How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Japan? A Complete Guide
The Cost to Ship a Car to Japan
If you’re asking, “how much does it cost to ship a car to Japan?” you’re likely planning a unique move. Shipping a vehicle from the UK to Japan is a specialised process with distinct costs and regulations. While prices vary, shipping a small car (e.g., a Ford Fiesta) typically starts from around £1,025. The ocean transit time is approximately 45 days, with vessels sailing 4 times a month. This guide explains the key factors, services, and essential Japanese import rules you need to know.
Why Do People Ship Cars to Japan?
Individuals export vehicles to Japan for several key reasons. The most common is relocation for work, where expatriates wish to take their familiar, UK-specification personal or family vehicle with them. Others ship specialist, luxury, or classic cars that are rare or highly desirable in the Japanese market. Finally, returning Japanese residents often bring back a vehicle purchased during their time in the UK.
Types of Shipping to Japan
Your choice of shipping method is the primary factor affecting both the cost and the level of protection for your vehicle.
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO): RORO is the standard, most cost-effective method. Your driveable car is loaded onto a dedicated car carrier vessel. It is suitable for most modern, running vehicles.
- Container Shipping: In container shipping, your vehicle is Yured inside a private 20ft or 40ft shipping container. This offers superior protection from the elements and is mandatory for non-running vehicles or highly recommended for classic, luxury, or modified cars. It is more expensive than RORO.
What Services Are You Paying For?
When you receive a quote for how much does it cost to ship a car to Japan, it typically includes several core services:
- Origin Port Charges: All UK handling and documentation fees at the departure port (e.g., Southampton).
- Ocean Freight: The cost of the sea voyage from the UK to a major Japanese port like Yokohama or Kobe.
- Basic Documentation: Preparation of core shipping documents like the Bill of Lading.
Important Add-On Services:
- UK Vehicle Collection Service: For maximum convenience, we offer our professional vehicle collection and delivery service as an optional add-on. This service collects your car from any UK address and transports it securely to the departure port. This is highly recommended to save you time and travel costs.
- Marine Insurance: Essential cover for your vehicle during the ocean transit, available as a separate policy.
Important Note: The following are typically not included in a UK shipping quote and must be arranged/paid for separately in Japan:
- Japanese import duty, consumption tax, and customs clearance fees.
- Destination port handling and delivery charges in Japan.
- Compliance modifications and inspections required by Japanese law.
What Are Japan’s Import Rules & Regulations
Japan has strict import regulations to ensure vehicle safety and environmental standards. Understanding these is crucial before you ship.
- Vehicle Inspection & Compliance: Most imported vehicles must pass a rigorous inspection at a Japanese Land Transport Office. UK-spec cars often require modifications to comply, including:
- Converting headlights to dip to the left.
- Fitting a speedometer displaying kilometres per hour (kph).
- Potentially updating rear fog lights and emissions systems.
- The “Parallel Import” Process: You will likely need to appoint a Japanese Customs Broker and an Authorised Inspection Agency to manage the clearance and modification process on your behalf. This is highly complex for non-residents.
- Duty & Taxes: Expect to pay Japanese import duty (typically 0% for most passenger cars under certain trade agreements, but verify) and a 10% Consumption Tax on the vehicle’s CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.
Essential Documents Required for Import
Your appointed Japanese agent will require the following original documents for customs clearance:
- Original Vehicle Title (V5C Logbook): Proof of ownership.
- Original Bill of Lading: The primary shipping document.
- Commercial Invoice: Detailing the vehicle’s sale price or market value.
- Export Certificate: Provided by the UK authorities.
- Copy of Your Passport & Japanese Visa/Residency Proof.
Critical Advice: Engaging a licensed Japanese import agent before shipping is not just recommended; it is essential. They will guide you on exact compliance needs and handle all local procedures.
Conclusion
In summary, while the ocean freight to ship a small car to Japan starts around £1,025, the total cost must include optional add-ons like UK collection, Japanese taxes, and mandatory compliance modifications. The process requires careful planning due to strict regulations.
For a precise, tailored quote answering “how much does it cost to ship a car to Japan?” for your specific vehicle, do not hesitate to contact us. At Ship Cars Ltd, we provide your car’s details and we will give you a clear UK-side quotation and expert guidance on the Japanese import process.
You may also want to read:
The Hidden Cost of Cheap Shipping
Car Shipping Costs Within The UK