Discover practical guides, insider advice, and shipping strategies on the Autos Japan blog to simplify your Japanese car and parts import journey.

How to Import Used Japanese Cars to UK

Are you in the UK, looking for a vehicle that truly stands out? Perhaps you're tired of the usual options and their steep price tags. Frustrated by limited choices, questionable histories, or cars that just do not spark joy? It is a common challenge for many in Britain seeking a unique, reliable, and high-specification vehicle without breaking the bank. But what if there was a better way to find your next car?

Unveiling the world of Japanese imports for UK buyers

Imagine owning a car that stands out on UK roads, boasts an immaculate service history, comes with features rarely seen locally, and offers exceptional value. This is the promise of importing a used vehicle directly from Japan. Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars are renowned globally for their:

• Pristine condition

  Vehicles in Japan are often meticulously maintained, driven fewer miles, and benefit from less corrosive road treatments, meaning minimal rust.

• Unique specifications

  Access exclusive models and higher trim levels not originally sold in the UK. Think luxurious Toyota Alphard or Nissan Elgrand MPVs, or high-performance JDM legends.

• Exceptional reliability

  Japanese engineering is synonymous with durability and dependable performance, ensuring a worry-free ownership experience.

• Outstanding value

  Even after factoring in shipping and import duties, many Japanese imports represent significant savings compared to similar UK-market alternatives.

Beyond the dealership a direct approach for UK imports

At autosjapan.com, we cut out the middlemen. Instead of buying from a UK dealer who has already imported and marked up the car, we connect you directly to the vast and dynamic Japanese car auctions and dealer networks. This direct access means more choice, better prices, and complete transparency about your vehicle's history and condition from day one. We are your eyes and ears in Japan, ensuring you get the very best.

Your import journey made simple and secure

We understand that importing a car to the UK might seem daunting. That is why autosjapan.com simplifies every stage, making your dream car a reality without the stress. Our comprehensive process includes:

1. Personalized vehicle sourcing

   Tell us what you are looking for. Our experts tap into Japan's extensive network to find vehicles that precisely match your criteria. We provide detailed auction sheets, inspection reports, and high-resolution photos so you can make an informed decision.

2. Expert inspection and purchase

   Once you approve a vehicle, we conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections to confirm its condition and history. We then handle all aspects of the purchase and deregistration in Japan.

3. Seamless shipping to your UK port

   We arrange efficient and secure transportation for your vehicle. You can choose between Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) for cost-effectiveness or container shipping for enhanced protection, especially for high-value or classic vehicles. We ship to all major UK ports including:
• Southampton
• Liverpool
• Tilbury
• Newcastle
• Bristol 

For added convenience, clients often have the flexibility to pay the freight charges upon the consignment's arrival in the UK (FOB), or if preferred, they can pay in advance in Japan (C&F, CIF).

1. UK customs and compliance guidance

   Upon arrival, we guide you through UK customs clearance, import duty, and VAT payments. We also assist with understanding and meeting UK road regulations, including Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) for vehicles under 10 years old, or the simpler MOT for older cars, ensuring your car is fully legal for UK roads.

2. DVLA registration assistance

   We support you through the final step of registering your imported vehicle with the DVLA, ensuring you receive your V5C registration certificate and UK number plates efficiently.

What drives you we import it for the UK

The variety of Japanese vehicles available for import to the UK is astounding. Whether you are after:

• Luxury MPVs

  Experience unmatched comfort and versatility with models like the 7-8 seater Toyota Alphard or Nissan Elgrand, perfect for larger families or executive transport.

• Performance icons

  Discover classic sports cars and turbocharged beasts, often with lower mileage and better original specifications than their UK counterparts.

• Unique everyday cars

  Find practical, well-engineered European models originally sold in Japan, often featuring petrol engines, automatic transmissions, and higher trims than those available in Britain.

Whatever your preference, the Japanese market offers a compelling alternative.

Transparent investment no hidden surprises

We believe in upfront pricing. While there are costs beyond the purchase price – including shipping, import duty (typically 10%), VAT (20% on the total value), and UK compliance fees – we provide a detailed breakdown so you know exactly what to expect. This transparency ensures that the exceptional value of your Japanese import remains clear, making it a wise investment for UK drivers.

Why autosjapan.com stands out as your UK import partner

Our decades of experience in the Japanese vehicle export market, combined with a dedicated focus on customer satisfaction, make us the ideal partner for your UK import. We are committed to:

• Unrivalled market access

  Bringing you the best vehicles from across Japan.

• Rigorous quality control

  ensures every car meets high standards before it leaves Japan.

• End-to-end support

  Guiding you from initial search to UK registration.

• Complete peace of mind

  Our transparent process eliminates guesswork and stress.

Your UK adventure awaits contact us today

Stop compromising on your next car. Unlock the world of high-quality, unique, and reliable Japanese used cars tailored for UK roads. The perfect vehicle is waiting for you.

Ready to import your dream car from Japan to the UK? Contact the expert team at autosjapan.com today and let us make your automotive aspirations a reality.