Japan Car Auction: Buy Cars from Japanese Auctions Online

Japonic Trade gives you access to Japan car auctions from one online account. You see the original auction sheet for each lot, bid within your deposit limit, and we handle the export paperwork and shipping to your port.

Last updated: 11 November 2026 · By Japonic Trade

Key facts

Auction access

Major Japanese auction houses from one account

Auction days

Monday to Saturday; some holiday closures apply

Deposit

A refundable deposit unlocks bidding and sets your maximum bid

Vehicle information

Original auction sheet with condition grade, plus extra photos when available

Shipping

RO-RO or container shipping to your chosen port

Documents

Export certificate, Bill of Lading and invoice prepared for customs

Step by step

Create an account. Register for free and verify your email. You can browse Stock Cars right away.
Pay your deposit. Transfer the deposit shown on your Deposits page. It unlocks Japan Auctions and live bidding.
Choose a car. Browse lots, read the auction sheet and check the grade, mileage and photos. Our team can explain any mark you are unsure of.
Place your bid. Bid your realistic maximum before bidding closes. You can change a bid up to 5 times and cancel it before the auction ends.
Win and pay. If you win, an invoice covering all costs to your port is issued and is payable within 3 days.
Ship and import. We book RO-RO or container shipping and prepare the export documents. You clear customs and register the car in your country.

Frequently asked questions

How do Japanese car auctions work?

Dealers and approved buyers bid on cars that carry an auction sheet, an independent condition report. Each lot has a start price and a bid closing time; the highest valid bid wins. With Japonic Trade you bid through your account and your bid is placed on the live Japanese auction.

Can I buy from Japanese auctions from abroad?

Yes. Japonic Trade facilitates your purchase from the auction houses and handles export paperwork and shipping, so you can buy from abroad with one account.

What is an auction sheet?

An original condition report from the auction house covering exterior, interior and mechanical grading. It is a short, good-faith report, not a warranty. Read our Auction Guide to understand grades and damage codes before you bid.

Is the deposit refundable?

Yes, if you do not win a vehicle, minus any amount already applied to a purchase. If you win a vehicle and then decide not to buy it, the deposit is forfeited.

How long does shipping from Japan take?

It depends on your destination port and shipping method. Typically 4 to 10 weeks after loading; your contact will confirm an estimate for your route.

Can I also buy cars from Korea?

Yes. Cars from Korea are fixed-price listings from the Korean market, with no bidding. We ship them to Europe too, and the same customs and approval steps apply.

Figures on this page are indicative only. Rates, taxes and rules change often and may differ for your car, so none of them is guaranteed. Always confirm current duty, tax and approval requirements with your customs authority before you buy.

See what is available

Browse used cars from Japan in stock ready to ship, or learn how to read a Japanese auction sheet. Questions? Talk to us.