Import guide

Importing Japanese Vehicles to Russia

For the Russian Far East, Japan is next door — Vladivostok is just 2–4 days by sea, and right-hand-drive Japanese vehicles are a regional institution. The main compliance items are ERA-GLONASS, OTTC certification, and duties that scale with engine size and age, plus a recycling fee.

A white compact hatchback in a bright studio.
Shipping time
2–4 days (Vladivostok), 5–6 weeks (Novorossiysk)
Main ports
Vladivostok, Novorossiysk
Eligibility
ERA-GLONASS + OTTC; RHD permitted (some regional limits)
Taxes
Duty by engine size & age; VAT 20%; recycling fee

Best Japanese vehicles to import to Russia

Toyota Land Cruiser / Prado

The benchmark for Russian conditions — durable and in constant demand.

Toyota Hilux

Reliable pickup for harsh climates and long distances.

Mitsubishi Pajero / Nissan Safari

Proven 4x4s well suited to the Far East.

Japanese SUVs & wagons (RHD)

Abundant, affordable, and culturally established in the region.

What goes into the landed cost

  • Vehicle purchase + inland transport in Japan
  • Short Vladivostok shipping (2–4 days)
  • Customs duty (engine size & age based)
  • VAT 20% + recycling fee
  • ERA-GLONASS installation + OTTC certification

Why import through Japan Convoy

  • Fastest route from Japan — 2–4 days to Vladivostok
  • Wide selection of right-hand-drive trucks and SUVs
  • Extensive parts catalogue for Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda

The import process, step by step

  1. Browse & request a quote

    Find matching listings on the marketplace and contact verified sellers for pricing, photos, and inspection reports — no on-site checkout, wholesale "contact for pricing".

  2. Inspection & confirmation

    Our team inspects the item in Japan, verifies condition and documentation, and confirms the final landed-cost estimate for your country.

  3. Export documentation

    We prepare the export certificate, invoice, bill of lading, and any destination-specific paperwork required for clearance.

  4. Shipping

    RoRo or container shipping from the nearest Japanese port to your destination port, with tracking the whole way.

  5. Clearance & delivery

    We hand off to your customs broker with a complete document pack, and coordinate final delivery or collection.

Looking for vehicles for Russia?

Tell us the models, quantities and budget. Our team in Tokyo finds and checks the right Japanese seller, and can handle inspection and export to Russia. Free, no account needed.

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Russia Vehicles import FAQ

How fast is shipping from Japan to Vladivostok?

Vladivostok is the closest major port to Japan — transit is only 2–4 days, which makes it extremely convenient for Russian Far East importers. Western Russia can use Novorossiysk (5–6 weeks).

What is ERA-GLONASS and is it required?

ERA-GLONASS is Russia’s emergency-response system, similar to the EU’s eCall, and is required for new vehicle registration. Aftermarket units can be fitted to imported vehicles to comply.

Can I import right-hand-drive cars to Russia?

Yes — RHD vehicles can be imported and registered, and the Far East has a long tradition of RHD Japanese cars due to proximity. Some regions place limits on RHD use, so check locally.

What are the duties on Japanese cars in Russia?

Duties depend on engine size and vehicle age — newer, larger-engined cars cost more — plus 20% VAT and a recycling fee. We provide detailed landed-cost calculations per vehicle.

Ready to import Japanese vehicles to Russia?

Send a free sourcing request: we find verified sellers, and quality inspection and managed export are available.