How to Buy and Import Quality Used Japanese Cars to Ireland: Expert Tips & Step-by-Step Guide

Importing a Car from Japan has never been more attractive for Irish buyers. With the Japanese yen dropping roughly 30% over the past five years, and the recent 0% Customs Duty on Japanese cars only, So, now is an excellent time to explore the world of reliable Japanese Used Cars. Whether you’re searching for a practical daily drive or a unique JDM vehicle, understanding the import process can save you thousands of euros.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right marketplace to picking up your vehicle at Dublin Port. Let’s dive into the details that will help you navigate this process with confidence.

Why Buy Used Cars from Japan Now?

The favorable exchange rate is just the beginning. Japanese vehicles are renowned worldwide for their reliability, excellent maintenance standards, and advanced features. When you buy used cars from Japan, you’re often getting vehicles that have been meticulously cared for under Japan’s strict inspection system.

The Customs Rate Advantage

Here’s a crucial money-saving tip that many buyers overlook: there are two different customs rates for cars entering Ireland from Japan. And the good news is Under the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), the tariff has been reducing gradually since 2019. It reached 1.3% in February 2025 and was finally eliminated, so its 0% as of February 1, 2026.

• Cars NOT made in Japan (such as Volkswagen, Audi, BMW): 10% customs rate
• Cars made in Japan (Toyota, Honda, Suzuki, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru): 0% customs rate

This significant difference of 10%, which came into effect in February 1, 2026, means choosing a Japanese-manufactured vehicle could save you hundreds or even thousands of euros. Brands like Used Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi and Suzuki offerings become even more attractive under this new Custom Free rate structure.

Important Note: To claim the 0% Duty rate, your vehicle must be accompanied by a Statement of Origin proving it was manufactured in Japan. Without this, the standard 10% rate applies.

Choosing How to Buy: Agent vs. DIY

When importing Japanese used cars, you have two main approaches:

Full-Service Agents: Companies handle everything—sourcing, bidding, paperwork, and shipping. This option offers peace of mind, especially for high-value purchases or rare vehicles.

DIY Approach: You engage directly with Japanese auctions, marketplaces, or dealer networks. This requires more involvement but can yield significant savings.

Major Marketplaces and Auction Platforms

Several trusted Japan used car dealers and platforms serve international buyers:

• Qualitex Trading
• Car Deal Page
• Goo-net Exchange
• BE FORWARD
• Cars From Japan

These platforms offer access to hundreds of thousands of vehicles across Japan’s extensive dealer networks. Some have exclusive relationships with specific dealers, meaning certain vehicles may only appear on one platform.

Understanding Japanese Auction Sheets

Auction sheets are your window into a vehicle’s true condition. Even marketplace listings often include auction sheets if the vehicle was originally purchased at auction. Learning to read these sheets is essential for making informed decisions.

Overall Condition Grades

The grading system uses numbers to indicate overall condition:

• Grade 6-5: Excellent condition
• Grade 4-3.5: Good condition with minor wear
• Grade 3-2: Fair condition, visible wear
• Grade R (various forms): Repaired vehicles—these have had damage that’s been fixed

Important Note: Higher mileage cars can be marked down by a full grade or more simply for their odometer reading, not their actual physical condition. A 157,000 km vehicle in excellent condition might receive a 3.5 grade purely due to mileage—this creates opportunities for savvy buyers.

Interior Grades

Interior condition is graded separately using letters:

• A: Excellent interior
• B: Very good interior
• C: Average condition
• D-E: Noticeable wear

A car graded “3.5B” has a good interior (B) but a moderate exterior grade (3.5)—possibly a bargain if photos confirm good condition.

Decoding Condition Markings

Auction sheets include diagrams showing specific issues. Here’s what the codes mean:

Codes can combine—”AU3″ indicates a deep scratch with a deep pin dent, typically from a single impact.

Pro Tip: Japanese comments on auction sheets can be translated using Google Translate. These notes often contain valuable information about the vehicle.

Money-Saving Tips for Buying Japanese Used Cars

1. Look for Listing Errors

Vehicles aren’t always listed correctly. A manual transmission car might be catalogued as automatic, or mileage may be entered incorrectly. By not filtering too strictly, you might discover hidden gems that other buyers miss—sometimes at lower prices because they’re incorrectly categorized.

2. Consider Higher Mileage Examples

Japanese buyers often consider vehicles with 150,000+ km as “high mileage,” causing values to drop dramatically. However, well-maintained Japanese vehicles regularly exceed 200,000 km with proper care. A 160,000 km vehicle in excellent condition can represent outstanding value.

3. Explore R-Graded Vehicles

Don’t automatically dismiss repaired vehicles. A replaced door panel or windscreen doesn’t mean the car is poor quality—Japanese repair standards are generally excellent. These vehicles often sell at significant discounts.

4. Use Platform Rewards and Discounts

Many platforms offer points programs. Creating accounts, installing apps, and enabling notifications can earn small discounts that add up—potentially $45 or more in savings.

The Import Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Create an Account and Purchase

Register on your chosen platform, select your vehicle, and receive an invoice. Most platforms hold the vehicle for approximately 10 days while awaiting payment.

Step 2: Vehicle Secured and Transported

Once payment clears, the car is transported to the exporter’s yard for inspection.

