JapanCarDirect.com - Frequently Asked Questions
JapanCarDirect.com
The Bidding Process
Costs and Charges
JapanCarDirect.com
What is JapanCarDirect.com?
JapanCarDirect.com (JCD) is a used vehicle export business, and proxy bidding service based in Chiba Japan. The JCD web site is updated daily with a selection of the highest graded, lowest mileage vehicles at auction each week. Customers have access to their own log in page where the model(s) they’re looking for are listed with photos, auction house inspection reports, inspection report translations and a full explanation of each vehicle. JCD operates under an "open book" policy, so that customers have access to all documentation in relation to their purchase of vehicles.
Back to Top
Can I talk to someone directly?
Yes, you can contact us by phone, fax, or e-mail. Please see our contact information page.
Back to Top
What currency are prices listed in?
All prices are shown in Japanese yen. There is a currency calculator available here to convert the yen price into your local currency.
Back to Top
Does JCD accept payment in currencies other than Japanese yen?
Yes, JCD accepts payment in Japanese, US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, British and Euro funds. Please see our bank information here.
Back to Top
Does JCD export vehicles other than cars?
Yes, JCD handles , a variety of, buses, campers and construction equipment. One of the auctions to which we gained membership specializes in smaller sized forklifts, shovels, bulldozers, cranes and a large variety of trucks, including mixers, fire trucks, car transporters, dump trucks etc.
Back to Top
Can I use your service to import Japan domestic market (JDM) vehicles if I am a private buyer, and not a car dealer?
Of course JCD is happy to assist anybody interested in JDM cars. However, please be aware that some countries have restrictions in place which only allow for importation of vehicles by licensed dealers. Please check with your local government agencies and familiarize yourself with the import procedures and government/custom regulations in the country of destination, not limited to, but including regulations on emissions, age of vehicle, steering, aftermarket equipment and any vehicle testing necessary before importation. Please see the following link for regional information on importing vehicles: http://japan-used-car-exporting.info/import/importing-process.html
Back to Top
Do you sell vehicles to customers from the USA?
Yes, but due to the 25 year rule and prohibitive registration regime, we only export classic cars, 25 years and older. We also export “parts cars” that can not be registered for driving, as well as clips and engines.
Back to Top
Are there left-hand-drive (LHD) vehicles at auction?
Yes, there are Mercedes, BMWs and other foreign vehicles with left hand steering.
Back to Top
How does JCD evaluate the vehicles at auction?
First of all, we use the auction house inspection reports, and select the best condition lowest mileage vehicles each week. These vehicles are then put up on the customer’s pages of the JCD site. After you select a car(s) for bidding, we will have one of the professional vehicle evaluators that are employed by each of the auction houses do a further hands on inspection, and answer all of our questions about the vehicle. For the auction houses in our area, our staff will do the hands on inspection. When a vehicle meets all of our customer’s expectations, JCD will place a bid on the customer’s behalf.
Back to Top
How can I be sure that the vehicle I want to bid on has not been involved in an accident?
The Japanese car auctions list information regarding the condition of all parts of the car on the inspection report, including the condition of all the panels, members, pillars, radiator core support and whether the vehicle has experienced an accident (minor or major). All parts that have been replaced are also noted on the inspection report.
Back to Top
How can I be sure that the mileage/odometer on the vehicle I want to bid on is accurate?
Each vehicle in Japan has its odometer reading recorded every two years during the mandatory vehicle inspection (shaken), as well as each time the car is auctioned. When the vehicle comes to auction and there is a discrepancy between the odometer reading and the current shaken or previous auction records, it is noted on the inspection report for all to see.
Back to Top
Is there any additional fee for a hands on vehicle inspection?
Not if our staff does the inspection, but if the auction house staff perform this service, they charge 1,500 yen which is added to the final winning bid of the vehicle. Due to the extensive network of auction houses across Japan, making use of their professional vehicle evaluators gives our customers access to the best selection of the highest quality vehicles available every day.
Back to Top
Do you do maintenance work on the vehicles?
No, we do not do any maintenance work on the vehicles. All vehicles purchased at auction are sent to the customer as is. We select only the best condition vehicles, and have them delivered directly to you at the lowest possible price.
Back to Top
What are your terms and conditions for buying a car?
Please view the JCD terms and conditions here.
Back to Top
I would like to know the correct date and time in Japan.
Every JCD page has the correct date and time at the top.
Back to Top
Can you do steering conversion from RHD to LHD, or export the parts for this conversion?
No, we neither do steering conversions nor supply parts for conversion to left hand drive steering. The main reason is that we simply do not have such parts as both LHD and RHD vehicles are driven in Japan. Our customers from countries that restrict RHD vehicles find these parts by themselves in their local markets and have conversions done.
Back to Top
What are the most popular Japan domestic market (JDM) vehicles to be exported?
It depends on the country of export, but a lot of the high powered sports cars like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, 300ZX, Mazda RX 7, and Toyota Supra are very popular. Also Lexus class cars that have been sold under the Toyota brand until 2006 such as the Soarer, Aristo and Celsior and 4by4 trucks like Landcruiser and Mitsubishi Pajero. As well, a large number of Mercedes, BMW and Volvo models are exported regularly.
