A clear, straightforward process from your first enquiry to your car arriving at your door. Here's exactly what happens — step by step.
Every import follows the same clear path — from your first message to your car in your driveway.
Everything starts with a conversation. Tell us what you're looking for — and we'll take it from there.
The more detail you can give us, the better we can help. But don't worry if you're not sure yet — we're happy to talk through options and give honest advice on what's achievable within your budget.
Once we know what you're after, we search trusted Japanese suppliers and auction houses for matching cars.
We'll vet the options, check grades and condition reports, and present you with the best matches — including photos, mileage, specification details and our honest assessment of each car.
Once you've approved the car, we handle the purchase, payment and export paperwork in Japan.
We manage the entire transaction — negotiating where appropriate, arranging payment securely, and ensuring all export documentation is in order before the car leaves Japan.
Your car is loaded and shipped from Japan to the UK. We keep you updated throughout the voyage.
Whether it's a shared container or a full container, we track the shipment and keep you informed of progress. Meanwhile, we prepare the UK customs and import paperwork in advance.
Your car arrives at the UK port, clears customs, and is delivered to your door anywhere in the UK.
We handle customs clearance, duty payments and final delivery. We'll also provide DVLA registration guidance so your imported car is road-legal and ready to enjoy.
Here's how the whole process fits together — from your first message to the moment your car arrives.
You share your requirements — make, model, spec, colour and budget. We answer any questions and give you honest advice about what's achievable.
Day 1We search trusted Japanese suppliers and auction houses, then present you with the best matches — including photos, grades, and full details.
1–3 WeeksOnce you approve the car, we handle the purchase, payment and export documentation in Japan — and confirm shipping arrangements.
1–2 WeeksYour car is loaded and shipped to the UK. We track the shipment, keep you updated, and prepare customs paperwork in advance.
4–8 WeeksCustoms cleared, duties paid and delivery arranged to your door. We'll also provide DVLA registration guidance so your car is road-legal.
1–2 WeeksThree things to think about before starting your import — it helps things run even more smoothly.
Let us know your realistic maximum budget including all fees — this helps us focus on cars that genuinely fit rather than wasting time on cars that don't.
The more specific you are about model, spec, colour and mileage, the faster we can narrow down options. Tell us your "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves".
Most imports take 6–12 weeks from start to finish. Some move faster, some slower — good things come to those who wait, especially with JDM cars.
Answers to the questions we get asked most often about the import process.
Typical timelines vary depending on the vehicle and shipping method, but most imports take between 6–12 weeks from sourcing to UK delivery. We'll give you a clear estimate once we understand your requirements.
The more detail, the better. Ideally: make, model, year range, spec, colour preference, transmission, mileage limits, and your budget. Any "must-haves" or "nice-to-haves" also help us narrow down the search.
Yes. We only purchase a car after you've approved it. During the sourcing phase, we'll present you with options and give you time to decide. There's no obligation until you're happy to proceed.
We work with reputable Japanese suppliers and always provide full details, grades and photos before purchase. If anything isn't as described when the car arrives, we'll do everything we can to resolve it — that's part of our promise to you.
Yes — export documentation in Japan, UK customs clearance, duty calculations, NOVA declarations and DVLA registration support. You don't need to deal with HMRC or customs directly.
Simply contact us by phone, WhatsApp, email, or through the contact form. Tell us what you're looking for and your budget, and we'll take it from there.
Get in touch today and let's find the ideal Japanese car for you.
NSJ Imports Ltd · Bolton, BL3 6LF · 07394 579817 · nsjimportsltd@outlook.com