Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Osaka to Chengdu

Japan's "3-year car rule" refers to its mandatory, rigorous vehicle inspection system called Shaken, where new passenger cars get their first inspection (valid for three years), then pass every two years, making older cars costly to keep, encouraging frequent upgrades and boosting the automotive market. The expensive process ensures vehicles meet strict safety and environmental standards, covering fees for inspection, weight tax, and mandatory insurance.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but shipping can become comparable or even better for very long trips, especially when factoring in the hidden costs of driving like time off work, wear and tear, potential breakdowns, lodging, food, and tolls. Driving saves on direct shipping fees but adds indirect costs, while shipping costs more upfront but preserves your time and vehicle's condition, making the "cheaper" option depend heavily on your personal financial situation and priorities.

For Private importers: The private package is $2400 NZD plus Clean Car tax and any GST applied if the vehicle is shipped to any of the main ports and delivered within the metropolitan area. If delivery is out of the metropolitan areas, there will be extra transport charges applicable.