Importing a car from Japan to EU
Costs, Fees, and Key Details
Find essential details about importing cars into the European Union (EU), including deposit amounts, arrival harbors, shipping costs, and VAT and harbor fees. Understanding these costs and procedures ensures a smooth import process. Learn about the required deposit for vehicle shipments, major European ports of arrival, detailed breakdowns of shipping expenses, and applicable taxes and duties
€1000, €2000, or €2500
Bremerhaven, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le Havre, Gdansk, Drammen, Göteborg
VAT and Customs Duty
Shipping companies charge between 160-200 EUR per cubic meter.
We can recommend a customs agent, or you can find one yourself. Agents vary by port.
What our clients say
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to buy a vehicle from Japonic Trade?
Yes, it is safe. Before the company was established, nearly 200 vehicles were delivered safely to their owners. After the company was founded, this number has multiplied.
How can I buy a vehicle from Japonic Trade?
Register for free and deposit the required amount to be able to place a bid on vehicles. After that, the entire auction is yours!
What happens to my deposit if I can't find the vehicle I want?
Your deposit will be refunded to the account you provided upon request. The necessary transfer fee will be deducted from your deposit.
I placed a bid but didn’t win the vehicle I wanted. What should I do? Do I need to deposit again?
You can bid again the next day, and you do not need to deposit again. Keep bidding until you get a vehicle.
I won the bid for a vehicle, but what happens if I decide not to buy it?
A €1,000 deduction will be made from your deposit. To purchase another vehicle, you will need to deposit again.
How do I know the exact condition of the vehicles? Are there any accidents or scratches?
We have prepared an Auction Guide for you, please review it carefully.
How can I know if there is a mechanical issue with the vehicle? What if I buy a faulty car?
We are here to ensure that you do not buy a faulty car. However, if you are a mechanic or buying it for parts, you must inform us so that we do not cancel the vehicle.
Do you ship vehicles to my country?
You can find out by contacting your country’s customs office or doing some online research.
How much tax will I have to pay in my country?
That is something you need to find out. We are based in Japan. For example, in Germany, the customs duty is 10%, and VAT is 19%.
Is it better to ship by container or RO-RO?
Container shipping can fit 3, 4, or 5 vehicles, depending on size. For example, the container cost to Germany is approximately $2,500. However, there is a small chance of scratches during container transport. Containers do not have insurance, whereas RO-RO insurance can be purchased for 5,000 JPY. The benefit of containers is that your vehicle is protected from rain, hail, and snow.
RO-RO shipping is not available for every country. Mediterranean and Black Sea countries must use container shipping. The transport fee is based on the vehicle’s volume, approximately $80 per cubic meter. Both options are available for Germany. The choice is yours.
Can I see the chassis numbers of the vehicles?
Yes, every vehicle’s auction sheet contains the chassis number. For Mercedes vehicles, you can enter the chassis number to check its origin and history.
How is the payment processed after I purchase a vehicle?
You must pay the invoice within 10 days. If the payment is delayed, your deposit will be forfeited, and the vehicle will be put up for sale again. It is advised not to buy a vehicle if you are relying on future payments or pending funds. This has happened before, and we don’t want you to face any issues.
How do I pick up the vehicle from the port? I have never done this before.
There are logistics companies at the ports that handle these processes. For example, in Germany, we typically send the necessary documents to Cross Trans, and they will call you when your vehicle arrives.