Japanese
Import Cars Germany
How to import
cheaply and reliably
Key points
Popularity and Regulations of Japanese Used Cars
in the Germany
The popularity of Japanese used cars in Germany is due to their high quality and reliability, with engine durability, fuel efficiency, and low failure rates being particularly valued. Manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, Subaru, and Mazda are highly regarded, and in addition, Japanese used cars are often low-mileage and well-maintained thanks to strict vehicle inspection regulations and mandatory periodic maintenance, making them highly sought after.
Steering Wheel:
- Left-hand drive (LHD) required in principle.
- Right-hand drive (RHD) allowed but requires TÜV inspection & individual approval.
Model Year:
- No restrictions.
Taxes:
- Import duty: 12% of CIF value.
- VAT: 16% of CIF value (including customs duty).
- Vehicle tax (Kfz-Steuer) applies immediately after registration.
Inspection:
- TÜV (Fahrzeug-Hauptuntersuchung) required for registration.
- Technical inspection certificate needed.
Drive a Japanese Car in Germany with Used Imports!
In Japan, vehicles drive on the left side of the road, whereas in Germany and other EU countries, right-hand traffic is the standard. As a result, right-hand drive vehicles, which are common in Japan, are generally not considered ideal for driving in right-hand traffic countries. However, for sports car enthusiasts worldwide, the opportunity to drive Japan’s high-performance sports cars often outweighs the inconvenience of differing traffic regulations. For some passionate fans, driving a right-hand drive vehicle in a right-hand traffic country is not a significant issue.
Additionally, Japanese used car auctions offer not only right-hand drive vehicles but also a considerable number of left-hand drive models. In particular, there are many low-mileage and reasonably priced vehicles available, including foreign-brand cars not originally sold in Japan and reverse-imported models manufactured by Japanese automakers for overseas markets. For international buyers seeking these unique vehicles, Japanese auctions represent an attractive and valuable option.
Trivia:
Japan adopted left-hand traffic because samurai used to carry swords, and walking on the left side prevented their scabbards from clashing with each other.
At our company, we provide expert guidance and support for customers interested in purchasing JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicles or smoothly acquiring reverse-imported cars. We offer a comprehensive service, from sourcing vehicles at Japanese auctions to handling exports overseas, ensuring a seamless and secure purchasing experience. Our goal is to help you obtain the ideal vehicle with ease and confidence.
The quality of Japanese used cars is recognized worldwide.
Japanese used vehicles are highly regarded globally for their exceptional quality, reliability, and affordability. This reputation stems from Japan’s unique automotive culture and well-developed infrastructure.
1. The Vehicle Inspection System (Shaken)
Japan's mandatory vehicle inspection system, known as shaken, ensures that cars are well-maintained. Inspections are conducted every two years (three years for new cars), compelling owners to keep their vehicles in excellent condition. This meticulous maintenance culture significantly enhances the quality of JDM cars available in Japan car auctions.
Click here for more details about the vehicle inspection system (Shaken) > Japanese Vehicle Inspection (Shaken)
2. Exceptionally Good Road Conditions
Japan's smooth and well-maintained roads reduce wear and tear on vehicles. This, combined with the careful handling by Japanese owners, ensures that JDM imports retain their value and performance.
3. Affordable Prices of JDM Cars
Japanese used cars are among the most affordable in the world due to:
- Superior Cost Performance: The high standards of maintenance and road quality in Japan make JDM cars cost-effective.
- Low Market Prices: Frequent car replacements and depreciation create opportunities for buyers in Japan car auctions to acquire high-quality vehicles at competitive prices.
4. Careful Handling of Vehicles
Japanese car owners are known for treating their vehicles with care. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure that JDM imports often arrive in pristine condition, even after years of use.
Importing a used car sounds difficult…
Surprisingly, it’s easier than you think! Through Provide Cars, we will clearly explain how residents in Germany can import used cars from Japan with ease.
How to Participate in Japanese Used Car Auctions
Japanese used car auctions operate as a business-to-business (B2B) platform, meaning that individuals and overseas dealers cannot participate directly. Instead, they must participate through an export agent.
Role and Services of Provide Cars
Our company handles the entire purchasing process, including auction participation, bidding, export procedures, and shipping. Our services include:
- Auction Bidding: We help you search for vehicles that meet your requirements and place bids on your behalf based on your requested bid amount.
- Vehicle Inspection: We verify the condition of auctioned vehicles using auction sheets and images. If necessary, we can arrange a pre-inspection (Shitami) service.
- Domestic Transportation Arrangement: We coordinate the transportation of purchased vehicles to the nearest port.
- Export Documentation: We prepare all necessary export documents required for shipping.
- Shipping Arrangement: We arrange RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) or container shipping to the UK.
Auction Participation Process
The process to participate in Japanese used car auctions is as follows:
Contract Agreement
Customer
Register for a free membership (Note 1).
Vehicle Selection
Customer
Search for vehicles that interest you.
Bidding
Provide Cars
Inform us of your maximum bid amount, and we will bid on your behalf (Note 2).
