FAQ

No. Japanese auctions are open to licensed dealers only, so we are the buyer at the auction and you buy through us. A free account is all you need to bid.

Cars at least 25 years old, counted to the month of manufacture, are exempt from DOT and EPA rules. Right now that means 2001 and older, depending on the month. Every listing shows whether the car is eligible; cars close to the line are checked by hand before we bid.

We work with US buyers and US ports for now. If you are in another country, ask us in the chat and we will tell you what is possible.

You set the most you are willing to pay. Our agent in Japan bids for you during the live auction and stops at your maximum. If the car sells for less, you pay the lower price.

The start price is where bidding opens; it is usually far below what the car sells for. Some sellers also keep a reserve they do not show. The average sale price on each lot and the sale statistics show what similar cars really went for.

When you bid we hold 10% of your maximum bid (at least $500) from your account balance. If you do not win, the hold is released in full. If you win, it becomes your first payment.

Yes, until our agent places it at the auction. Once a car is won the purchase is final, because the auction house does not cancel sales.

Grade 5 and S are close to new, 4.5 and 4 are clean cars with light wear, 3.5 and 3 show more use or repairs, and R or RA means the car has had accident repairs. The auction sheet guide explains every grade and damage code.

Auction cars cannot be test-driven. You get the photos and the auction sheet, written by the auction inspector. Send us the lot in the chat and we will go through the sheet with you before you bid.

Auction cars are sold as-is. Plan a little money for service and small repairs after arrival, especially on older cars.

The car, auction and Japan-side costs, ocean freight, our fee, US customs duties and fees, and delivery if you choose it. Each part is shown as its own line on the lot page.

We work to keep your invoice at the number you saw. Our fee, freight and the Japan-side costs do not change after you win. Duties and port fees are confirmed by US customs when the car arrives, so they can move a little; we pass them on at cost, without markup.

After you win, the invoice appears in your account with payment instructions. The balance is due before the car reaches the US port, so it can clear customs without storage charges.

Usually 6 to 10 weeks from the auction: 1 to 3 weeks in Japan for transport and export papers, 3 to 6 weeks at sea, then customs and delivery. Vessel schedules change, so dates are estimates.

Yes. Every stage, from pickup at the auction to delivery, appears on the timeline in your account.

The Japanese export certificate with an English translation and the stamped US customs entry. Your state uses them to title the car. Requirements differ by state, so check with your DMV before the car arrives.

Yes, right-hand drive is legal in the US. Some states limit where kei trucks and vans may be driven on public roads, so check your state rules for those.