Japanese
Import Cars UK
How to import cheaply and reliably
Key points
Popularity and Regulations of Japanese Used Cars
in the UK Market
Reasons for the Popularity of Japanese Used Cars
Japanese used cars are highly attractive to UK consumers due to their high quality, low mileage, and right-hand drive configuration. In particular, Japan's strict vehicle inspection system, known as "Shaken," ensures that the cars maintain excellent safety and maintenance conditions, giving them a competitive edge in the UK market.
Overview of Import Regulations to the UK
When importing Japanese used cars into the UK, the following regulations must be followed:
- Required Documents: Import Declaration Form, Vehicle Registration Certificate, Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- Taxes and Fees: 10% import duty and 20% VAT (applied to the total of vehicle price, shipping cost, and import duty)
- Age Restrictions: Vehicles under 3 years old require an SVA/ESVA test. Vehicles between 3 and 10 years old require both an SVA/ESVA test and an MOT test. Vehicles over 10 years old require only an MOT test.
By adhering to these regulations, Japanese used cars can be smoothly imported into the UK.
Introduction
In recent years, Japanese used cars have been gaining popularity in the UK used car market. Their high quality, low mileage, and right-hand drive configuration make them highly attractive to UK consumers. Japanese used cars are well known for being in excellent condition, thanks to Japan’s stringent vehicle inspection system, known as "Shaken." This system rigorously checks vehicle safety and emission standards, ensuring that Japanese used cars are often in better condition compared to those available in the UK.
Japan's used car market is one of the largest in the world, offering a wide variety of vehicle models. Additionally, the rigorous inspection process provides detailed vehicle condition reports, giving buyers confidence and peace of mind.
In this guide, we will explain how UK used car dealers or individuals can participate in Japanese used car auctions through our services.
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 UK, the following documents and costs are required:
- Bill of Lading (B/L): A document that provides details of the shipment and confirms ownership.
- Export Deregistration Certificate: Proof that the vehicle has been deregistered in Japan.
- Commercial Invoice: A document specifying the vehicle’s price and specifications.
| 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.
UK Used Car Import Regulations
Vehicle Requirements
Right-Hand Drive Compatibility
- The UK allows both right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles, though RHD is standard.
Inspection Standards
- SVA/IVA Test: Japanese vehicles must pass the Single Vehicle Approval (SVA) or Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test to ensure they meet UK safety standards.
- MOT Test: After the first registration, vehicles older than 3 years must pass an annual Ministry of Transport (MOT) test to confirm roadworthiness.
Import Duties and Taxes
uty Rates
- Used cars: 10%
- Pickup trucks and commercial vehicles: 22%
VAT
- Standard VAT rate: 19%
- Additional ownership tax applies based on CO2 emissions for passenger cars or weight and axles for commercial vehicles.
Exemptions from Duty and VAT
- Returning to the UK:
- You’ve lived outside the UK for at least 1 year.
- You’ve owned and used the vehicle for at least 6 months before importing.
- You paid taxes when purchasing the vehicle.
- The vehicle will be for personal use for at least 1 year after importing.
- Re-importing a Previously Exported Vehicle:
- The vehicle was exported within the last 3 years.
- It has not been altered, except for necessary repairs.
- Non-EU Registered Vehicles:
- The importer is a non-EU resident.
- The vehicle is for personal use only and must be re-exported within 6 months.
- The vehicle cannot be sold or lent in the EU.
Registration Process
Inspection by Vehicle Age
- Under 3 years old: Requires SVA/ESVA test only.
- 3 to 10 years old: Requires SVA/ESVA test and MOT test.
- Over 10 years old: Requires MOT test only.
Registering the Vehicle
To register a vehicle in the UK, complete the V55/5 form and send it to the DVLA along with the following:
- Proof of name: Birth certificate, driving licence, or passport.
- Proof of address: Utility bill or council tax bill.
- British motor insurance certificate.
- Vehicle tax payment.
- Vehicle registration fee.
- Deregistration certificate (from Japan).
- MOT certificate.
- Customs clearance proof.
- SVA/IVA certificate (if applicable).
Shipping and Delivery
Shipping Timeline
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): 24–34 days.
Required Documentation
Prepare the following for a smooth import process:
- Bill of Lading (BL).
- Purchase Invoice: Confirms vehicle ownership.
- Deregistration Certificate: From Japan.
- Original Identification: Passport or driving licence.
- Address Proof: Utility bill or council tax statement.
- Motor Insurance: Issued by a UK company.
- Original and Translated Export Certificate.
- Customs clearance proof.
- Trader’s Unique Reference Number (TURN) for commercial importers.
- Vehicle tax payment receipt.
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 UK,
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 UK, sign up for a free membership or contact us through our inquiry form.
Phil Keenaghan
Sales
We are one of the industry's leading experts in exporting from Japan to UK.
Born in Ireland. Educated in Ireland. Married into Japan. Involved with both Japan car and equipment auctions and exporting for over 20 years.
| phil@providecars.com | |
| Phone | +81-798-75-1451 |
Conclusion
The demand for Japanese used cars in the UK market is expected to continue growing. Their high quality, low mileage, and right-hand drive configuration make them highly attractive to UK consumers. Thanks to Japan's strict vehicle inspection system (Shaken), these vehicles often have low mileage and are well-maintained, adding to their appeal.
By utilizing Provide Cars, UK used car dealers can smoothly participate in Japanese used car auctions, ensuring a seamless import process. Our services cover every step, from auction participation and bidding to export documentation and shipping arrangements.
The Japanese used car import business is highly competitive; however, success lies in offering high-quality vehicles at competitive prices.