Successful Purchase
Provide Cars
If the bid is successful, the purchase process will begin (Note 3).
Payment
Customer
You will be required to pay the vehicle cost, service fees, and domestic transportation costs.
Export Procedures
Provide Cars
We will handle the preparation of export documents and logistics.。
Shipping: Vehicles will be shipped to the UK via RORO or container shipping.
Important Notes:
- (Note 1) Please read our terms and conditions carefully before registering. [Click here to view the terms.]
- (Note 2) A security deposit is required before bidding. [Click here for details].
- (Note 3) Payment must be made within three days as a general rule. [Click here for details].
Required Documents and Costs
When importing Japanese used cars into the Germany, the following documents and costs are required:
- Bill of Lading
- Export Deregistration Certificate
(proof of deregistration in Japan) - Commercial Invoice
- Copy of Passport or Other Identification Document
- Proof of Residence Registration (Meldebescheinigung)
Certificate of residence in Germany - Copy of Proof of Ownership and Vehicle Registration Certificate
(such as Japan’s Shaken certificate) - Proof of Ownership – Sales Contract or Commercial Invoice
(required if the vehicle has been owned for less than 6 months) - Insurance Certificate
Vehicle insurance certificate from the country of origin - Export Permit
Official export authorization from Japan - Original Vehicle Registration Documents
- Third-Party Liability Insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)
Valid insurance proof at the time of customs clearance - Proof that the Vehicle Has Passed Safety and Emissions Tests –
◯Technical Inspection Certificate (TÜV Certificate): Proof that the vehicle meets German safety and emissions regulations
◯Certificate of Conformity (COC): Proof of compliance with EU standards (if required)
| Cost Items | Company A (Yen) | Provide Cars (Yen) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumption Tax (10%) | Charged | Free | The 10% consumption tax imposed by the Japanese government when purchasing a vehicle will not be charged to the customer. |
| Recycling Fee | Free | Free | The recycling fee imposed by the Japanese government at the time of vehicle purchase will not be charged to the customer. |
| Bidding Fee | 1,000~2,000 per vehicle | Free | As we are members of all auction houses, we do not charge any bidding fees. |
| Domestic Transport Cost | Variable or 80,000 flat fee | 5,500 to 60,000 | Transport costs from the auction venue to the nearest port will apply. If bidding at an auction with high transport costs, we will inform you. |
| Vehicle Deregistration & Export Application | Charged 10,000 to 20,000 | Free | The customs clearance fee is included in our service fee. |
| Customs Clearance Fee | Charged | Free | The customs clearance fee is included in our service fee. |
| Sea Freight | Charged | Charged | We offer both RORO and container shipping options, recommending the best and most affordable choices. Contact us for current shipping rates. |
| Service Fee | 100,000+5%～ | 80,000 | If 10 or more cars are purchased monthly and payment is completed within 3 days. |
| 80,000+2％ | If 10 or more cars are purchased monthly, payment is completed within 3 days, and the vehicle price exceeds 1 million yen. | ||
| 90,000+5% | If 1-2 cars are purchased throughout the year. | ||
| 400,000+5% | If special handling is required for the vehicle (limited to one vehicle per month). |
For more detailed information, please refer to the "Service and Commission" section.
Auction Sheet Grading
The auction sheet provides a grading system that indicates the condition of the vehicle. The grades range from S (like new) to R (repaired/accident history), with evaluations for both interior and exterior conditions. The main grading criteria are as follows (please note that there may be slight variations depending on the auction house):
| Grade | Mileage | Interior Rating | Condition of Exterior & Interior |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | Less than 10,000 km | A | Virtually flawless, no repairs needed. |
| 6 | Less than 30,000 km | A | Bascially flawless, no repairs required. |
| 5 | Less than 50,000 km Less than 100,000 km | A | Minor unnoticeable scratches or dents, no repair needed, no signs of part replacements. |
| 4.5 | Less than 150,000 km | B or higher | Minimal repairs required, close to grade 5 condition. |
| 4 | Less than 150,000 km | C or higher | Noticeable scratches, dents, rust, burns, or tears requiring repairs. |
| 3.5 | - | D or higher | Several areas requiring repairs, significant burns, or tears present. |
| 3 | - | E | Extensive repairs, part replacements, or upholstery work needed. |
| 2 | - | - | Low market value, poor condition. |
| 1 | - | - | Vehicles with flood or fire extinguisher damage. |
| R | - | - | Vehicles with accident history and repairs. |
| X | - | - | Accident-damaged vehicles, replicas, or specialty vehicles. |
※Click here for more details on grades and defect symbols.[Click here for details]
Types of Auctions
Japan has a variety of used car auctions. The main auctions are as follows:
- USS: The largest auction company in Japan, with auction venues nationwide and a wide variety of vehicles available.
- TAA (Toyota Auto Auction): An auction company affiliated with Toyota Motor Corporation, offering a wide range of vehicles, primarily Toyota models.
- JU (Japan Used Car Dealers Association): An auction company operated by a network of used car dealers across Japan, listing vehicles from dealers nationwide.
For more information about auctions, please check our dedicated auction page.
