Importing

Import / Export Overview

Here is an example overview of the process involved in importing a car from Japan.

* Find an exporter of used cars from Japan.
* Choose the used Japanese car you want.
* Contact the exporter and offer to purchase the car from Japan.
* A Invoice will be issued by the Exporter.
* Sign and return the Invoice – you have agreed to purchase the car!
* Send payment for the car to the Exporter.
* Exporter will book the vehicle onto a ship from Japan and clear the car for shipping – known as FOB.
* A short while after the ship has sailed from Japan the Exporter will send by Special Air Post the shipping documents and car documents to you by courier.
* At this point you may be asked to pay the balance of any outstanding amount owed to the Exporter.
* Instruct a Shipping Agent who will handle the arrival of the car in the NZ and the clearance through customs.
* When the car arrives, the Shipping Agent will clear it through NZ Customs.
* Pay the shipping fee, Customs Duty, Shipping Agent and Tax.
* The car is released from Customs and available for collection.
* Register the car and pay the registration fee and prepare the WOF.
* Tax and Insure the car for use on the road.
* Drive and enjoy your imported Japanese Car!