Featured · Import basics
How to legally import a JDM vehicle into the United States
Federal eligibility, due diligence, and the documents commonly involved when bringing a Japanese vehicle to the United States.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
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Import knowledge, without the guesswork.
Practical guidance on vehicle eligibility, sourcing, shipping, customs, budgeting, documents, and ownership. Every article is reviewed to distinguish confirmed rules from estimates and third-party responsibilities.
8 articles
Costs and budgeting
Customs fees, port charges, and other import costs
The cost categories that make up a landed vehicle, why a single quoted number is misleading, and who determines each figure.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Vehicle guides
Can you import a JDM kei truck? Federal rules, state registration, and cost planning
Kei trucks can be federally importable, but federal eligibility and state road use are separate questions worth checking early.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Costs and budgeting
What can you import with a $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 vehicle budget?
Illustrative vehicle-purchase tiers, why condition beats headline price, and a checklist for the total budget that actually matters.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Import basics
How long does it take to import a JDM car?
A stage-by-stage view of the import timeline, who is responsible at each step, and why dates move.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Shipping and logistics
RORO vs. container shipping: which option fits your JDM import?
How roll-on/roll-off and container shipping actually differ in condition requirements, handling, parts, and cost structure.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Documents and compliance
What is a Japanese export certificate and why does it matter?
What the Japanese export document is, what it actually records, and what it does not prove.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Vehicle guides
Why the Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R is still so sought after
What Nissan's own records say about the R33 GT-R, and what to check before buying one today.
Reviewed and updated July 2026