Importing Japanese Vehicles to Russia

Q: 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).

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

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.

Browse Vehicles Full Russia import guide

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.

Russia Vehicles import FAQ

How fast is shipping from Japan to Vladivostok?

What is ERA-GLONASS and is it required?

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

What are the duties on Japanese cars in Russia?

Related import guides

Ready to import Japanese vehicles to Russia?

Browse verified listings and request a quote — quality inspection and managed export included.

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