Japan Car Imports to New Zealand
Want to import cars from Japan to New Zealand? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re researching a once-off shipment, or you’re a dealer managing regular Japanese vehicle imports, we can help you ensure the process of bringing a JDM car to NZ is smooth and hassle-free. Our Kiwi team have been delivering an end-to-end import service for more than 25 years – so there’s not much in the Japanese auto import space that we don’t know.
Streamlined Japanese Car Imports for New Zealand Buyers
The process of importing cars from Japan to NZ involves more steps than most people expect. Compliance inspections, biosecurity requirements, customs documentation, and coordinating arrival at a New Zealand port – there’s a lot that can go wrong without the right freight partner behind you.
Jacanna is New Zealand-owned, people-led, and built on the belief that international freight doesn’t need to be complicated. You’ll deal with one dedicated account handler from your first contact through to invoicing – not a call centre, not a wholesaler, not a different person every time you ring.
Shipping Methods for Japan Car Imports
Roll-on Roll-off
The most straightforward and cost-effective option for most importers. Your vehicle is driven onto the vessel at the Japanese departure port and driven off on arrival in New Zealand – no container required. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable way to manage your Japan car import, RoRo is usually the place to start.
Container Shipping
If you’re shipping additional goods alongside your vehicle, container shipping may be the better fit. Your vehicle is loaded into a large intermodal container for the journey, offering added protection and the flexibility to include other items in the same shipment.
Not Sure Which to Choose?
The right method depends on factors like what else you’re shipping, your timeline, and your budget. We’re happy to give advice and no-obligation quotes to help you make the right call.
Why Buyers Choose Jacanna for Japanese Auto Imports
We pride ourselves on offering a streamlined, stress-free service to our customers. After 20+ years in the industry, we hold direct contracts with major shipping lines. When you book with us to import a car from Japan, your space is confirmed – not subject to last-minute bumping or sudden surcharges driven by market fluctuations.
What sets us apart:
- Guaranteed space on vessels – your cargo moves when it’s supposed to
- Stable, competitive pricing through direct carrier agreements
- One dedicated account handler from first enquiry through to invoicing
- Kiwi-owned and operated – we’re on the ground and available when you need us
- Full documentation support for Japanese auto import compliance requirements
- Vehicle tracking and specialist insurance coverage included
For a full overview of how vehicle imports work, visit our Vehicle Shipping page.
Track Your Japan Car Import in Real Time
Stay informed throughout the entire shipping process with Jacanna’s online tracking tools. From the moment your vehicle is received at the departure yard through to arrival in New Zealand, you can monitor its progress in real time – making it easy to stay on top of documentation and payment deadlines.
Your Vehicle is Covered from the Moment It Moves
Jacanna provides specialist insurance coverage for import cars from Japan to NZ at no cost to you – tailored specifically to meet the needs of vehicle importers.
Your vehicle is protected against:
- Fire
- Pilfering
- Stranding
- General average
- Mishandling
- Theft
- Earthquake
- Sinking
- Collision (whilst driven incidental to loading and unloading)
For full details, visit our Insurance page.
Our global network keeping us connected
Working with shipping agents all across the world, our global network keeps us connected to seaports and airports everywhere, ensuring a truly international freight forwarding service.
Haven’t found what you’re looking for?
Frequently asked questions
Transit times vary depending on origin port and vessel schedule – your account handler will give you a realistic timeline upfront.
All vehicles must meet NZTA entry certification standards and pass a biosecurity inspection on arrival. Depending on the vehicle’s age and specifications, additional modifications may be required to meet New Zealand road standards. We’ll walk you through what applies to your specific vehicle.
Yes. Jacanna works with both private buyers and commercial importers. Whether this is a one-off purchase or you’re managing ongoing Japanese auto import volumes, the process and support is the same.
Get in touch with our team and we’ll provide a clear, all-inclusive quote. No vague estimates, no hidden fees added later. What we quote is what you pay.