{"id":634,"date":"2026-10-11T18:09:11","date_gmt":"2026-10-11T09:09:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/car-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas\/"},"modified":"2026-10-13T14:12:57","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T05:12:57","slug":"car-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/export-import\/car-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas\/","title":{"rendered":"How do I export a car from Japan overseas? A comparison and procedures guide for ocean and air transport"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article was completely rewritten with information current as of October 2026. It is aimed at people sending automobiles from Japan overseas, those traveling in Japan in automobiles or camper vans from abroad, and those considering exporting used Japanese automobiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, here&#8217;s a sense of the costs. To send one passenger car to Europe by container, the costs on the Japan side are approximately 1,000,000 yen. To this are added port fees and customs clearance fees at the destination, and if it is a permanent import, tariffs and value-added tax as well. Air transport exceeds several million yen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The system for temporary import and export (CPD carnet, and the C5014 for international ferries) and the actual operation at Japanese customs are explained in detail in the <a href=\"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/export-import\/motorcycle-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"601\">Motorcycle Export Guide<\/a>. The system is the same for two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles, so those planning overseas touring or camper van travel should read that as well. This article focuses on points unique to four-wheeled vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shipping methods and cost estimates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">International transport of automobiles uses one of three methods: Ro-Ro ships (car-only ships), container ships, or aircraft. If there is a regular Ro-Ro ship route to the destination, a Ro-Ro ship is the most common method for used car exports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Category<\/th><th>Ro-Ro ship<\/th><th>Container ship<\/th><th>Air Transport<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Cost estimate<\/strong><\/td><td>Varies greatly depending on the route. Quote needed for each shipment<\/td><td>Approximately 1,000,000 yen per vehicle (Japan side) for Europe<\/td><td>Several million yen and up<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Lead time<\/strong><\/td><td>1\u20132 months<\/td><td>1\u20132 months<\/td><td>Several days to 1 week<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Loading conditions<\/strong><\/td><td>Must be able to drive on its own<\/td><td>Non-running vehicles acceptable. Must fit within container dimensions<\/td><td>Strict size and weight restrictions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Features<\/strong><\/td><td>Convenient and inexpensive for a single vehicle. Risk of minor damage and theft as the vehicle is exposed<\/td><td>Sealed for safety. Expensive if shipping just one vehicle<\/td><td>Fast but extremely expensive<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ro-Ro ship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Ro-Ro (Roll-on\/Roll-off) ship is a dedicated car ship where vehicles drive on under their own power. They are parked on the vehicle deck inside the ship and secured with belts for transport. Because even a single vehicle can be loaded, this method is convenient for individuals and often costs less than container shipping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because vehicles are placed directly in the hold, compared to containers, the risk of minor damage and theft from inside the vehicle is higher. You will be handing over your keys, so do not leave valuables inside the car. The condition is that the vehicle must be able to drive on its own; non-running vehicles require prior confirmation with the shipping company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Container ship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A 40ft container can hold three to four passenger cars. The container is sealed in Japan and remains closed until opened in the importing country, so no third party can touch the vehicles, making it suitable for high-value vehicles and collectors&#8217; cars. For a single vehicle, a 20ft container is used, but since you pay for a whole container, it is expensive per vehicle. If you ship multiple vehicles together, the cost per vehicle decreases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Leave the securing of vehicles in the container (lashing) to specialists. Costs are charged separately depending on the number of vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vehicles that do not fit in a container<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The interior dimensions of a 40ft high-cube container are approximately 2.7 m high and 2.35 m wide. Camper vans, high-roof vans, and large SUVs may not fit within these dimensions. In that case, a flat-rack container or a Ro-Ro ship is used. Flat racks significantly increase costs, and Ro-Ro ships have limited routes. If you are shipping a tall vehicle, first measure its dimensions and confirm which method can be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Air Transport<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delivery takes several days, but costs exceed several million yen. This is an option for special circumstances such as exhibition vehicles for motor shows or races, or high-value vehicles where delivery time is the priority. Fuel must be almost empty, and large vehicles may not fit in cargo aircraft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Temporary import and export of automobiles and camper vans<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are traveling in Japan in your own car, or traveling overseas in a Japanese car, the procedure is temporary import and export rather than permanent export. The available systems are the same as for motorcycles: the CPD carnet and the automobile temporary import and export declaration form (C5014), which is limited to international ferries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For the content of the system and the actual operation at Japanese