How to Import a JDM Vehicle from Japan

Your Dream JDM Car, Delivered to Your Driveway

Importing a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle may seem complicated, but with Sakura Imports LLC, we handle the process from start to finish. Whether you're looking for a Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, Honda NSX, Mitsubishi Evolution, Subaru STI, or another iconic Japanese vehicle, our team guides you through every step.

Step 1: Tell Us What You're Looking For

Start by contacting our team and letting us know:

Make and model
Year range
Budget
Desired modifications or features
Preferred color and transmission

We'll help identify vehicles that meet your requirements and are eligible for import into the United States.

Step 2: Verify U.S. Import Eligibility

The most important rule for importing a JDM vehicle into the United States is the Federal 25-Year Rule. Vehicles that are at least 25 years old are generally exempt from Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) requirements and can be legally imported into the U.S. based on their actual manufacture date.

Our team verifies eligibility before any purchase is made to ensure your vehicle can be legally imported and registered.

Step 3: Locate and Purchase the Vehicle

Sakura Imports LLC sources vehicles through:

Japanese dealer networks
Authorized exporters
Private sellers
Japanese auto auctions

Before purchase, we review auction sheets, vehicle history, condition reports, and available maintenance records to help you make an informed decision.

Step 4: Vehicle Inspection and Export Preparation

Once your vehicle is secured, it undergoes inspection and export preparation in Japan. We coordinate:

Export documentation
Vehicle inspections
Transportation to port
Shipping arrangements

Our goal is to ensure the vehicle arrives in the same condition it left Japan.

Step 5: Ocean Shipping

Your vehicle is shipped from Japan to the United States using either:

Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping

Most economical option
Ideal for stock vehicles

Container Shipping

Added protection during transit
Recommended for rare, high-value, or modified vehicles

Shipping times typically range from 4–12 weeks depending on destination port and vessel schedules.

Step 6: U.S. Customs Clearance

When your vehicle arrives in the United States, required import documentation is submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

This includes:

Import declarations
EPA documentation
DOT/NHTSA documentation
Bill of Lading
Export Certificate
Commercial Invoice

Applicable duties, taxes, and fees are paid during the customs clearance process. Passenger vehicles typically incur a federal duty based on the vehicle's declared value.

Step 7: Transportation and Delivery

After customs clearance, we coordinate transportation from the port to your location or arrange pickup.

Whether you're located in Georgia, Florida, Texas, California, or anywhere else in the United States, we'll help ensure a smooth delivery process.

Step 8: Title and Registration

Once your vehicle is delivered, you'll complete your state's title and registration process.

Requirements vary by state, but generally include:

Customs clearance documents
Japanese export certificate
Bill of Sale
Proof of ownership
Proof of insurance

Our team provides the documentation needed to help simplify the process. Registration requirements can vary by state.

Why Choose Sakura Imports LLC?

Access to thousands of Japanese auction vehicles
Expert knowledge of U.S. import regulations
Transparent communication throughout the process
Vehicle sourcing, shipping, customs, and delivery support
Personalized service from enthusiasts who understand the JDM market

Ready to Import Your Dream Car?

Whether you're searching for a classic Skyline, Supra, RX-7, NSX, Silvia, Chaser, or another rare Japanese vehicle, Sakura Imports LLC is ready to help.