Import Cars from Japan to Australia
Quick Answer: Importing a car from Japan to Australia typically costs A$19,500–23,000 for a vehicle purchased at around ¥1,000,000 (≈A$10,000 in Japan). The process has six steps: check eligibility → apply for VIA → purchase in Japan → shipping → compliance → registration. Glam Groups manages the entire journey for you.
At Glam Groups, we bring over 22 years of expertise in importing and certifying Japanese vehicles for Australian roads. Fully backed by our Registered Automotive Workshop Approval, Testing Facility Approval, a Motor Car Trader’s License, and Second-Hand Dealer registration, we ensure every vehicle meets the highest standards. From inspections to customs clearance, we handle the entire process with precision. Our commitment to quality, efficiency, and compliance makes importing a smooth, stress-free experience.
Import Cars from Japan to Melbourne
If you’re based in Melbourne, Glam Groups makes the process of importing a Japanese car seamless. We manage the full journey — from sourcing and shipping to compliance and registration with VICRoads. Whether you’re bringing in a JDM classic or a family SUV, we ensure your vehicle meets all Victorian requirements so you can drive legally and stress-free.
How Much Does It Cost to Import a Car from Japan?
Estimated Landed Cost Example (¥1,000,000 ≈ AUD 10,000)
| Item | Typical Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Purchase (¥1M) | 10,000 |
| Shipping (RoRo vs Container) | 3,000 – 4,500 |
| Marine Insurance | ≈200 |
| Customs Duty (~10% CIF) | 1,300 |
| GST (10% of customs-inclusive) | 1,430 |
| Customs Clearance & Quarantine | 400 – 800 |
| ADR Compliance & Modifications | 3,000 – 4,500 |
| Registration & On-road Costs | ≈1,200 |
| Brokerage/Admin Fees | 200 – 500 |
| Total Estimate | 19,500 – 22,900 |
Note: Luxury Car Tax (LCT) may apply to vehicles over AUD 71,849 (fuel-efficient) or AUD 84,916 (other). Always budget an additional 10–15% buffer for unforeseen costs.
Shipping options: RoRo is usually the best value (from around A$3,000).
Container shipping adds protection for higher-value cars but costs about 30–40% more.
Shipping costs vary depending on whether you use RoRo or container shipping — see our full comparison.
The final price of an imported car isn’t just about what you pay in Japan. By the time the vehicle arrives in Melbourne and is ready for the road, a typical purchase of around ¥1,000,000 (roughly AUD 10,000) will usually land between AUD 19,500 and AUD 23,000. That figure includes shipping, customs duty, GST, quarantine, ADR compliance, registration and other admin costs.
Every car is a little different — shipping methods, compliance work and exchange rates all affect the final bill. To be safe, it’s smart to budget an extra 10–15% buffer on top of the estimate. That way, if there are quarantine delays, storage fees, or extra compliance modifications, you’re covered without any surprises.
Step-by-Step Car Import Process
Step 1 – Check Vehicle Eligibility
Confirm if your car qualifies under SEVS, the 25-year rule, or another pathway. See our Import Eligibility Guide.
Step 2 – Apply for Vehicle Import Approval (VIA)
Submit your application through the ROVER system. We handle the paperwork to save you time. Read our VIA process guide.
Step 3 – Purchase & Arrange Shipping
We help you bid at Japanese auctions or buy from trusted dealers. Shipping options include RoRo for value or container for protection.
Step 4 – Customs & Quarantine
Our team manages customs clearance, GST, and quarantine checks, including asbestos testing where required.
Step 5 – ADR Compliance & Modifications
Once landed, your vehicle is modified to meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs) — covering emissions, lights, and safety features.
Step 6 – Registration & Delivery
After compliance is signed off, we organise VICRoads registration and final delivery to your driveway.
Import Eligibility & SEVS Schemes
Not every car from Japan can be brought into Australia — it must fall under an approved import pathway. For most modern vehicles, this is done through the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS), which allows unique or rare models not sold new in Australia. Another option is the 25-year rule, which makes older classics eligible without SEVS approval.
If you’re unsure about your vehicle, start with our Import Eligibility Guide to see if it qualifies and what documentation you’ll need before applying for import approval.
Browse Our Importing Cars.
Toyota Crown GWS214
Honda Vezel RU3
Nissan Xtrail HT32
Suzuki Spacia Customs MK54S
Suzuki Jimny JB64W
Suzuki Solio Bandits
Honda Stepwgn Hybrid RP5
Toyota Century GZG50
Toyota Sienta NCP81
Lexus HS250h
audi e-tron
Honda N Box
Daihatsu Atrai
honda fit hybrid
honda stepwgn rp5
Lexus LS500
Mazda Axela hybrid
Nissan Serena GFC27
honda shuttle hybrid
Daihatsu Rocky
2016 toyota corolla fielder hybrid
Why Choose Glam Groups?
With over two decades in the industry, Glam Groups has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most trusted Japanese car import specialists. Here’s why car enthusiasts and everyday drivers choose us:
- 22+ years of proven experience in the Japanese car import industry
- 1,000+ vehicles successfully imported and delivered across Australia
- Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) accreditation
- Testing Facility Approval for compliance inspections
- Licensed Motor Car Trader & Second-Hand Dealer
- Full end-to-end service: sourcing, shipping, customs, compliance, registration
What Our Clients Say
Honest Company Testimonials – Find out Why They Love our Service
FAQs About Importing Cars from Japan
How long does it take to import a car?
On average, the whole process takes about 8 to 12 weeks.
That includes the VIA application, booking shipping, customs clearance,
and the time needed for ADR compliance and registration once it arrives.
What’s the cheapest way to ship a car from Japan?
Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is usually the most cost-effective, starting from
around AUD 3,000. Container shipping gives your vehicle extra protection but
costs 30–40% more. Still wondering which is cheaper — RoRo or container? Check our full guide on RoRo vs Container shipping.
Can I import any Japanese car?
Not every car is eligible. Modern vehicles generally need to qualify under the
SEVS scheme,
while older classics can come in under the 25-year rule.
It’s best to check our Eligibility Guide first.
Do I have to pay Luxury Car Tax?
Luxury Car Tax (LCT) only applies to higher-value vehicles.
In 2025, the threshold is AUD 71,849 for fuel-efficient cars and AUD 84,916 for others.
Most Japanese imports fall below this, but it’s worth checking before you buy.
What documents do I need to import a car?
You’ll need your Vehicle Import Approval (VIA),
the Japanese deregistration/export certificate, and the bill of sale.
Our team guides you through every step so nothing is missed.
Start Your Import Today
Ready to bring your dream car from Japan to Australia?
Our team will check your vehicle’s eligibility for free and guide you through the entire process,
from auction to your driveway.
Call us now on (03) 9303 7252
or use the quick form below to get your free eligibility check.
import vehicle list
Here is the approved import vehicle list if you want to import a vehicle to Australia. If you want more details on how to import a vehicle please contact us.
Schedule of Approved Vehicles
PIN – 10098
COMPANY NAME – GLAM
Please check this page on a desktop for a view.
Visit Us
21A, Dennis Street, Campbellfield,
Victoria, 3061
Glam Groups Pty Ltd
© 2018 Glam Groups Pty Ltd.
Our Mission is to provide integrity, honesty and quality service for our customers.
Digital Solution by Nimantha Dias
