Know the ropes: top tips for first-time Japanese car importers

Aussie car lovers are quickly learning the outrageous benefits of importing a vehicle from Japan. It is a highly cost-efficient option that provides access to a huge range of high quality imports with better prices and value.

What’s more, Japanese enthusiasts are renowned for taking great pride in their vehicles, ensuring you will be picking up a model that is in top quality condition, unlike many Aussie vehicles, which can be sadly left in a state of disrepair.

However, car shipping to Australia can be a complex game, and one that is difficult to get a handle on if you are just navigating your very first deal. The best thing you can do to ensure you get a great deal is to be prepared and do your research on the subject.

After all, chances are this won’t be your first time venturing into the exciting world of vehicle importing, so you might as well as get ahead of the curb and know the ropes before you buy that first Japanese import:

1. Research & research some more

You need to research the market - it’s as simple (and as complex) as that. Luckily, it is highly likely that you love your cars, and will be more than happy to conduct efficient research on the Japanese market and its current offerings.

You should always thoroughly read customer reviews on Google, checking to see if the supplier has had a few negative encounters with overseas buyers. If a vendor regularly receives complaints and negative feedback, look elsewhere, as there is no doubt you will experience some of the annoyances that were bequeathed upon other buyers.

2. Check for hidden costs & fees

You also need to think about the site’s general structure and whether it aligns with your buying goals. For example, it is important to check whether the indicated price is “FOB”. If it is, you can be sure that there will be no additional costs once you decide to pick it up. Finally, be sure to consider all the classic details, with engine capacity, year, size, make and model obviously being top priorities.

3. Ask everyone you know who knows about the industry

You should ask around the people you know who have experience dealing in car shipping to Australia. If you have friends who have imported vehicles from Japan, you can ask them all about their experience and how to get the best results from it. Be sure to ask questions that are specific to your needs and concerns, and browse online forums where people give their advice on the subject.

4. Don’t just buy a car because it’s cheap

This will likely ruin everything in the long run. The last thing you want is to purchase what could potentially be a tired, damaged vehicle just because it’s the cheaper option. As aforementioned, Japanese enthusiasts take great pride in their vehicles, but that doesn’t mean a dodgy one doesn’t occasionally find its way into the mix - don’t be the one who buys that dodgy old bomb!

5. Enlist an expert

Expert importers can, of course, take care of most of the process for you, including the annoying paperwork and anything else you would rather leave up to the pros. They can not only take care of all the logistics, but also provide stellar advice on models and whether they are truly right for import.

This simplifies what can otherwise be a rather tedious experience, ensuring you can sit back, relax and wait for your awesome new vehicle to arrive!