Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Tokyo to Birmingham

Car Shipping from Japan to USA starts at a cost of $1,895 USD, depending on make and model of the vehicle and whether the destination in the USA is on the east or west coast. Below, our 2025 guide will explore everything you need to know about car shipping from Japan to the USA.

Japan's "3-year car rule" refers to the mandatory Shaken (vehicle inspection) system, where new cars get their first inspection after 3 years, then every 2 years, with the high cost and complexity encouraging many owners to trade in vehicles, creating a large used car market, especially for export. This cycle of frequent, costly checks and increasing taxes incentivizes high car turnover, unlike in countries where cars are kept longer.

You may save up to 50% on purchase price when you buy a new car abroad, but you will have to factor in shipping costs, import duty and up to 20% VAT. Consider also a nominal £2,000 for necessary modifications, registration and licensing of your newly imported vehicle once it arrives in the UK.