How do I import a car from Japan to the UK?

We handle everything—from auction bidding on your behalf, carrying out inspections before shipping, preferred method of shipping, dealing with the UK customs, and DVLA registration of the vehicle.

Can I choose the car I want from the auction?

Yes. We give you access to Japan’s top auction houses and help you bid with confidence. If you can’t see a car you would like, please get in touch with us on the contact page. We will set up a one-to-one call to get the details of what you need.

What’s included in the auction sheet translation?

We break down grading, mileage, condition notes, and seller comments so you know exactly what you're bidding on.

Do you help with DVLA registration?

Yes—we guide you through NOVA submission, MOT prep, and DVLA paperwork to get your car road-legal.

Fees, Taxes and Import Costs

Importing a car from Japan to the UK involves several key costs, all of which we break down clearly before bidding. The total import value—known as CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)—is used by HMRC to calculate your import duty (usually 10%) and VAT (typically 20%). CIF includes the winning auction bid, shipping insurance, and freight charges from Japan to the UK. We handle everything from auction sheet translation and inland transport to customs clearance, NOVA submission, and DVLA registration. To begin bidding, we require a £500 deposit, which is fully refundable if you don’t win or choose not to proceed. Once your bid is successful, the deposit goes toward your final invoice. We also provide a complete quote upfront, covering auction fees, logistics, and compliance, so you can budget with confidence and avoid surprises.