customs, please read the <a href=\"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/export-import\/motorcycle-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"601\">Motorcycle Export Guide<\/a>. In particular, that C5014 is difficult to obtain for routes other than round-trip ferries, and that exports are stopped if equipment is not listed in the CPD carnet, apply equally to four-wheeled vehicles. Here we mention only points unique to four-wheeled vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vehicle conditions for international ferries<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For temporary import and export on international ferries connecting Japan and Korea, in addition to conditions common to motorcycles (round-trip reservation required, same route only, cargo other than equipment handled as freight, X-ray inspection upon return), four-wheeled vehicles have vehicle-side conditions. Depending on the route, there are restrictions such as the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shipping rate is determined by overall length (under 5 m, under 6 m, etc.). Camper vans are quoted individually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electric vehicles are not allowed on board. Hybrid vehicles that also use gasoline are permitted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vehicles with ground clearance of 9 cm or less are not allowed on board. Vehicles with low ground clearance are measured on the day of boarding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All cargo in the vehicle may be removed and inspected at entry and departure. Camper vans tend to carry many household goods, so sort them out in advance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Routes and contact information for each company are compiled in the &#8220;International Ferry&#8221; section of the Motorcycle Export Guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Camper van equipment and the CPD carnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Camper vans carry refrigerators, cooking equipment, bedding, tables, chairs, and other equipment in quantities incomparable to motorcycles. When exporting a camper van by container using a CPD carnet, you should consider the risk of these items being treated as &#8220;goods not listed in the carnet&#8221; to be higher than with motorcycles. It is all the more important to request that the issuing authority list items in the &#8220;Other particulars&#8221; field or provide a list of equipment with a stamp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Much of the household equipment carried in the vehicle and brought in is not subject to the carnet at all; it is duty-free under a separate system as travel goods of the traveler. The Notice on &#8220;Handling of OECD Council Decisions and Recommendations on International Tourism Policy&#8221; (Kurakkan No. 627) treats items such as tents, camping equipment, cameras, and portable computers that non-resident travelers carry and import as duty-free in principle, with no written declaration or security required. The same OECD agreement also requires member states to allow temporary import of travelers&#8217; camper vans, caravans, and trailers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, the distinction between items that entered as travel goods and items that entered as vehicle equipment is not recorded at the time of entry. If these are not carried by the owner and are exported in a container with the vehicle still loaded, they fall outside the carnet for export declaration purposes and must be declared as separate cargo. When a customs broker says &#8220;export is not possible because it is not listed in the carnet,&#8221; this does not mean it is legally impossible to export; it means the carnet alone cannot process it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is relevant international discussion on this point. The Working Party of the Inland Transport Committee of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) adopted Resolution No. 1 in 1956, &#8220;Temporary Import of Contents of Tourist Caravans Exempt from Import Duties and Import Taxes,&#8221; recommending to governments that they not require a complete and detailed inventory of the contents of tourist caravans, but instead require declaration only of expensive equipment such as refrigerators, fixed radio sets, and unusual furniture or carpets in the &#8220;Other Particulars&#8221; field. The basis cited is Article 9, paragraph 3 (normal equipment need not be listed) and paragraph 4 (attachments not recognized as normal equipment must be declared if the customs authority requests) of the &#8220;Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Private Motor Vehicles.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The status of each country&#8217;s acceptance of this resolution is not recorded, nor does it have legal binding force (document number TRANS\/WP.30\/51; contained in the 2008 working group document ECE\/TRANS\/WP.30\/2008\/16). However, the concept that &#8220;ordinary vehicle accessories need not be listed, only expensive items need to be listed&#8221; aligns with the text of the convention and is consistent in direction with Japan&#8217;s Enforcement Ordinance Article 2 (only accessories of 10,000 yen or more are to be listed). This is a valuable reference material when customs or customs brokers differ in their views on how to list accessories on a CPD carnet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exporting a campervan from Japan overseas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When traveling overseas in a Japan-registered campervan, obtain a CPD carnet from JAF and ship it by container (if it fits), flat rack, or Ro-Ro vessel. Costs will be higher than for passenger cars. If crossing to South Korea by international ferry, confirm with each company whether the vehicle can be accepted and the shipping rate by providing the vehicle&#8217;s dimensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shipment of electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) are equipped with large-capacity lithium-ion batteries, so shipping companies will request additional documents. Generally required are the battery&#8217;s SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and DGD (Dangerous Goods Declaration). Some shipping companies also require confirmation by a third-party surveying company. These must be obtained from the manufacturer&#8217;s Japanese subsidiary or importer, and