Customs Fees, Port Charges & Hidden Costs – What to Expect
Customs Fees, Port Charges & Hidden Costs – What to Expect
When importing a JDM vehicle that’s 25 years or older, the upfront price is only part of the equation. Once the vehicle leaves Japan and arrives at a U.S. port, you’ll need to be prepared for a variety of additional costs that can impact your total budget. This guide breaks down what to expect so there are no surprises.
1. U.S. Customs Fees
After your vehicle arrives at a U.S. port (such as Jacksonville, FL), you’ll need to clear it through customs. These are the standard fees:
Import Duty:
2.5% of the declared value of the vehicle (based on the bill of sale or commercial invoice)Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF):
Usually 0.3464% of the value of the vehicle, with a minimum of $31.67 and a maximum of $614.35 (as of 2025 rates)Harbor Maintenance Fee (if applicable):
Applies to some container shipments; generally 0.125% of the value of the shipment
These fees must be paid before the vehicle can be released to you or your designated agent.
2. Customs Broker Fees
Most importers hire a licensed customs broker to handle paperwork, filings, and communication with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This is optional but highly recommended.
Typical broker fees:
$300–$600 for standard vehicle clearance
May include filing of CBP Form 7501, EPA Form 3520-1, and DOT Form HS-7
Some brokers charge additional fees for:
ISF filing (for containerized shipments)
Bond purchase (if required for certain ports or shipments)
3. Port Charges & Handling Fees
After customs clearance, your vehicle will be released by the port but there are handling and storage fees involved:
Terminal Handling Charges:
Usually $100–$200 depending on the port and carrierVehicle Storage Fees:
Ports typically offer 2–5 free days after arrival. After that, expect to pay $25–$50 per day for storage.Gate or Release Fees:
Some ports may charge a fee for physically releasing the vehicle to a carrier or transporter
If the vehicle was shipped via container, you may also face:
Container devanning (unloading) charges
Container inspection or cleaning fees
4. Inland Transportation Costs
Unless you’re picking the vehicle up yourself at the port, you’ll need a domestic transporter to deliver it to your home or business.
Average transport rates (open trailer):
Local (same state): $150–$400
Regional (East Coast to Southeast): $400–$800
Cross-country: $900–$1,500+
Closed transport (for high-value or rare imports) may cost 25–50% more.
5. DMV & State Registration Fees
Once your vehicle is in your possession, you’ll need to register and title it in your state.
Common costs include:
Title fee: $75–$120 (varies by state)
Registration fee: $60–$150
VIN verification or inspection fee: $20–$50
Sales tax: May apply based on your bill of sale
Important: Some states require a notarized bill of sale, translation of Japanese export documents, or proof of customs clearance (CBP Form 7501).
6. Optional but Recommended Costs
Third-party pre-purchase inspection (Japan): $150–$300
Document translation (Export Certificate, etc.): $50–$100
Escrow service (for secure payment handling): Often 1–3% of transaction value
Final Thoughts
While it’s easy to focus on the vehicle’s purchase price, smart buyers plan for the full landed cost which includes everything from customs duties to delivery. This is especially important if you’re working with a tight budget or trying to hit a specific price point.
At Nexus JDM Imports, we help clients account for all these costs upfront. We work with trusted partners for shipping, customs, and delivery to ensure your vehicle arrives legally, safely, and on budget.
Want a transparent quote with no hidden surprises?
Contact us today and we’ll walk you through the real numbers based on your vehicle and port destination.
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