Import a Vehicle from Japan
Importing a Vehicle from Japan to Australia
Japan is the most popular source country for vehicle imports to Australia, offering a wide range of quality used vehicles through its well-regulated auction system.
Why Import from Japan?
Japan's domestic vehicle market produces high-quality, well-maintained vehicles that are often unavailable in Australia. Key advantages include:
- Low mileage — Japanese domestic vehicles typically have low odometer readings due to shorter average driving distances
- Excellent condition — strict Japanese vehicle inspection (Shaken) requirements mean vehicles are well-maintained
- Wide variety — access to JDM-exclusive models not sold in Australia
- Competitive pricing — especially for older or rare models
Japanese Vehicle Auction System
Most Japanese imports are sourced through vehicle auction houses. The major auction groups include:
| Auction House | Notes |
|---|---|
| USS (Used Car System) | Largest auction network in Japan |
| TAA (Toyota Auto Auction) | Toyota group vehicles |
| JAA (Japan Auto Auction) | Wide variety |
| HAA Kobe | Popular for exports |
| Aucnet | Online auction platform |
Vehicles are graded on a standardised scale (typically 1–5, with 4.5–5 being near-perfect condition).
Import Pathways for Japanese Vehicles
Personal Import Scheme
- Vehicle must be at least 25 years old at time of import
- Must have been owned and used overseas for at least 12 months
- One vehicle per person per 2-year period
Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS)
- Allows import of vehicles less than 25 years old
- Vehicle must be listed on the SEVS Register
- Must be modified to comply with Australian Design Rules by a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW)
RAW (Registered Automotive Workshop)
- Workshops registered with DITRDCA to modify and certify vehicles for compliance
- Required for SEVS imports
Shipping from Japan
Vehicles are typically shipped via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessels or in containers. Major shipping routes from Japan to Perth (Fremantle) take approximately 14–21 days.
Key shipping considerations:
- Obtain a Bill of Lading from the shipping company
- Ensure the vehicle is clean (no soil, plant material, or pests) before shipping for biosecurity compliance
- Arrange marine insurance for transit
Costs to Budget For
| Cost Item | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Vehicle purchase price | Varies |
| Japanese export fees & de-registration | ¥30,000–¥80,000 |
| International shipping (Japan → Fremantle) | AUD $1,500–$3,500 |
| Customs duty (5% of customs value) | Varies |
| GST (10% of customs value + duty) | Varies |
| Biosecurity inspection | AUD $200–$500 |
| AVV inspection (WAAVV) | Contact us |
| Roadworthy Certificate | AUD $150–$300 |
| WA Registration | Varies by vehicle value |
WAAVV — Your Perth AVV Partner
WAAVV is a Western Australia Authorised Vehicle Verifier (AVV) and ROVER Partner. We specialise in inspecting and verifying Japanese imports for compliance with Australian Design Rules.