Importing Japanese Vehicles to the United Kingdom

Q: Do I need an IVA test to import a Japanese car to the UK?

Most non-EU-type-approved Japanese vehicles need Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA), which checks safety and environmental standards. Cars over 40 years old, or previously registered in the UK/EU, are typically exempt.

Q: How much does importing a car from Japan to the UK cost?

Beyond the purchase price: shipping (£800–2,000), 10% duty, 20% VAT, IVA (£200–500 if needed), and DVLA registration (£55). Total extra cost is usually 35–45% of the vehicle value.

Q: Can I import a kei car to the UK?

Yes — 660cc kei cars are increasingly popular for their efficiency and character. Their low values often mean lower import duty, and they register normally with DVLA.

Q: How do I register a Japanese import with the DVLA?

You’ll need the Japanese export certificate, our commercial invoice, proof of VAT, insurance, and an MOT if applicable. We provide all Japanese documents; registration typically takes 2–4 weeks after port arrival.

Japan’s cars are already right-hand drive, which gives the UK a head start. The path runs through DVLA registration, an IVA test for non-type-approved cars (cars over 40 years old are exempt), and post-Brexit 10% duty plus 20% VAT. Kei cars and classic JDM are especially popular.

Browse Vehicles Full United Kingdom import guide

Shipping time

5–6 weeks

Main ports

Southampton, Bristol, London Gateway

Eligibility

IVA for non-EU-approved cars; 40+ years exempt; DVLA registration

Taxes

10% duty + 20% VAT (used value-based)

Best Japanese vehicles to import to United Kingdom

Nissan Skyline & Silvia

Core JDM enthusiast imports with a deep UK following.

Toyota Crown / classic saloons

Characterful RHD classics, many over the 40-year IVA-exempt line.

Kei cars (Honda Beat, Suzuki Cappuccino)

Efficient, distinctive, and cheap to land due to low values.

Mazda MX-5 / RX-7

Lightweight icons with strong parts and club support.

What goes into the landed cost

Vehicle purchase + inland transport in Japan
Shipping (£800–2,000)
UK duty 10% of value
VAT 20% on (value + duty + shipping)
IVA test (£200–500) where required
DVLA registration (£55) + transport

Why import through Japan Convoy

Right-hand drive — no conversion needed for UK roads
Complete DVLA documentation pack including export certificate
Vehicles inspected to MOT-ready condition before shipping

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.

United Kingdom Vehicles import FAQ

Do I need an IVA test to import a Japanese car to the UK?

How much does importing a car from Japan to the UK cost?

Can I import a kei car to the UK?

How do I register a Japanese import with the DVLA?

Related import guides

Ready to import Japanese vehicles to United Kingdom?

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

Browse Vehicles How it works