Tips for Buying a Car in Japan

Japan provides easy access to affordable vehicles that deliver world-class performance. It is no surprise that brands like Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, and Mitsubishi are popular worldwide.

If you are looking for a pre-owned car exported directly from Japan, you can get it done in a matter of a few taps on your smartphone. Reputed dealerships make it easy to have the cars shipped from Japan port to your home nation.

Here are some steps that can help you be the owner of a mean machine.

1 – Begin an online search

Start searching for your dream vehicle on the internet. Many dealerships have a vetted network of Japanese exporters. You can browse through their listings online to make a pick. You can either participate in auctions or buy direct from the exporters. Engage in a detailed search and find your perfect vehicle.

2 – Filter down to a few cars

Once you have made a few choices, you can connect with the dealership. They will act as a go-to between your country and Japanese exporters who will supply the second-hand car. This way, it will be as if you are directly dealing with the exporter for your pick of a pre-owned car.

Once you decide on which model and variant of Japanese car you want to go for, only a few minor steps remain. You can set the budget and source the location of purchase from the various auction houses. The car dealership will bid on your behalf and get the car shipped to your country.

3 – Complete The Paperwork

Paperwork is all about registration and transfer of ownership. Whether you buy a new car or used car, a trustworthy dealer will assist you with the process. There are many forms to fill.

You will need to arrange for a host of documents like an invoice of sale, de-registration of the previous owner, inspection sheet, and auction sheet. Additionally, there are many documents like bill of lading needed at both ports to clear customs formalities. Plus, you have to get the Shaken record, which acts a vehicle inspection report. It includes safety and functional equipment (emissions, brakes, and engine oil), etc.

It is clear that arranging for documentation will be a labour-intensive process. This is why you need to take help from a dealership who knows the intricacies of the documentation for exporting the car from Japan to your home country.

4 – Get your certificate

You have to get your parking certificate. Without this document, you cannot bring your used or new vehicle home. All cars need to have a registered parking space also. It’s mandatory.

5 – Payment Part

After all the formalities are over, you have to make the payment. There is more than one way to do this. You can use cash/credit/ debit card. You may decide to pay from your bank account back home.

You can rely on the dealer to process the payment and begin the process of shipping the car from the Japanese port. You can be protected from frauds as the dealership has long-standing relationships with the exporters.

Conclusion

These were a few handy tips to buy a used car from Japan. It is clear that an individual buyer cannot accomplish all these tasks on his own. A wise alternative would be to go with a car dealership that specializes in exporting authentic pre-owned cars direct from Japan. They will ensure 100% quality checks on the car you select so that the purchase becomes a hassle-free experience for you.