JDM Import Export Center
Your Complete Import Guide
Everything you need to know about importing Japanese vehicles worldwide. Step-by-step guides, document library, and cost calculator.
Import Process: Japan â USA
Vehicle Sourcing
Identify your target vehicle through Japanese auction houses (USS, TAA, JU) or dealer networks.
Auction Purchase
Bid on and purchase the vehicle through our licensed auction agents in Japan.
Inspection
Comprehensive pre-export inspection with detailed condition report, photos, and mechanical assessment.
Export Documents
Obtain export certificate, deregistration certificate, and all required Japanese export paperwork.
Shipping
Book RoRo or container shipping from Japan to destination port. Track your vehicle at sea.
Customs
Navigate customs clearance at the destination port with all required documentation.
Registration
Register the vehicle in your country with the appropriate transport authority.
Delivery
Final delivery of your vehicle to your specified location.
USA Import Law
The 25-Year Rule Explained
Under US law, vehicles that are 25 years old or older are exempt from DOT (Department of Transportation) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) compliance requirements. This makes importing classic JDM vehicles significantly easier and less expensive.
DOT Form HS-7
Declaration of Importation of Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Equipment. Box 1 (25-year exemption) applies to qualifying vehicles.
EPA Form 3520-1
Declaration for Importation of Motor Vehicles and Engines. Box 1 (25-year exemption) applies to qualifying vehicles.
Check Vehicle Eligibility
Document Library
Export Certificate
Official Japanese export certificate (čžļåščĻžææļ) required for all vehicle exports from Japan.
Deregistration Certificate
Proof that the vehicle has been deregistered from Japanese roads (æđæķįŧéēčĻžææļ).
Bill of Lading
Shipping contract and receipt of goods issued by the shipping company.
DOT Documents
US Department of Transportation compliance forms including HS-7 declaration.
EPA Documents
Environmental Protection Agency form 3520-1 for vehicle emissions compliance.
Customs Documents
CBP Form 7501 and other US Customs and Border Protection entry documents.
Insurance Documents
Marine cargo insurance certificate for the vehicle during ocean transit.
Country Import Guides
The 25-Year Rule
Vehicles 25+ years old are exempt from DOT and EPA compliance requirements under the "Show or Display" exemption, making them much easier to import.
Required Documents
DOT HS-7 Declaration, EPA Form 3520-1, Bill of Lading, Title/Export Certificate, CBP Form 7501.
Import Duty
Passenger vehicles: 2.5% of customs value. Trucks/SUVs: 25% (Chicken Tax). Motorcycles: 2.4%.
Timeline
Typically 8-16 weeks from purchase in Japan to delivery in the USA.
Import Cost Calculator
Calculate the total landed cost of your JDM import.