Are you planning to export a vehicle to Japan? Then reliable information on customs regulations japan car and the necessary paperwork is worth its weight in gold. This guide explains step by step which taxes are due, which documents Japan Customs requires, how to register electronically (NACCS), what happens during the technical check (shaking) and how you can organise the process stress-free with a checklist. We also provide links to official bodies and helpful resources - and to in-depth content from ODS Orient.
A car export to Japan roughly consists of five phases:
RoRo or container? Vehicles travelling to Japan are mostly RoRo (roll-on/roll-off). You can easily check timetables: RoRo timetables.
In order for your car to be legally imported and later registered in Japan, you need to know the following components:
Japan publishes its tariff rates in the Japan's Tariff Schedule. For passenger cars (HS 8703), the MFN duty rate is traditionally 0 % (duty-free). Always check the current tariff list to confirm the current status. Customs Japan+1
On almost all imports, Japan levies the Consumption tax of 10 % (Calculation basis: customs value + customs duty + certain excise duties, if applicable). This tax is payable in addition to any other vehicle-related charges. Customs Japan
In addition to import clearance, registration-related taxes are incurred, including
The exact survey and rates depend on the registration and vehicle; the specifications of the ministries/prefectures are decisive. See official information pages (e.g. Ministry of the Environment, prefectures). env.go.jp+2pref.gifu.lg.jp+2
Important: Specific prices are beyond the scope of this document, as charges vary depending on the vehicle, region and time. Ask for a personalised quote that takes your vehicle data and destination prefecture into account.
For the import a Import declaration (Customs Form C-5020) with the usual commercial documents (B/L, invoice, packing list, etc.). In Japan, most of the processing takes place electronically via NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System). Customs Japan+1
Specific for vehicles: You need the Vehicle Customs Clearance Certificate (Customs Form C-8050). Without this certificate, authorisation with the Land Transport Bureau is not possible. Customs Japan
The import is followed by technical inspection (shaking) and registration. Responsible: MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).
Note: Whether left or right-hand drive - the decisive factor is conformity with Japanese regulations; details can be found in the individual approval and MLIT guidelines.
In the case of temporary importation (e.g. travelling, relocation), clearance can be carried out via the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) take place. In Japan, the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) responsible for authenticating the carnet before customs clearance. Temporary use for up to one year is possible. JAF
Japan has a legally regulated end-of-life vehicle recycling system. When purchasing a vehicle, a Recycling fee is levied. If a vehicle is exported - provided that the fee has already been paid - a Reimbursement requested become. meti.go.jp
Table (alt text): Matrix with mandatory documents for Japanese import (Japan Customs) and subsequent registration (MLIT), plus information on procurement.
| Document | For what? | Who issues it? | Timing | Practical hints |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Customs value/tax base | Seller | Before shipment | Specify exact VIN, make, model, year of manufacture |
| Packing list | Quantity/parts list specification | Seller/forwarder | Before shipment | List accessories & spare parts |
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | Transport document | Shipping company/forwarder | After loading | Data consistent with invoice |
| Import declaration C-5020 | Import clearance | Importer/Customs Broker | On arrival | Submit electronically via NACCS |
| C-8050 Clearance Cert. | Admission requirement | Japan Customs | After import release | Check VIN, ensure conformity |
| Proof of export | Proof of ownership | Admission office | Before export | Enclose translation if necessary |
| Technical documentation | Shake/individual removal | Manufacturer/test centre | After import | Observe MLIT specifications |
| Insurance | Authorisation/Traffic | Insurer | Before authorisation | JCI/liability required |
Deepening: Which export/customs documents do you need before departure? → Customs documents for RoRo transport
Illustration: "Flowchart car export to Japan (enquiry → booking → customs clearance → C-8050 → shaking → registration)"
Alt-Text: "Flowchart of car exports to Japan with customs and document stations."
For passenger cars (HS 8703) the MFN duty rate is 0 % in practice. Check the current Japanese customs tariff list. Customs Japan
The Consumption tax of 10 % on imports (customs value + customs duty + excise duty, if applicable).
Import declaration (C-5020) with commercial documents and additionally C-8050 for subsequent authorisation.
Japan's electronic customs system for import clearance. Import declarations and C-forms are processed via NACCS. naccs.jp
Yes, the Shaken test is a prerequisite for road authorisation. Responsible: MLIT.
About the Carnet de Passages (CPD). Responsible: JAF (Japan Automobile Federation). Period of use: max. 1 year.
Yes, if you have already paid the recycling fee, you can apply for a refund at Export. meti.go.jp
Who customs regulations japan car and prepare your documents properly saves time and money. Check the import tariff (often duty-free), calculate the Consumption tax (10 %) and note Registration-related taxes during the shake/approval phase. Organise C-forms (C-5020, C-8050) in good time - ideally via NACCS - and plan the Shaken/MLIT requirements realistically. For specific prices, you need a customised quote. Start with the Timetable check or find out more in our article: Customs documents for RoRo transport.
Whether you are a private customer or a company - anyone planning a shipment to Japan wants to know three things above all: What does it cost? Which routes make sense? What customs rules apply? In this guide you will get a compact but complete overview of cost factors, proven sea routes (RoRo & container), Japanese import regulations and practical checklists. We also provide links to official bodies and [...]
Are you planning to export a vehicle to Japan? Then reliable information on customs regulations for Japanese cars and the necessary documents is worth its weight in gold. This guide explains step by step which taxes apply, which documents Japan Customs requires, how the registration process works electronically (NACCS), what happens during the technical check (shaking) and how you can organise the process with a [...]