this takes time. If you are shipping an EV or PHEV, begin preparations earlier than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As mentioned above regarding international ferries, there are some routes that cannot accommodate electric vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Permanent export procedures and required documents (Japan side)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Required documents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Invoice<\/strong>: Details of the sale showing the vehicle name, chassis number, model year, engine displacement, and fuel type<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Packing list<\/strong>: Quantity, dimensions, and weight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Export deregistration provisional certificate<\/strong> (for registered vehicles) or <strong>Export notification certificate<\/strong> (for vehicles already deregistered). Issued by the Transport Bureau or the Light Vehicle Inspection Association. Valid for six months. A bilingual Japanese-English version is available; if the importing country requires an English version, obtain that<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Certificate of transfer<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pre-shipment inspection certificate<\/strong>: Only if required by the importing country. Inspection items vary by country, including mileage, radiation, and pests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Procedure flow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sales contract and receipt of payment<\/strong>: Agree on payment terms with the overseas buyer. Prepayment is the standard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Export deregistration<\/strong>: Obtain the certificate from the Transport Bureau or the Light Vehicle Inspection Association.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reserve shipping space<\/strong>: Through a freight forwarder, reserve a Ro-Ro vessel or container and deliver the vehicle to the port yard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clean the vehicle and verify contents<\/strong>: Remove mud and plant seeds. For shipments to Australia and New Zealand, cargo shipped from September through April must undergo fumigation or heat treatment for stink bug control. Do not put anything inside the vehicle other than a spare tire and tools. If undeclared items are found loaded, export permission for the vehicle may not be granted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Customs export declaration and approval<\/strong>: After comparing documents with the actual goods, an export license is issued. At this point, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is notified, and the vehicle is marked as exported on the Japanese registration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Loading and B\/L issuance<\/strong>: The shipping company issues a bill of lading (B\/L). Send the original to the buyer, who will exchange it for the vehicle at the arrival port.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Application for recycling fee refund<\/strong>: If the recycling fee has been deposited, it can be refunded by applying to the Automobile Recycling Promotion Center (JARC) after export. Copies of the export deregistration certificate, export license, and B\/L are required.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regulations, customs, and registration in the importing country<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verification of import regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each country has its own regulations for importing used vehicles. Below are some representative examples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>United States 25-year rule<\/strong>: Vehicles manufactured more than 25 years ago can be imported exempt from safety and emissions standards compliance. Japanese-specification vehicles less than 25 years old generally cannot be imported.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right-hand drive acceptability<\/strong>: Some countries require conversion to left-hand drive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vehicle age and mileage restrictions<\/strong>: New Zealand, for example. Some countries like Thailand essentially prohibit imports of used vehicles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emissions and crash safety standards<\/strong>: Europe requires a certificate of compliance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tariffs and taxes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tariff rates vary by country and vehicle type. The United States charges 2.5% on passenger cars and 25% on trucks. Europe adds a tariff of approximately 10% plus VAT of around 20%. Some Southeast Asian countries impose very high tariffs and excise taxes depending on engine displacement. You may be asked for additional documents such as an import permit, proof of emissions and radiation inspections, and notarized proof of ownership, so confirm in advance with a local customs broker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Registration in the destination country<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After customs clearance, local registration is required to drive on public roads. You may be required to undergo safety inspections, emissions testing, headlight beam adjustment, speedometer conversion to miles, and other work. The Japanese export deregistration certificate is often used as proof of ownership for local registration, so do not lose the original.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to collect your motorcycle locally<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Direct pickup at the port<\/strong>: The most common option. Present the original B\/L, identification, and customs documents to pick up the vehicle from the bonded yard. Storage fees accrue on a daily basis after the free time following arrival. If you drive the vehicle away from the port under its own power, you may need a temporary license plate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Door-to-door<\/strong>: A service that delivers the vehicle from the port to a designated location. Local ground transportation costs are added.