Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Tokyo to Mexico City

If you are visiting Mexico on a tourist/visitor permit, you can import your foreign-plated vehicle to Mexico using a Temporary Import Permit (TIP).

Japan's "3-year car rule" refers to the mandatory, expensive vehicle inspection called Shaken, required for new cars three years after purchase, then every two years, ensuring safety and emissions compliance, which often leads owners to buy new cars due to high costs for older vehicles, though it's a myth cars are scrapped.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in gas, food, lodging, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle, making driving better for short trips and shipping often better for long, busy, or difficult trips. The decision balances cost, time, and convenience, as shipping saves you time and adds miles/wear, while driving costs less upfront but adds stress and expenses.