RORO vs Container Shipping: Which Is Right for Your JDM Import?
Once you’ve found the perfect 25-year-old JDM car to import, the next big decision is how to ship it. The two most common options are RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) and container shipping. Both get your car from Japan to the U.S, but the method you choose affects your budget, timeline, and peace of mind.
Here’s a simple breakdown of both options so you can decide what works best for your goals and vehicle type.
What Is RORO Shipping?
RORO stands for Roll-On/Roll-Off. It’s a specialized ship where vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel and parked below deck, similar to a floating parking garage.
How it works:
Your car is driven onto the ship in Japan
Secured in place using straps and wheel chocks
Driven off when it arrives at a U.S. port like Jacksonville, FL
Best For:
Standard-sized vehicles
Budget-conscious importers
Cars that are already running and drivable
Pros of RORO Shipping
Lower cost: Typically $300–$800 cheaper than container shipping
Faster loading/unloading process
Widely available routes and schedules
No need to pay for wooden crating or shared container space
Cons of RORO Shipping
Open to handling risks: Your vehicle is accessible during transit and may be moved multiple times
Cannot include parts or accessories inside the vehicle
Only for operable, wheeled vehicles
Minimal protection from potential sea air exposure or port weather
What Is Container Shipping?
Container shipping involves loading your vehicle inside a sealed steel shipping container — either individually (20-foot) or shared with other cargo (40-foot).
How it works:
The car is placed in a container and secured using straps and bracing
Container is sealed and loaded onto a cargo ship
Opened only after reaching the destination port
Best For:
High-value vehicles (e.g., sports cars, collector vehicles)
Shipping spare parts along with the vehicle
Non-running cars
Those seeking extra protection during transit
Pros of Container Shipping
Maximum security: Vehicle is locked inside a sealed container
Can ship parts, wheels, or accessories inside the same load
Better protection from saltwater, theft, or scratches
Suitable for non-operable vehicles or modified builds
Cons of Container Shipping
Higher cost: Generally more expensive due to container rental, loading labor, and devanning fees
Longer preparation time: Container must be packed, loaded, and sometimes shared with other shipments
Limited availability for smaller ports
Can incur unloading delays at destination
Last thoughts
Your shipping method can make or break your JDM import experience. The right decision depends on the vehicle’s value, condition, and your comfort level with risk and budget.
Nexus JDM Imports helps guide you through the safest, most cost-effective route for your vehicle including coordinating the right shipping method for your needs.
Let us make sure your dream car arrives safely, legally, and affordably.
Contact us today to get started with your hassle free import
Email: admin@nexusjdmimport.com
www.nexusjdmimport.com
(Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, readers are encouraged to do their own due diligence and consult with a licensed customs broker, import specialist, or legal professional before making any financial or legal decisions related to vehicle imports.)
How Long Does It Take to Import a JDM Car? Full Timeline Breakdown
If you're thinking about importing a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicle into the U.S., one of the first things you might ask is:
How long does it take from start to finish?
The full process can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days, depending on a few key factors like the vehicle, shipping method, and how fast documents are handled. In this guide, we'll break down each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Vehicle Search & Inspection (7–14 Days)
Before anything is shipped, you need to find the right car — and make sure it’s in good shape.
Time estimate:
1 to 2 weeks for vehicle sourcing and confirmation
Add 2–3 days if a third-party inspection is requested
What happens during this step:
You (or your import agent) search for the right JDM vehicle
The car’s documents and eligibility under the 25-year rule are verified
Optional inspection checks for rust, frame damage, or other issues
Step 2: Purchase & Export Preparation (3–7 Days)
Once the car is selected, payment is made and the vehicle is prepared for export.
Time estimate:
3 to 7 days to finalize purchase and schedule shipping
Key steps:
Payment is processed through escrow or direct transfer
The exporter arranges deregistration in Japan
Required documents are collected (Export Certificate, invoice, etc.)
Step 3: Shipping from Japan to the U.S. (20–40 Days)
Now the car is loaded onto a ship and sent across the ocean.
Time estimate:
RORO shipping: 3 to 6 weeks depending on the shipping line and route
Container shipping: May take slightly longer due to extra loading and customs prep
Factors that affect this step:
Port congestion
Weather delays
Shipping frequency (some routes run weekly, others less often)
Step 4: U.S. Customs Clearance (3–7 Days)
Once the car arrives at a U.S. port (such as Jacksonville, FL), it needs to clear customs.
Time estimate:
3 to 7 business days with a customs broker
What’s required:
CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)
DOT Form HS-7 (25-Year Exemption)
EPA Form 3520-1 (Exemption Code “E”)
Translated documents from Japan
Hiring a licensed customs broker speeds up this process and ensures the car is legally cleared.
Step 5: Domestic Delivery & Registration (5–14 Days)
Once your vehicle clears customs, it’s ready to be picked up or delivered to your home.
Time estimate:
1 to 3 days for pickup or scheduling domestic transport
3 to 10 days to title and register, depending on your state
What’s needed to register:
Proof of customs clearance
Translated export documents
VIN inspection (varies by state)
Title and registration fees
Total Timeline: 30 to 90 Days
Here’s a summary of each step:
Step Estimated Time Vehicle Sourcing & Inspection 7–14 days
Purchase & Export Prep 3–7 days
Shipping 20–40 days
Customs Clearance 3–7 days
Delivery & Registration5–14 days
Total Time 30–90 days
Can It Be Faster?
Yes if:
The car is already prepared for export
You choose a port with frequent shipping
Documents are handled promptly
You hire an experienced import service
At Nexus JDM Imports, we help clients move through this process quickly by managing inspections, shipping, customs, and delivery all in one package.
Want to know exactly how long your JDM import will take?
Contact us today and we’ll walk you through a custom timeline based on your budget, location, and vehicle choice.
admin@nexusjdmimport.com
www.nexusjdmimport.com