprehensive services to facilitate the process. We specialize in transporting vehicles in 20-foot containers, often alongside household goods, ensuring maximum protection during transit. Our experienced team will guide you through every step, from documentation to delivery.
For a personalized plan and accurate quote, please contact one of our relocation specialists. We’re here to make your international vehicle importation as seamless as possible.
Cost of RORO Shipping
RORO shipping is known as the cheapest method of transporting a car. It is a kind of vessel when a car is rolled on the deck and then rolled off upon arrival in the destination port. For RORO shipping, it is essential to ensure that the vehicle is running to be easily driven onto the ship. RORO shipping is also a good and relatively reliable choice if you plan to move an inexpensive car.
Cost To Import a Car from Japan to the USA
The cost to import a car from Japan can range; it boils down to factors such as the model and the make of your vehicle, your current location, the closest departure port in Japan, your shipping method, and your final destination. On top of that, you should consider expenses for storage, cleaning, taxes, and duties.
However, more things will determine the costs to import the car from Japan. For example, you need to make sure that the vehicle is eligible for shipment to the US. In some cases, you will have to take extra actions to make your car qualified for shipment.
SDC International Shipping company will guide you through the process of verifying the required steps to import your car.
Import a Car From Japan to California
Cars shipped from Japan to California typically arrive at the ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland.
Shipping durations from ports like Kobe and Yokohama to Los Angeles or Long Beach can vary, depending on vessel schedules, port congestion, and customs processing.
In addition to transit time, you should also allow for document processing, customs clearance, and vehicle inspections before taking final delivery.
For the most accurate timeline and personalized shipping information, we recommend contacting one of our relocation specialists at SDC International Shipping. We’re here to make the process seamless and stress-free!
What to Know to Import a Car from Japan to the US
To import a vehicle from Japan into the U.S., it must comply with specific regulations:
- Age Requirement: The vehicle should be at least 25 years old to be exempt from certain safety and emissions standards.
- Documentation: Required documents include:
- Original bill of lading
- Bill of sale
- Foreign registration
- EPA Form 3520-1
- DOT Form HS-7
- CBP clearance certificateU.S. Customs and Border Protection+1U.S. Customs and Border Protection+1CBP Help+2U.S. Customs and Border Protection+2U.S. Customs and Border Protection+2
- Inspection: All imported vehicles are subject to inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ensure they are free from harmful pests and contaminants.
Duties and Tariffs:
As of April 3, 2025, the U.S. has implemented new tariffs on imported vehicles: U.S. Customs and Border Protection+4Reuters+4The Washington Post+4
- Automobiles: A 25% tariff is applied to imported cars, raising the total duty to 27.5% when combined with the existing 2.5% levy. Reuters+2The Washington Post+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2
- Trucks: A 25% tariff is imposed on imported trucks.
- Motorcycles: A 2.4% duty applies to imported motorcycles.
These tariffs are part of broader trade measures aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing and have significant implications for importers.U.S. Customs and Border Protection+4Wikipedia+4Reuters+4
Import Process:
Importing a vehicle involves several steps:
- Verification: Ensure the vehicle meets all eligibility criteria for importation.
- Documentation: Gather and complete all necessary forms and certificates.
- Shipping: Arrange for the vehicle to be shipped, typically in a 20-foot container, which can also accommodate household goods.
- Customs Clearance: Upon arrival, the vehicle will undergo inspection and clearance by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Assistance from SDC International Shipping:
Navigating the complexities of vehicle importation can be challenging. SDC International Shipping offers comprehensive services to assist with:
- Eligibility Verification: Confirming that your vehicle meets all import requirements.
- Documentation: Assisting with the preparation and submission of all necessary forms.
- Shipping Arrangements: Coordinating the safe and efficient transport of your vehicle and household goods.
- Customs Clearance: Facilitating the inspection and clearance process upon arrival in the U.S.
For personalized assistance and to obtain an accurate quote tailored to your specific situation, please contact one of our relocation specialists.