Payment Terms
A security deposit is required before bidding. If the value of the car is less than 1,000,000 JPY, the minimum deposit is 100,000 JPY, or 10% of the car's value, whichever is higher.
For example, if you wish to bid up to 2,000,000 JPY, you need to send a deposit of 200,000 JPY. The deposit is refundable.
After a successful bid, the vehicle cost must be paid within three days, as a general rule.
Accepted payment methods: PayPal, Bank, transfer Wise
Important Points and Risks
When participating in Japanese used car auctions, please consider the following points:
- Vehicle Condition:
- As the listed vehicles are used, carefully review the auction sheet and provided photos to assess their condition.
- Our agents can assist in evaluating the condition of the vehicles.
- Costs:
- In addition to the vehicle price, domestic transportation costs will apply.
- Prices may vary depending on the shipping terms (CIF, FOB). Please use the cost calculator on the bid page or consult with our agents for a detailed cost estimate.
- Hidden Damages:
- There may be damages not listed on the auction sheet. It is important to consider potential hidden defects.
- Cancellations:
- In principle, cancellations are not allowed after a successful bid.
Germany Used Car Import Regulations
To register and use a vehicle in Germany, it must comply with the EU-wide "Vehicles Type-Approval" regulations.
This system ensures that vehicles meet safety, environmental, and manufacturing standards, certified by the relevant authorities in each EU country. The type approval for four-wheeled vehicles within the EU is based on EU Regulation 2018/858, and in Germany, individual approval must be obtained.
Steering Wheel
In principle, only left-hand drive vehicles are allowed.
Right-hand drive vehicles can still be imported, but they require individual approval and a TÜV inspection.
Model Year
No restrictions
Safety, Environmental, and Manufacturing Standards
Compliant with EU Regulation 2018/858
Inspection
- A technical inspection (Fahrzeug-Hauptuntersuchung, commonly known as "TÜV") is required.
- A technical inspection certificate is necessary when registering the vehicle domestically.
Required Documents for Importing a Vehicle
- Bill of Lading
- Export Deregistration Certificate
(proof of deregistration in Japan) - Commercial Invoice
- Copy of Passport or Other Identification Document
- Proof of Residence Registration (Meldebescheinigung)
Certificate of residence in Germany - Copy of Proof of Ownership and Vehicle Registration Certificate
(such as Japan’s Shaken certificate) - Proof of Ownership – Sales Contract or Commercial Invoice
(required if the vehicle has been owned for less than 6 months) - Insurance Certificate
Vehicle insurance certificate from the country of origin - Export Permit
Official export authorization from Japan - Original Vehicle Registration Documents
- Third-Party Liability Insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)
Valid insurance proof at the time of customs clearance - Proof that the Vehicle Has Passed Safety and Emissions Tests –
◯Technical Inspection Certificate (TÜV Certificate): Proof that the vehicle meets German safety and emissions regulations
◯Certificate of Conformity (COC): Proof of compliance with EU standards (if required)
Tax Exemption Conditions
If the following conditions are met, tax exemption may be granted:
- The importer must have resided outside the European Union (EU) for at least one year.
- The vehicle must have been purchased outside the EU and driven for at least six months before importation.
- The importer must be a registered resident of Germany.
- The vehicle is intended solely for personal use.
- The importer must keep the vehicle for at least one year after importation.
For temporary importation (up to a maximum of 12 months), the imported vehicle may be driven with its original national license plates and registration. However, the registration documents must be translated into German. If staying for a longer period, the vehicle must be registered at the local Kfz-Zulassungsstelle (Vehicle Registration Office).
Documents Required for Vehicle Registration
To register a vehicle in Germany, the following documents are required:
- Proof of identity and residence, such as a passport or residence registration certificate.
- Proof of ownership, e.g., Bill of Lading (B/L) or Commercial Invoice.
- Customs clearance certificate (Zollbescheinigung) stating the payment or exemption of relevant taxes and duties (Unbedenklichkeitsbescheinigung).
- Proof of liability insurance.
- TÜV Certificate.
- Insurance verification.
Taxation in Germany
- Import duties and taxes on used cars are 12% of the CIF value, while VAT (Value Added Tax) is 16% of the CIF value, including customs duties.
- All registered vehicles in Germany are subject to a special vehicle tax (Kfz-Steuer). The first payment must be made immediately after vehicle registration.
Regulations and restrictions are subject to changes due to legal amendments.
For the latest updates on current regulations, please contact us.
If you are considering importing a used car from Japan to Germany,
We have been actively working as a leading proxy exporter for Japanese used car auctions since 1997. If you are considering importing a used car from Japan to Germany, sign up for a free membership or contact us through our inquiry form.
Yevgeniy (Eugene) Potapov
Sales
We are one of the industry's leading experts in exporting from Japan to Germany.
Born in Russia. Educated in New Zealand. Living in Japan for 20 years.
With over 20 years of experience in purchasing from Japanese car auctions, specializing in exports to the USA, Russia, Germany, New Zealand, and other international markets.
| eugene@providecars.com | |
| Phone | +81-90-5963-9040 |
