Buy and Export Cars and Delivery Trucks from Japan with Wigmore Trading

A car or delivery truck is only a useful import if it can enter the destination country, be registered for its intended use and be supported after delivery. Begin with the destination rules and operating requirement, then shortlist the vehicle. Do not buy first and ask about clearance afterwards.

Wigmore Trading can assess Japan vehicle sourcing and shipping enquiries. Send the make and model, acceptable year range, condition, quantity and destination. We will discuss the supply and logistics scope rather than promise that any vehicle offered in Japan is eligible for your country.

Match the vehicle to the job

For a passenger car, specify seating, transmission, fuel type and the intended use. For a delivery truck, provide payload, cargo dimensions, body type, daily route, road conditions and loading arrangements. A refrigerated delivery vehicle needs a separate assessment of the cooling system and temperature requirement.

Confirm steering configuration, emissions or age requirements, inspection and local registration rules with the responsible destination professionals. A familiar Japanese brand may be manufactured for several markets with different specifications.

Compare dealer and auction offers carefully

Ask who owns or controls the vehicle and who will contract with you. Obtain the chassis or vehicle identification, model code, mileage basis, service information and available condition report. If an auction sheet is supplied, confirm its source and translation. A grade alone does not establish mechanical condition.

Request clear photographs and a suitable independent inspection. Review evidence of repairs, corrosion, flood exposure, warning lights and missing equipment. Agree in writing which findings allow rejection, a price adjustment or repair before export.

Japanese export documents

Japan Customs provides vehicle export-clearance guidance and directs used-vehicle exporters to the relevant procedures. Ask the exporter to confirm the current registration or deregistration documentation and export process for the particular unit. Keep the vehicle identifiers consistent across the invoice, inspection and transport documents.

Truck bodies and load capability

Do not confuse gross vehicle weight, payload and the weight of a fitted body. Have the proposed specification checked for your work. A box body, tipper, refrigerated unit and flatbed solve different transport problems and may require different handling or approvals.

Confirm dimensions, axle arrangement, tyres, braking system and any hydraulic or auxiliary equipment with a qualified inspector. Photographs of a similar truck are not an acceptance record for the one you intend to buy.

Shipping and landed cost

Discuss the suitability of roll-on/roll-off or container transport with the carrier and forwarder. Non-running vehicles, added cargo and oversized bodies can change acceptance and charges. Specify the actual unit and cargo rather than requesting an average rate per truck.

Compare purchase price, inspection, origin handling, packing or securing, freight, insurance, destination clearance and delivery. Ask what is excluded. Confirm the named trade term, payment recipient and quote validity before authorising a purchase.

Support after arrival

Check parts availability, manuals and the workshop capability needed for the model. Agree the warranty or condition basis with the actual seller. A used-vehicle sale should not be presented as carrying a new-manufacturer warranty without evidence.

For electric or hybrid models, include battery condition and charging compatibility in the technical assessment. See the Japan battery sourcing guide when batteries or packs are supplied separately.

Request a vehicle sourcing assessment

Send your destination country, vehicle specification, quantity, price basis and required arrival window. Include any listing or inspection record you already have. Wigmore can assess sourcing and logistics options and identify the details needed for a firm quotation.

Related guides for your next step

• Buy and Export Products from Japan: Sourcing and Shipping with Wigmore Trading
• Automotive Parts from Japan: Engines, Transmissions, Accessories and Tyres
• Electric Batteries from Japan: Sourcing, Compatibility and Shipping Guide

Reviewed 29 October 2026. Images illustrate the topic and do not establish available stock, manufacturer appointment or an institutional partnership.