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In either case, inspect the vehicle&#8217;s condition on the spot at pickup and photograph any damage for the record. This is necessary for insurance claims. Note that marine insurance for used vehicles does not cover exterior scratches or paint peeling. Coverage applies only to major damage such as marine accidents or total loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overseas demand for JDM vehicles and export business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicles are models manufactured and sold for the domestic Japanese market. Sports cars from the 1990s, light trucks, commercial vans, and other models unique to Japan receive strong support from overseas enthusiasts. In the United States, vehicles that have reached the 25-year threshold can now be legally imported one after another, and Skyline GT-Rs, Supras, Silvias, RX-7s and others are trading at high prices. Even in Japan, cars that lose value as they age can be highly valued overseas for the rarity of right-hand drive, the reliability of Japanese manufacture, and the appeal of tuning culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In emerging markets, Japanese mass-market and commercial vehicles are being exported in large quantities as &#8220;inexpensive, dependable used cars.&#8221; Even in developed countries, demand for neoclassic vehicles in the 25-year-rule category and limited-edition models remains strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Points to note if conducting this as a business:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Comply with the laws and regulations of the importing country. Do not export vehicles that do not meet safety standards or are illegally modified.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The illegal export of stolen vehicles is becoming a problem, and customs inspections are becoming stricter. Verify the chassis number and ownership before export.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prices fluctuate wildly with temporary booms. Identify local demand accurately and manage risk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payment is typically prepaid. For credit transactions with overseas buyers, the use of escrow or partnerships with local partners becomes necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q1: I want to travel around Japan in a campervan. What do I need?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Obtain a CPD carnet and undergo JAF certification for temporary import. Depending on the vehicle&#8217;s dimensions, it may not fit in a container and will require a flat rack or Ro-Ro ship instead. Since there are many accessories, please have them listed in the carnet&#8217;s &#8220;Other particulars&#8221; section or on a separate sheet with an official stamp. For details, see <a href=\"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/export-import\/motorcycle-export-guide-from-japan-to-overseas\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"601\">the motorcycle export guide<\/a>, section &#8220;Temporary import and export systems and practical operation.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q2: Should I choose a Ro-Ro ship or a container?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Choose a Ro-Ro ship if there is a Ro-Ro route to your destination, the vehicle can drive on its own, and you can tolerate the risk of minor damage. Choose a container for high-value vehicles, non-running vehicles, regions without Ro-Ro routes, or when shipping multiple vehicles together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q3: Can I ship an electric vehicle?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Yes, you can. However, you will need a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the lithium-ion battery and a Dangerous Goods Declaration, and some shipping companies may also require a survey. Preparation takes time, so please contact us early. Some international ferry routes do not allow electric vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q4: Is it cheaper to buy an inexpensive car locally?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: In most cases, yes. A container to Europe costs around \u00a51,000,000 on the Japan side, plus destination-side expenses and taxes. If the vehicle price is below this, buying locally is more economical. Exceptions are JDM vehicles that are unavailable locally, or when you want to bring a car you have a special attachment to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q5: Are quotes free?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Quotes are paid. Use the figures in this article as a rough guide for estimates. For individual quotes, you need to confirm costs separately with the freight forwarder, customs broker, and shipping company. If you place an order with us, we will deduct the quote fee from your order costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Treaties, laws, and references consulted<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/treaties.un.org\/Pages\/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&amp;mtdsg_no=XI-A-8&amp;chapter=11&amp;clang=_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Private Motor Vehicles (1954, New York)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.japaneselawtranslation.go.jp\/en\/laws\/view\/827\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law on Special Provisions to the Tariff Law and Other Laws in Connection with the Implementation of the Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Private Motor Vehicles<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/laws.e-gov.go.jp\/law\/339CO0000000182\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ordinance for Enforcement of the Act<\/a> (in Japanese)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.customs.go.jp\/kaisei\/zeikantsutatsu\/kobetsu\/TU-S46k0849.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Customs procedures for private motor vehicles imported and exported using international ferries (Customs Bureau Directive No. 849)<\/a> (in Japanese)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.customs.go.jp\/kaisei\/zeikantsutatsu\/kobetsu\/TU-S61k0627.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Handling of &#8220;OECD Council Decision and Recommendations on International Tourism Policy&#8221; (Customs Clearance No. 627)<\/a> (in Japanese)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/english.jaf.or.jp\/use-jaf-more\/bringin\/carnet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Guide to automobile carnets (JAF)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u300cTemporary Importation of Tourist Caravan Contents with Exemption from Import Duty and Import Tax\u300d<br>UNECE Inland Transport Committee Working Party on Customs Questions Affecting Transport (WP.30) Resolution No. 1 (TRANS\/WP.30\/51).