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.
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