Back to Top
The Bidding Process
What is proxy bidding?
Proxy bidding is a system that allows you to bid the maximum amount you are willing to pay for a vehicle with the possibility of winning the vehicle for less. Your bid is kept secret from all other bidders as the auction proceeds. The system will automatically enter your lowest possible winning bid and continue to increase your bid until your maximum bid is reached. If all other bidders stop bidding before your maximum bid is reached, you will win the vehicle for the amount of the final bid plus a standard 3,000 yen increment. You pay the lowest possible winning bid and do not have to pay the full amount of your maximum bid. If there are two or more identical “winning” bids the bid that was placed first will win the vehicle.
Back to Top
What is JapanCarDirect.com's client site?
JapanCarDirect.com has developed an additional secure site to provide JCD customers with a better car buying experience. Through the use of the client-only website, JCD can provide personalized information on a user by user basis. After transferring a down payment to JCD, you will be given a log in name and access to an exclusive page where vehicles are posted for your personal evaluation.
Back to Top
Why make a client site?
First and foremost JCD is committed to providing its customers with the best possible on line car buying experience possible. By creating a site that allows each JCD customer personalized content, we aim to make your car selection experience easier and more enjoyable. JCD strives to find vehicles that meet the requirements of each customer. We do this by selecting only the highest quality auction vehicles that match our customers' specifications and posting them on the Client Site. Additionally, the high volume of quality cars at auction can result in many cars matching a user's requests. With JCD's client site, you will be able to inspect vehicles with ease and make an informed decision about bidding. By using the tools available to all JCD visitors, JCD took the extra step to provide clear, updated and personalized information for our clients.
Back to Top
How do I bid through the Client Site?
When you find a vehicle that you would like JCD to bid on for you, all you need to do is click a button. When you log into your personal page you will see the upcoming auction vehicles that JCD has matched to your specifications. Clicking on one of these will provide you with an inspection report, inspection report translation and full details about each vehicle. If you would like to bid on an auction vehicle press the “Bid On This Car” link at the bottom of the vehicle's page. Enter your password and your bid in Japanese yen. Click Submit and JCD will be alerted by email and go to auction for you.
Back to Top
Is the Client Site Secure?
During all stages of business, JCD treats our visitors' and clients' personal information with the strictest confidence. The JCD's Client Site is no exception. As a client of JapanCarDirect.com you are provided with a unique login name and password to our secure Client Site. However, despite JCD's best efforts, we need your help to provide you with a secure user experience. JCD strongly suggests the following measures to help you use our Client Site and provide you with the most security possible. 1) The Client Site allows you to change your password whenever and to whatever you desire. JCD requests that all users change their password from the default password provided for your first login. To pick a secure password make sure your password is at least 6 characters long, and a mix of letters and numbers. Try not to use any publicly available information about you such as birthdays, names, telephone numbers, etc., as they are not considered secure. 2) Do not leave your computer while logged in to the JCD Client Site. If you must leave your computer while logged in, close your web browser. This will break the connection to the Client Site and keep your account safe.
Back to Top
How do I use JCD’s proxy bidding and vehicle export service?
Please fill in an information request form and deposit 100,000 yen or equivalent for a bid of up to 500,000 yen, and an additional 100,000 yen for each increase of 500,000 yen in the amount of the bid, into a JCD bank account. After you pay your deposit by telegraphic transfer (TT), please fax or scan and e-mail a copy of the remittance to JCD. Upon confirmation of your deposit, we will post the best condition, lowest mileage vehicles on your log in page for viewing. When you see a vehicle that you want to purchase, place a bid and JCD will have a further hands on inspection done, and answer any questions you have about the vehicle before bidding on it for you. After a successful bid, JCD will arrange for shipping, and courier you the necessary documents to take possession of your vehicle.
Back to Top
Do you accept payment by credit card or letter of credit?
No, JCD requests that all customers pay by telegraphic transfer (TT).
Back to Top
Is my deposit refundable?
Yes your deposit is fully refundable less bank and bidding fees.
Back to Top
How much are bank and bidding fees?
The bank fees for a telegraphic transfer (TT) is 2,500 yen, and on line bidding fees are 400 yen/bid. When our staff attend the auctions in our area there are no bidding fees.
Back to Top
Can I make a deposit to a different bank, closer to my location?
Unfortunately bank deposits can only be made through one of JCD’s designated banks accounts. Any major bank at your location will be able to assist you in making a telegraphic transfer (TT).
Back to Top
When is the best time to bid on vehicles?
Different vehicles can be viewed every week on the JCD home page and on your JCD log in page, which has vehicles selected for your viewing. All of the vehicles are listed with the date of auction. Bids are accepted up until 9:00am (Japan time) the morning of the auction. We can then do a hands on inspection of the vehicle or have an auction house staff evaluator perform one, and all of our questions answered before deciding whether to bid on that vehicle.
Back to Top
If another JCD customer bids on the same vehicle, and we both have a winning bid, who gets the vehicle?
