Shogun Auto Japan

Services

From used car export and vehicle sales to maintenance, inspections, and bodywork, we handle every service in-house from start to finish. Our bilingual staff is here to assist you in Japanese or English.

Used cars being loaded for export at a port

THE PROCESS - VEHICLE EXPORT

01

Free Consultation and Quote

Tell us about the vehicle you want to purchase, or the vehicle you already own, along with your destination and shipping requirements.

02

Vehicle Confirmation

We confirm the vehicle details, shipping requirements, costs, and next steps. If purchasing a vehicle through us, we work with the Japanese seller on your behalf to complete the purchase.

03

Export Documentation

Our bilingual staff prepares and coordinates all documentation required for international shipping.

04

Shipping & Ocean Freight

We arrange transportation to the port in Japan and ocean freight to your destination, with both RORO and container shipping options available.

05

Arrival at Destination

Upon arrival, your vehicle is cleared and released for pickup or inland transportation.

BONUS STEP

INLAND TRANSPORTATION

Need your vehicle transported beyond the destination port? For U.S. shipments, we can recommend trusted inland transportation providers for delivery directly to your residence.

EXPORT FAQ

Can you ship a vehicle I already own?

Yes. We can handle the complete export and shipping process for a vehicle you already own in Japan, including documentation, port delivery, and international shipping arrangements.

Can you help me purchase a vehicle in Japan?

Yes. We can help source and purchase vehicles in Japan for export through dealers and auctions. If you plan to drive the vehicle in Japan and export it later, we can also assist with inspection, registration, maintenance, and repairs.

Where do you ship vehicles to?

We ship vehicles worldwide, including to the United States, Canada, Europe, Guam, the Caribbean, South America, Africa, and other international markets. Contact us to confirm availability and shipping options for your destination.

Do you ship by RORO and container?

Yes. We offer both RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) and container shipping. The right choice depends on the vehicle, destination, sailing schedule, and your specific requirements.

How much does it cost to ship a vehicle?

The total cost is based on factors such as the vehicle’s size, destination, shipping method, and current ocean freight rates. Contact us for a quote tailored to your vehicle and destination.

What documents are required to export a vehicle from Japan?

The required paperwork is determined by the vehicle, its specifications, and the destination country. We will guide you through the process and handle the Japanese export and shipping documentation on your behalf.

How long does international shipping take?

Transit times vary depending on the destination, vessel schedule, route, and any transshipment requirements. When arranging your shipment, we can provide an estimated sailing schedule and transit time.

Can you arrange transportation from the destination port to my home?

In many locations, yes. We can assist with arranging inland transportation from the destination port to your home, business, or other specified location.

Do you work with dealerships and wholesale buyers?

Yes. We work with both individual customers and commercial buyers, including dealerships, wholesalers, and businesses purchasing or exporting multiple vehicles.

Does my vehicle have to be 25 years old to import it into the United States?

Japan-spec and other non-U.S.-spec vehicles that are at least 25 years old are generally eligible for import into the United States. However, U.S.-spec vehicles can be imported into the United States regardless of model year, provided they meet applicable requirements. We can help you determine the import requirements for your specific vehicle.

New and used cars lined up on a dealer lot

THE PROCESS — VEHICLE PURCHASE

01

Tell Us What You’re Looking For

Share your preferred make, model, year, budget, and any specific requirements.

02

Vehicle Sourcing

We work directly with trusted Japanese dealers, sellers, and auction houses on your behalf to source vehicles throughout Japan.

03

Vehicle Review

We review the vehicle’s condition, history, specifications, and available documentation before purchase.

04

Purchase & Payment

Once you approve the vehicle, we coordinate the purchase and payment process with the seller.

05

Delivery & Next Steps

We arrange delivery and can assist with inspection, registration, maintenance, repairs, or international shipping as needed.

Vehicle Purchase FAQ

Can you help me find a specific vehicle?

Yes. Tell us the make, model, year, budget, and specifications you’re looking for, and we can help locate suitable vehicles throughout Japan.

Where do you source your vehicles?

We work directly with trusted Japanese dealers, sellers, and auction houses throughout Japan to source and purchase vehicles on your behalf.

Can you inspect a vehicle before I purchase it?

Yes. We can review the vehicle’s condition, available history, documentation, photos, and inspection information before you make a purchase decision.

Do you sell both new and used vehicles?

Yes. We can assist with the purchase of both new and used vehicles, subject to availability.

Do you only handle SOFA Y-plate registration?

No. In addition to Y-plate registration for eligible SOFA personnel, we also handle Japanese “Kanji Plate” vehicle registration for Japanese residents. Either way, we’re happy to help.

Can you arrange repairs or modifications before delivery?

Yes. We can coordinate maintenance, repairs, bodywork, wheels and tires, accessories, audio equipment, and other modifications.

Can I purchase a vehicle now and export it later?

Yes. We can help you purchase and use a vehicle in Japan and arrange international shipping when you’re ready to export it.

Can you ship the vehicle overseas after I purchase it?

Yes. We provide complete international vehicle export services, including documentation, port delivery, and RORO or container shipping.

Can you ship a vehicle within Japan?

Yes. We can arrange domestic vehicle transportation throughout mainland Japan and Okinawa.

Free Consultation & Quotes

Have a question or need a quote?
Call us today. We're happy to assist in both English and Japanese.