<a href=\"https:\/\/unece.org\/sites\/default\/files\/datastore\/fileadmin\/DAM\/trans\/bcf\/wp30\/documents\/ECE-TRANS-WP30-2008-16e.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/unece.org\/sites\/default\/files\/datastore\/fileadmin\/DAM\/trans\/bcf\/wp30\/documents\/ECE-TRANS-WP30-2008-16e.pdf\">Contained in Annex<\/a> to ECE\/TRANS\/WP.30\/2008\/16<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jetro.go.jp\/world\/qa\/04A-021201.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">JETRO: Export procedures for used automobiles<\/a> (in Japanese)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What we can help you with<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Based in Yokohama, we arrange international transport of automobiles and motorcycles. The actual transport is carried out by our partner freight forwarders, customs brokers, and packaging companies; we handle overall coordination and document compilation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrangement of Ro-Ro ship, container, and air transport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Export clearance by CPD carnet or C5014 (including motorhomes)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Temporary imports from overseas and collection\/land transport from ports within Japan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document preparation for permanent export (export cancellation, invoices, recycling fee refund applications)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purchasing agent services for dealer auctions for overseas buyers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arranging marine insurance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When contacting us, please provide the vehicle type and dimensions, departure and destination points, desired timing, whether it is temporary or permanent export, and whether you have a CPD carnet. Individual quotes are paid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2192 The flow of arrangements and how pricing works are summarized in the <a href=\"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/rider-support\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"1010\">Vehicle Concierge<\/a> page. For motorcycles, please also see <a href=\"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/rider-support\/shipping\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"1026\">International transport (motorcycle import and export)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Abbreviations and Terminology<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Abbreviation<\/th><th>Term<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Ro-Ro<\/strong><\/td><td>Roll-on\/Roll-off<\/td><td>Specialized vehicle carrier ship with self-loading and unloading<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>HC<\/strong><\/td><td>High Cube<\/td><td>A container approximately 30 cm taller than standard<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Flat Rack<\/strong><\/td><td>Flat Rack Container<\/td><td>A container with no roof or side walls. Used for large cargo.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>B\/L<\/strong><\/td><td>Bill of Lading<\/td><td>Bill of lading<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>CPD<\/strong><\/td><td>Carnet de Passages en Douane<\/td><td>CPD carnet (Carnet de Passages en Douane). A carnet for temporary import of travelers&#8217; motorcycles.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>C5014<\/strong><\/td><td>Application for Temporary Export\/Import of Automobiles (Customs Form C No. 5014)<\/td><td>Declaration form for duty-free temporary export and import of privately owned vehicles crossing by international ferry<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>JAF<\/strong><\/td><td>Japan Automobile Federation<\/td><td>Japan&#8217;s CPD carnet issuing and certifying authority<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>OECD<\/strong><\/td><td>Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development<\/td><td>Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>UNECE<\/strong><\/td><td>United Nations Economic Commission for Europe<\/td><td>United Nations Economic Commission for Europe<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>SDS<\/strong><\/td><td>Safety Data Sheet<\/td><td>Safety Data Sheet. Lists the properties of dangerous goods such as batteries.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>DGD<\/strong><\/td><td>Dangerous Goods Declaration<\/td><td>Dangerous Goods Declaration<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>JDM<\/strong><\/td><td>Japanese Domestic Market<\/td><td>Models sold in the Japanese domestic market<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>JARC<\/strong><\/td><td>Japan Automobile Recycling Promotion Center<\/td><td>An organization that handles deposit and refund of recycling fees<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>VAT<\/strong><\/td><td>Value Added Tax<\/td><td>Value Added Tax<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-x-large-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"line-height:1.2\">Please contact us here<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-small-font-size has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/forms\/d\/1JATPpeGfRXaemIpjUO1PbKltxmmkNDiiO8owNQoPJU4\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\n\t\t\t\tContact Us\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How to export a car from Japan overseas (updated October 2026). Comparison of Ro-Ro ships, containers, and air transport; costs; procedures such as export cancellation; and temporary import and export of motorhomes.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":735,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-634","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/634","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=634"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/634\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1151,"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/634\/revisions\/1151"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/735"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/good-loop.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=634"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}