Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Beijing to Tokyo

Japan's "3-year car rule" refers to the mandatory, costly vehicle inspection called Shaken, where new passenger cars first get a 3-year certificate, then renew every 2 years, encouraging frequent car replacement and boosting the used car export market, rather than a strict scrapping law. This system, along with higher taxes on older cars, makes it economically sensible for many owners to trade in before major maintenance, creating a large supply of relatively young used vehicles.

A nonconforming car may be shipped from China to the United States under certain conditions, such as re-importing a previously exported vehicle, shipping a vehicle for personal use not exceeding one year, shipping a vehicle as a member of foreign armed forces, diplomatic personnel, or other exceptions authorized by the ...

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but for long cross-country moves, the cost difference shrinks, and shipping can become comparable or even cheaper once you factor in gas, lodging, food, wear-and-tear, and your time, making the decision depend on distance, vehicle, your schedule, and budget. Driving saves money on carrier fees but adds wear on your car, while shipping costs more upfront but saves time, fuel, and stress.