How to Find and Buy Japanese Used Cars from Japan for Import to Australia (2026 Guide)
- AUTOSHIFT
- Apr 8
- 4 min read
Japanese used cars are loved all over the world, and with JDM vehicles in particular enjoying high demand and being exported across the global.
However, when it comes to importing a used car into Australia, the rules are very strict and the available information are surprisingly limited - making it difficult to know how to go about purchasing one.
In this article, we will break down How the people who lives in Australia can purchase a vehicle from Japan in a clear and simple way.
Japanese Car Auctions
Japan has more than 140 auto auction houses nationwide, with over 100,000 vehicles listed every single week.
Among them, USS Tokyo -one of the largest auto auctions in the world- offering over 15,000 vehicles every single week. Because so many JDM models appear in these auctions, buyers from all over the global gather to bid.
Now compare that to the average Australian auction, where a few hundred cars might be listed at any given time. There is simply no comparison. Japan's used car market isn't just bigger - it's in a completely different league.
Pros
You can choose from over 100,000 cars listed every week
There is a possibility of purchasing at a lower price
Since vehicles are inspected by professional auction inspectors, there is no risk of sellers hiding known issues
Cons
Only Japanese car dealers are able to place bids
There are some risks if you lack knowledge of cars
You are not guaranteed to win the car
The biggest advantage of buying through an auction is the ability to choose from over 100,000 vehicles listed every week.
In addition, since each vehicles is inspected by a third-party auction inspector, the likelihood of a seller concealing a mechanical issue is reduced.
However, it’s important to understand that the strictness of these inspections varies from one auction house to another. Without proper knowledge of auction grades, common issues, and how to read condition reports, buying from an auction can carry significant risks.
On top of that, Japanese car auctions are only open to licenced Japanese dealers, meaning that if you wish to purchase through an auction, you’ll need to work with a bidding agent or import specialist who can access the auctions on your behalf.
Our Trusted Partner Company
・JAPANESE USEDCAR.COM
Website for Export Buyers
There are many Japan‑based export websites that list domestic inventory specifically for overseas buyers.
Some of the most well‑known sites include BE FORWARD and GOONET EXCHANGE, both of which offer thousands of vehicles and provide international shipping support
Pros
Designed for overseas users, making it easy to navigate.
Full English support for smooth communication
Cars not in auctions may also appear.
You can purchase the car at listed price
Cons
Limited stock availability
Prices can be higher compared to auctions
These export websites are designed with international users in mind, offering full English support and allowing you to search and purchase cars from outside Japan with ease. For anyone buying a vehicle from Japan for the first time, they are one of the most user‑friendly options available.
However, there is one important point to keep in mind:
these websites will still provide quotes for cars that cannot be imported into Australia.
Just because a vehicle is listed and available for purchase does not mean it meets Australia’s strict import regulations.
That’s why it’s essential to check whether the car is eligible for import before making any purchase.
Japanese Export Sales Website
・BE FOWARD
・GOONET Exchange
Independent Dealers Selling JDM Cars Worldwide
In Japan, there are many independent dealers who use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to sell rare JDM cars to overseas buyers.
These dealers often handle vehicles that never appear on auctions or major export websites, giving buyers a chance to find truly unique models.
Pros
Able to find rare and unique vehicles
Many dealers can communicate in English
Detailed information through Video calls
Cons
Modified cars may require additional work to pass Australian compliance
Recommend Dealer
・ASAP
Risk of buying Cars from Japan
The very first things you should do is check whether the car can be imported or not,before you start searching for vehicles.
If you buy a car and later discover that it cannot be imported into Australia, you may be forced re-auction it in Japan - often at a lover price than what you paid.
On top of that, additional fees will be charged just to list it again.
If you plan to import a vehicle that is 25 years or older, you must also arrange an asbestos inspection before the car is loaded onto the ship. Australian ports require documentation proving that the vehicle is asbestos‑free.
If you skip the inspection in Japan, the car will be tested in Australia instead, which can cost over AUD $2,000. And if asbestos is detected, you could face significant fines and major delays.
When buying from auctions, it’s also risky to bid without understanding the differences between auction houses or how to read an auction sheet.
Each auction has its own grading standards, and misinterpreting them can lead to expensive mistakes.
If you’re purchasing through an auction, make sure to communicate clearly with your buyer or agent before placing any bids.
Why choose CARWHOLESALE JAPAN?
All of our staff are Japanese and fluent in both Japanese and English, which allows us to maintain clear and detailed communication with both Japanese companies and Australian businesses. This ensures that the entire import process runs smoothly from start to finish.
For example, if you find a car you want on BE FORWARD or GOONET, our team will step in between you and the Japanese seller to make sure everything proceeds correctly. We handle the communication, confirm the details, and guide the process so you can purchase with confidence.
In addition to assisting with the purchase itself, we also support customers who already have a specific car in mind. We take care of the Import Approval application, arrange compliance across any state in Australia, and provide full support until the vehicle is ready to drive on the road.
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