United Kingdom.
Import with clarity.

Importing a vehicle from Japan to the United Kingdom has become increasingly popular due to the excellent condition, low mileage, and high specifications of Japanese vehicles. Since both Japan and the UK use right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, most Japanese imports are well suited to UK roads.

However, imported vehicles must comply with UK customs, taxation, vehicle approval, and registration requirements before they can be legally driven.

Yes. The UK allows both new and used vehicles to be imported from Japan. However, every imported vehicle must comply with customs requirements, vehicle approval rules (where applicable), and registration with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

There is no maximum vehicle age restriction for importing a vehicle into the UK. However, vehicle age affects the approval process.

Since the UK drives on the left-hand side of the road: ✅ Right-Hand Drive vehicles are ideal. Japanese domestic vehicles are already manufactured in RHD configuration, making them particularly attractive to UK buyers.

Left-Hand Drive vehicles are also legal but may require modifications and are generally less desirable in the UK market.

Many imported vehicles under ten years old require an IVA inspection before registration. The inspection checks compliance with UK safety standards, including:

• Braking systems
• Lighting
• Seat belts
• Mirrors
• Steering
• Speedometer
• Vehicle identification
• Safety equipment After passing the IVA, the vehicle can proceed with DVLA registration.

Vehicles over three years old generally require a valid MOT certificate before they can be used on UK roads. The MOT covers:

• Brakes
• Suspension
• Steering
• Lights
• Tyres
• Emissions
• Seat belts
• General roadworthiness

Depending on the vehicle, modifications may include:

• Speedometer displaying mph (or mph with km/h)
• Rear fog light installation (if not already fitted)
• Lighting adjustments
• Indicators meeting UK standards
• Other compliance modifications required during IVA Many Japanese vehicles require only minor changes because they are already right-hand drive.

Imported vehicles may be subject to:

• Customs Duty (where applicable)
• Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Port handling charges
• Customs clearance fees
• DVLA registration fee
• Vehicle Excise Duty (Road Tax) The total amount depends on:
• Vehicle value
• Country of manufacture
• Shipping costs
• Insurance
• Current UK customs rules Some Japanese-built vehicles may qualify for preferential customs treatment under the UK–Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) if all origin requirements are met. VAT and other charges may still apply. Always confirm the latest position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) or your customs agent before purchase.

Typical documents include:

• Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Japanese Export Certificate
• Purchase Invoice
• Customs Declaration
• Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA)
• IVA Certificate (if applicable)
• MOT Certificate (where required)
• Proof of Identity
• Proof of Address Additional documents may be requested depending on the vehicle and import circumstances.

Japanese vehicles commonly arrive at:

• Southampton
• Bristol
• Liverpool
• Felixstowe
• London Gateway After arrival, the vehicle must complete customs clearance before registration.

1. Choose your vehicle in Japan. 2. Confirm the vehicle meets UK import requirements. 3. Purchase the vehicle. 4. Arrange export documentation. 5. Ship the vehicle to the UK. 6. Complete customs clearance. 7. Submit the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) to HMRC. 8. Complete IVA testing if required. 9.

Obtain an MOT if applicable. 10. Register the vehicle with the DVLA. 11. Pay Vehicle Excise Duty. 12. Obtain motor insurance before driving.

Japanese imports are highly sought after because they offer:

• Low mileage
• Excellent maintenance history
• High specifications
• Strong reliability
• Unique models unavailable through UK dealerships
• Competitive prices
• Right-hand drive compatibility

At 360 Moto Japan, we assist UK customers with:

• Japanese vehicle sourcing
• Live auction bidding
• Independent vehicle inspections
• Export documentation
• RoRo and container shipping
• Freight quotations
• Personal Buying Agent services
• End-to-end export support from Japan to the United Kingdom

The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and is based on regulations available at the time of publication.

Import laws, customs duties, taxes, vehicle eligibility, inspection requirements, shipping procedures, and registration rules may change without prior notice and may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), and other relevant UK authorities before purchasing or importing a vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or error-free and accept no liability for any changes in regulations or additional costs incurred after purchase.