Logistics Solutions
Efficient and reliable logistics services for your vehicle shipping needs
Sourcing Cars
When sourcing used Japanese cars, we use the most effective methods to ensure we satisfy customers’ needs. These include:
The Art of Purchasing
At first glance, buying a used car in Japan might seem easy. However, it is more complicated than many people think. Luckily, we have the expertise to do all the heavy lifting as you relax and wait for the car of your dreams to be shipped to you.
Here is what happens behind the scenes during a vehicle purchase:
Collecting all relevant information
Every car purchase starts with the gathering of information. Once we identify a vehicle, we go to great lengths to get as many pictures and videos as possible, as well as all the records that tell us about the car’s history.
Vehicle assessment
Armed with this information, we then assess the vehicle to determine if its real value falls within both the buyer’s and the seller’s expectations. Where the values match, we proceed to the next phase.
Negotiations
We negotiate on behalf of our customers to ensure we get them a deal that makes financial sense, while also being as fair as possible to the seller.
Closing
Once the buyer and seller agree on a vehicle price, we close the deal on the agreed terms.
Inland Transportation
Once the payment for the vehicle is made, we proceed to transport it from the point of purchase to the designated Port of Departure (POD), a process that usually takes 1 to 2 weeks to conclude.
Storage
Storage may be affected by two scenarios that usually arise:
Ready to ship vehicles
These are the cars whose paperwork is ready and comply with the import regulations at destination.
Not ready to ship
These are cars that we’re unable to ship immediately due to legal issues. In such cases, we provide storage services to our customers for a fee of 20,000 yen/month.
Export Documents, Customs, and Shipping Documents
Once we receive the documents from the seller, we immediately start the export process which includes:
Motor vehicle de-registration:
This is handled by the Traffic Bureau, where documents attached to the car, such as the driving permit, are given in exchange for the Export Certificate.
Translation of the Export Certificate:
If a customer makes a request, a translation of the export certificate is also included in the documentation.
Customs Clearance:
We forward to our customs agents all the documents required for port clearance of the vehicle including the commercial invoice and export certificate.
Radiation survey/other inspections:
Critical inspections such as radiation surveys are done at the car storage yard before shipment. Depending on the country where the vehicle is destined, some additional checks and inspections may be done before it departs from the port. We also provide the necessary assistance for this process.
Shipping
Thanks to our partnership with a wide network of reliable and experienced shipping companies, Loginet can offer the fastest Japanese used cars delivery to the destination country. Before shipment, we make a point of discussing with our clients the best options available for timely shipment to a suitable port. With our services you are assured that your car import from Japan is handled safely, and gets to you on time and within your budget.
We usually give our clients a choice of two shipping options - “ro-ro” (roll-on/roll-off), or container shipping.
Roll-on/Roll-off (ro-ro)
When making a single-vehicle delivery the method that is usually preferred is ro-ro. Here, the ship is specially designed to carry wheeled vehicles such as cars, trucks, semi-trucks, and locomotives which are driven on and off the ship using their own power. This method is convenient because it reduces the need for additional machinery like cranes. This method is if you are working a tight budget and schedule because it is generally faster, more convenient, and less expensive than using a shipping container. It also doesn’t require the deconstruction of larger vehicles. The fact that your vehicle is ready-to-drive from the port of delivery is a big plus in terms of saving time and money. If the destination port is underdeveloped, this is a great shipping option for you.
While ro-ro is convenient, it comes with some challenges:
Challenge: 01
Not all countries cater for this option, especially those without seaport access. In such cases, our customer support team will advise you on how to proceed.
Challenge: 02
Although ro-ro is a safe option for most of the destination ports, it carries a risk of accidents and damage to the vehicle, especially during the loading and unloading process.
Challenge: 03
There also may be a risk of robbery or vandalism while the vehicle is unattended since it is normally kept unlocked for access by shipyard staff.
Challenge: 04
Vehicle imports from Japan may only be insured for total loss since there is no way to assess any damage that might occur before shipment.
Challenge: 05
Due to their delicate nature, car imports from Japan regarded as collector's items or classics might not be served well by the ro-ro option as they are more vulnerable to damage.
Challenge: 06
The imported vehicle must be in an operative condition, and should not hold any personal belongings, including any spare parts during shipment.
Container Shipping
For clients looking to purchase imported cars from Japan in bulk, container shipment is a great option. Here, cargo is shipped in individual truck-sized 20-foot and 40-foot containers. Normally, one car can fit in a 20-foot container, while up to six can fit into a 40-foot container, depending on size. 40 footers are the most economical option for customers importing multiple vehicles. For luxury and classic vehicles, shipment in separate containers is strongly recommended. Sharing the cost of a container is a recommended way of reducing shipping costs for individual vehicles.
The benefits of using a shipping container include:
- Unlike the ro-ro option, the vehicle doesn’t have to be in operable condition to be transported by container.
- Since the vehicles are inspected before loading, they can be insured for damages that may occur before or after shipment.
- Vehicle imports from Japan can be sent to practically any port in the world, including those lacking the ro-ro option.
- Cargo can be hauled by road or train to your delivery location within a land-locked country.
- Given that containers are sealed and secured, there is a reduced risk of damage to your vehicle/vehicles. Upon arrival, they remain under seal during storage and are attended to within the port of delivery and are therefore safe until collection.
- Spare parts and other effects may be sealed in the container with your vehicle, meaning you don’t need to ship them separately.
One of the downsides to using a shipping container for Japanese motor vehicle export is that the cargo’s ETD depends on the containers being filled before shipping.Container shipment pricing also varies according to the size of the container selected, and the monthly rates charged for shipping. The monthly rates are pegged to the fuel prices which change every three months or so to reflect new fuel prices.Other fees that are usually levied include
Documentation fees
Terminal handling charges for storage and positioning of containers
Terminal handling charges
Terminal handling charges for storage and positioning of containers
Sealing Fees
Sealing fees charged whenever containers are changed, seal documentation as well as cleaning
To get the most up to date pricing for handling and insurance fees, please contact our customer support team. Remember prices vary depending on the size of the container, destination, as well as documentation and hauling needs. There is therefore no fixed price for this service.
If you need Japanese used car import services, Loginet is up to the task of sourcing and shipping the best affordable Japanese cars to suit your needs.