Step 3: Track Your Purchase

You’ll receive access to a tracking page showing:

• Paperwork status
• Shipping schedule
• Vessel information
• Estimated arrival date

Step 4: Pre-Shipping Inspection

The exporter inspects your vehicle and takes fresh photographs, checking:

• Air conditioning operation
• Oil leaks
• Electrical systems
• Overall condition versus listing description

Step 5: Documentation

Critical documents are uploaded digitally and sent via courier:

• Export certificate
• Bill of lading
• Certificate of marine insurance

Keep these originals safe—you’ll need them for customs clearance.

Shipping Options and Costs

RoRo (Roll-on, Roll-off)

The most economical option—your vehicle is driven onto the ship and driven off at the destination port. This is suitable for most single-vehicle imports.

Container Shipping

Approximately three times the cost of RoRo, but useful for multiple vehicles or when shipping parts alongside your car.

Understanding Total Costs

Your total import cost includes:

• Vehicle price
• Shipping fees
• Customs duty: 0% (Japanese-made) or 10% (non-Japanese) calculated on vehicle + shipping
• VAT: 23% calculated on vehicle + shipping + customs
• Customs clearance agent: Approximately €100
• Port charges: Approximately €150
• VRT: Variable depending on vehicle type & the rate of CO2 or NOx emissions

Example: A €5,000 car with €1,000 shipping = €6,000 base for customs and VAT calculations.

Tracking Your Shipment

The journey from Japan to Ireland typically takes around four months. Ships often stop at multiple ports, commonly transferring cargo at European hubs like Zeebrugge before final delivery to Dublin.

Useful tracking resources:

• Vessel Finder
• MyShipTracking.com
• Dublin Port live webcams

Expect your actual arrival to be approximately one week later than initial estimates—this is normal.

Collecting Your Vehicle

Required Documents

• SAD (Single Administrative Document)—proof of customs payment
• Bill of lading
• Identification

What to Bring

• High-visibility vest (required)
• Jumper pack (essential—you may need to move other vehicles)
• Fresh fuel
• Basic tools and fuses
• Tire inflator
• Torch and gloves

Driving Your Import Home

You may be able to drive your vehicle from the port if:

1. You confirm with local authorities that driving within the 30-day VRT window is permitted
2. Your insurance company agrees to cover the vehicle using its VIN number

Not all insurers accommodate this, but persistence often pays off. The alternative involves multiple towing trips, which can cost €500-700.

Post-Import Requirements

VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax)

Standard vehicles may receive same-day VRT quotes. Unusual or JDM-specific models require valuation, which can take weeks. Having VIN-based insurance allows you to drive legally during this period.

NCT Considerations

Critical: Japanese-fitted tires lack the European E-mark safety standard. Regardless of tread condition, you must replace tires before NCT inspection. This is routinely checked and cannot be overlooked.

Immobilizers

Some Japanese-market vehicles lack factory immobilizers. Research your specific model and budget for aftermarket installation if needed—this is essential for insurance and security.

Conclusion

Importing a vehicle from Japan is more accessible than many buyers realize. With favorable exchange rates, lower customs duties on Japanese-manufactured vehicles, and access to reliable Japanese used cars with excellent maintenance histories, the process offers genuine value.

Success comes from understanding auction sheets, researching thoroughly, and managing paperwork systematically. Whether you’re seeking a practical kei car, a Honda Fit Japan export, a Nissan X-Trail used car Japan, or perhaps a Toyota Prius from Japan, the Japanese market offers exceptional variety and value.

At Qualitex Trading Co. Ltd, we specialize in helping international buyers navigate this process. As experienced Japan used car exporters, we understand the nuances of sourcing, inspecting, and shipping vehicles to destinations worldwide. Contact us today to discuss your requirements—we’re here to help you find the perfect Japanese vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the grades on Japanese auction sheets mean?

Grades typically range from 6 (excellent) down to 2 (poor condition), with R-grades indicating repaired vehicles. Interior condition is graded separately from A to E. Higher mileage alone can reduce grades by 1-1.5 points, so examine photos and condition markings carefully rather than relying solely on the overall grade.

How long does shipping from Japan to Ireland take?

Expect approximately three to four months from purchase to collection at Dublin Port. Ships typically transfer cargo at European hubs, which can add a week to initial estimates. Track your vessel online for real-time updates.

Can I drive my Japanese import before completing VRT?

In Ireland, you generally have 30 days to complete VRT after the vehicle enters the country. However, you need insurance coverage—some insurers will cover vehicles using the VIN number temporarily. Confirm with local authorities and your insurer before attempting this.

Why do Japanese tires fail NCT inspection?

Tires fitted in Japan lack the European E-mark safety certification. This is checked during every NCT inspection, and vehicles will fail regardless of tire condition. Budget for replacement tires before your NCT appointment.

Are repaired (R-grade) vehicles worth buying?

Often, yes. R-grades cover everything from minor panel replacements to more significant repairs. Japanese repair standards are generally excellent. Examine the auction sheet details carefully—a replaced door or windscreen doesn’t indicate a problematic vehicle, and these cars often sell at substantial discounts.

What’s the customs rate difference for Japanese-made versus other vehicles?

Japanese-manufactured vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Suzuki, Nissan, Subaru, etc.) are now attract a 0% customs rate, while vehicles not made in Japan (including European brands sold in Japan) are charged 10%. This difference can save hundreds of euros on your import.

Do I need a customs clearance agent?

Yes, you’ll need an agent to submit paperwork to customs and revenue for duty calculations. This typically costs around €100 and significantly simplifies the process. A good agent responds quickly and guides you through documentation requirements.