Introduction
This guide explains how the total landed cost of importing a vehicle from Japan to Australia is calculated. It helps buyers understand every cost component involved before bidding at auction or purchasing a vehicle. While costs vary by vehicle, shipping method, and compliance pathway, this guide provides a clear and realistic budgeting framework.
What Is Total Landed Cost?
Total landed cost is the complete cost to legally purchase, import, comply, and register a vehicle in Australia. It covers everything from the auction hammer price in Japan through to receiving the number plates in your state or territory.
Understanding these costs upfront helps prevent surprises and ensures informed decision-making.
Main Cost Components
1. Vehicle Purchase Price
The auction hammer price or purchase price paid in Japan.
(Export, shipping, and Australian clearance fees are not included.)
2. Japan-Side Costs
Typical costs in Japan include:
- Auction house fees
- Export agent/broker fees
- Inland transport to the port
- Deregistration and export paperwork
- Mandatory pre-export cleaning for Australian biosecurity
3. International Shipping
Shipping cost varies by method and port:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Cost-effective; vehicle must be drivable
- Container shipping: More secure; ideal for high-value, collector, or non-running cars
4. Marine Insurance
Optional but recommended to protect the vehicle during transit.
5. DAFF Biosecurity Clearance
All vehicles must pass DAFF inspection on arrival.
Costs may include:
- DAFF inspection fee
- Cleaning or treatment if contamination is detected
- Reinspection fees if required
6. Customs Duty and GST
Australian taxes are calculated based on the vehicle’s Customs Value.
- Customs Duty: Typically 5% for passenger vehicles
- GST: 10% applied to (Customs Value + duty + shipping + insurance)
For a deeper explanation, see our guide to
Customs Duty and GST on imported cars.
7. Compliance Costs (ADR / RVS)
Compliance depends on the import pathway:
- SEVS / RAW (RVS Scheme)
- 25-year rule
- Personal import or specialty categories
Costs may include modifications, inspections, engineering certification, and RAV entry.
Learn more about ADR and RVS compliance.
8. State or Territory Registration
Final on-road costs typically include:
- Roadworthy inspection
- Engineering certificates (if required)
- Registration fees
- CTP insurance
- Number plates and stamp duty (state-dependent)
Example Landed Cost Breakdown
(Example only – actual figures vary)
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Purchase in Japan | $10,000 |
| Japan-side costs | $2,000 |
| Shipping (RoRo) | $2,500 |
| Insurance | $300 |
| DAFF inspection & cleaning | $400 |
| Duty & GST | $2,800 |
| Compliance & RAV entry | $2,500 |
| Registration & on-road costs | $1,200 |
| Estimated Total | $21,700 |
Why Costs Vary
- Vehicle size, weight, and classification
- Exchange rates
- Shipping method and port charges
- Vehicle condition and cleanliness
- Compliance pathway
- State-specific registration rules
Why a Pre-Bid Cost Assessment Matters
A detailed landed cost estimate helps buyers:
- Set realistic bidding limits
- Avoid cost overruns
- Compare vehicles effectively
- Understand the true ownership cost
How Glam Groups Can Help
Glam Groups provides accurate, transparent landed-cost estimates and manages the entire import process:
- Auction sourcing and bidding
- Export preparation
- Shipping coordination
- DAFF and customs clearance
- Compliance and RAV entry
- Registration support
We ensure transparency and accuracy so you can import with confidence.
Disclaimer
This guide is general information only. Costs vary by vehicle and may change over time. Always request a personalised quote for your specific import.
