Know more. Buy with confidence.
Plain-language guides to Japanese auctions, inspection, costs, payment and shipping.
Buying & shipping guides
Import Requirements by Country: Where to Start
Age limits, steering, inspections and permits differ in every market. This page links each country guide and its official sources.
Read the guidePopular Japanese Models for Export
Probox, Aqua, Fielder, Hiace, RAV4 and Prado are among the models importers ask us for most. Here is why, and what to check for each.
Read the guideSourcing Japanese Vehicles for Your Dealership
Dealers buying every month need a steady supply, clear condition information and predictable landed costs. This is how we run auction sourcing for dealers and importers.
Read the guideExport Documents for Vehicles From Japan
Every car we ship leaves Japan with an export certificate, a commercial invoice and a bill of lading. Your country may also need an inspection certificate or a translation.
Read the guidePre-Export Vehicle Inspections From Japan
Several import countries require a roadworthiness or pre-shipment inspection in Japan before the vehicle sails. Which inspection you need depends on the destination, not on the car.
Read the guideAuction Security Deposits and Buying Limits
A refundable security deposit sets how much you can bid at the Japanese auctions through KTJAPAN. USD 1,000 covers cars up to USD 5,000, and the balance after a win is due within 48 hours.
Read the guideHow to Pay KTJAPAN Safely
Bank transfer is the standard way to pay for a car from Japan. Here is how to pay safely and avoid fake bank details.
Read the guideHow to Import a Car From Japan
Confirm local eligibility, source and inspect a vehicle, approve your bid, then arrange export, freight and local customs clearance.
Read the guideRoRo vs Container Shipping
RoRo ships carry vehicles driven on and off the vessel. Container shipping secures vehicles inside a container and can suit consolidated dealer shipments.
Read the guideFOB vs C&F vs CIF
FOB covers delivery on board at the export port. C&F (often called CFR) adds freight to the named destination port. CIF adds marine insurance. Destination taxes and clearance remain separate.
Read the guideHow Much Should You Bid?
Work backwards from your total budget. Allow for auction fees, inland transport, export preparation, freight and destination taxes before setting your maximum vehicle bid.
Read the guideJapanese Auction Grades Explained
Auction grades describe an inspector’s overall condition assessment. A higher grade often indicates better condition, but grading standards differ and individual notes matter.
Read the guideHow to Read a Japanese Auction Sheet
An auction sheet summarises the inspector’s observations, vehicle specification, grade and visible damage. Read the comments and diagram alongside the overall grade.
Read the guideHow Japanese Car Auctions Work
Japanese vehicle auctions are trade marketplaces. Your sourcing desk reviews the vehicle, agrees a maximum bid with you and bids on your behalf.
Read the guideTell us the car, the budget and the port.
We reply within one business day with options from the auctions or our stock.