Why Use AN Importer?
Purchasing a vehicle in Japan has become as easy as emailing a reputable exporter like Tweed-Autogarage. They’ll find your car, purchase it on your behalf and then have it booked on a ship headed to the USA. But what happens after that? You can try and handle the import yourself, but the process is difficult and if you make an easy mistake you could find yourself at port trying to pick up a car they’re refusing to release. From missed payments to missing documents, there are dozens of ways the process can quickly become a nightmare. But, that’s where we come in.
Since 2014, we have handled the importation of over 400 vehicles into the USA under the 25 year safety and emissions exemptions. We handle the entire import process. From ISF filing before departure, shipment tracking, customs clearance, line release and pickup scheduling. Run-Works LLC, maintains a continuous bond with US customs, which allows us to quickly secure releases. In addition, after years of importing we have developed relationships with the staff of the major ocean freight lines and terminal employees, which allows us to resolve almost any issue with a quick phone call.
What we need to import your car FROM Japan
To import your vehicle Run-Works LLC must be listed on the shipping Bill of Lading as both the Consignee and the Notify Party. In addition, we need the following from your exporter at least 48 hours prior to your vehicle’s date of departure from port in Japan.
Copy of Export Title
Copy of Bill of Lading
Departure Port and Estimated Date of Departure (from Japan)
Arrival Port and Estimated Date of Arrival (to the USA)
If you purchased from Tweed-Autogarage, and are using our service, they will send the information above as soon as it’s available. If you are using a different exporter, and they are unable to get us this information 48 hours prior to departure, we will not be able to handle your import.
Why is the isf a big deal?
You may have heard about the importance of the Importer Security Filing (ISF). This needs to be filed with US customs 24 hours prior to your vehicle’s departure from Japan. Late filing can result in fines of up to $5,000. If no ISF is filed your vehicle could be seized after arrival in the USA. We handle this on your behalf, which is why we need all the booking information 48 hours before departure.
What happens after your car ships
Once your car is on the water, it becomes our responsibility. We track the shipment progress and provide you with regular updates. Then , after it arrives at port in the USA, we clear it through customs, secure the line release and make all the various payments related to import on your behalf. We then send you a final invoice with all the import costs broken down.
What happens after your car arrives
Once your car is fully-released, we work with you to arrange for pickup from the port. If you are planning on doing it yourself, we will send you an email with a breakdown of the pickup process. This includes the terminal address, hours of operation, and any documentation the port requires to release the vehicle to you. Depending on your state’s laws, you may be able to get temporary registration and simply drive your car out. You are always permitted to pull it out on a trailer. Many of our customers have simply rented U-Haul car carriers to pick their cars up.
If you plan to have a transporter deliver your car from the port, we can work with them to provide the documentation they’ll require to have the car released to them. In addition, if you don’t have transport arranged, but would like your car delivered we can also make those arrangements. Costs vary depending on the port and your distance away from it.
getting your car registered
Once your car is in your possession, you will need to register it with your local DMV/BMV. To make this easier we email a PDF with all the import documentation and an explanation of each form. Below is a list of documentation we always provide:
Customs Entry
Customs Release
EPA Form 3520-1 (Emissions Exemption)
DOT Form HS-7 (Safety Exemption)
Copy of Export Title
Translation of Export Title
Most states require all of the above, and some may require additional documentation like the original Export Title, Purchase Invoice from the exporter or even a notarized Bill of Sale. We can assist in securing any additional documents. In addition, some DMVs may require your vehicle to be inspected by a police officer and some may require an inspection at the DMV at the time of registration. It’s best to contact your local branch before your car arrives to determine their exact requirements.
What about insurance?
Most major insurance companies will cover vehicles imported from Japan. For our own vehicles we have always used Hagerty, as you’re able to secure a policy with a declared value for a reasonable price. Whoever you decide to use, you will need to inform them it’s for an imported vehicle with a non-standard VIN. In addition, some insurance companies make ask for copies of import documentation like the customs entry or safety and emissions exemption forms.
how much does this all cost?
To use our service, there are no up front costs. We simply send you a final invoice once your vehicle arrives. This will include the import duty, any port or carrier fees, and our flat service fee of $500. Below is a breakdown.
Import Duty - 2.5% of vehicle value
Arrival & Port Fees - $100-$300 (varies depending on shipping line and port used)
Run-Works Service Fee - $500
For example, a Nissan S15 Silvia purchased from an exporter for $14,000 and being imported
through the port of Jacksonville, Florida would have a break down as follows:
Import Duty - $416
Arrival & Port Fees - $265
Run-Works Service Fee - $500
Total - $1,181
how do I get started?
If you want to use our service, or find out more use the contact form at the bottom of this page or email us at imports@run-works.com. Please include the year, make and model of your vehicle if you’ve already purchased one along with your exporters name if available.
Are you stationed in Japan?
Are you a US Service member stationed in Japan that has purchased a car and DMO is refusing to ship it for you? We can help! In conjunction with Tweed-Autogarage, we can assist you with the export of your car from Japan and importation into the US. For more information email us at imports@run-works.com.