If more than one JCD customer has a qualifying bid on a vehicle purchased by JCD, the customer who bid first will receive the vehicle.
Back to Top
How many vehicles can I bid on?
You may bid on as many vehicles as you wish, but your deposit of 100,000 yen only covers one successful purchase. We will bid on the cars that you have selected in the order that they come to auction until we have a winning bid. If you wish to purchase more vehicles, we must have your deposit of 100,000 yen for each vehicle.
Back to Top
When are the auctions held?
The vehicles are auctioned daily from Monday to Saturday. Most of the auctions are held from 11:00am - 3:00pm, but some finish at 7:00 or 8:00pm. We will do our best to bid on more than one vehicle for you per day after getting the results of each bid. When we are unsuccessful in the first bid we will bid again on the same day when time allows depending on the order your selected vehicles come to the auction floor.
Back to Top
None of my bids are high enough. Can you give me some bidding guidelines?
The approximate cost at auction is listed in the header above each vehicle. This information is taken from the history of vehicles of the same model and year, purchased at auction in the previous three months. If you bid near the upper price, your chances are very good of being successful. Of course, if the final bid at auction is lower than your bid, you will only pay the final bid plus 3,000 yen. For example, if you bid 200,000 yen, and the final bid at the auction house is 180,000 yen, you will pay 183,000 yen for the vehicle. 3,000 yen is the standard increment that bids are increased by.
Back to Top
Is there a minimum number of cars that I must purchase?
No. There is no minimum, but if you are not bidding regularly, your account may be deactivated and your deposit refunded minus bank and bidding fees.
Back to Top
Can I see the actual auction house invoice after a successful bid?
Yes, all documentation including the auction house invoice will be either scanned and e-mailed or faxed to you after a successful bid.
Back to Top
How will I know the results of my bid?
You will be notified by e-mail on the same day of the auction. Occasionally there are delays in notification. Please wait 24 hours, and if you still haven’t received confirmation of your bidding results, please e-mail JCD.
Back to Top
I have just received e-mail confirming my successful bid(s). What happens next?
Please transfer the indicated monies to a JCD bank account by telegraphic transfer (TT) within 48 hours. If you do not intend to continue purchasing vehicles through JCD you can deduct your deposit from the final payment. E-mail or fax us a copy of the TT remittance and we will arrange for shipping, and courier you the necessary documents to take possession of your vehicle.
Back to Top
What shipping documents will I receive?
-Bill of Sale
-Bill of Lading
-Customs invoice
-Japanese deregistration/export certificate
-English translation of deregistration/export certificate
Back to Top
If I purchase a vehicle from JCD and need some parts sometime in the future, will you supply the parts?
Yes. JCD will be happy to provide you with whatever parts you require to the best of our ability. We can purchase new, used and OEM compliant parts and, send them to you at your expense.
Back to Top
Can you tell me what auction a vehicle is at?
No, the auction houses request that their location be kept confidential, but we can tell you how much the domestic transportation charge will be from the auction house to the port that your vehicle will be shipped from. After a successful bid we can inform you of the auction house’s name and location.
Back to Top
Can I view the inspection report for each vehicle?
Yes, all of the vehicles on the JCD site are listed with their Japanese inspection reports and written translations.
Back to Top
Are there any cases when a vehicle presented at auction does not get sold?
Yes, there are many cases where bidding doesn’t meet the owner’s minimum price and the vehicle isn’t sold at the auction. About 40% of all units usually don’t sell. Auctions are held weekly so owners usually put them back in the next week or at another auction later in the same week.
Back to Top
Costs and Charges
What are the CIF export cost and JCD service charges if my bid is successful?
The CIF cost depends on the method of transport, size of the vehicle and the destination port. The service charge is a flat rate of 75,000 yen per vehicle, regardless of the vehicle’s price at auction. The approximate CIF price will be confirmed with the customer in the form of a pro forma invoice, before a bid is placed.
Back to Top
Can JCD ship a vehicle FOB instead of CIF?
Yes. Please write that you would like the vehicle shipped FOB in the questions/comments section of the information request form, and we will do our utmost to accommodate your request.
Back to Top
What are all of the costs charged for a vehicle purchased through JCD?
The total cost for a vehicle sent CIF includes the price of the vehicle at auction, auction house fee, recycling charge, domestic transportation, customs clearance, loading of the vehicle onto the ship, international shipping, insurance, document courier fee, bank fees, bidding fees, and JCD’s service fee which includes the charge for deregistration of the vehicle. All of the related paper work is made available to the customer at all times, under JCD's "open book" policy. If you have the vehicle shipped FOB, you will be responsible for the international shipping charge. After filling in an information request form, all customers will receive a pro forma invoice of the approximate total cost of purchasing a vehicle of your choice through JCD.
Back to Top
How is the international freight charge calculated?
Freight is calculated based on the size of a vehicle when sent individually and or the number of vehicles sent in one shipping container determines the cost of shipping. When shipping vehicles RORO the cost is determined by the size of the vehicle in square meters. The prices also vary with the port of destination and the shipping line used. The approximate cost of shipping will be included on a pro forma invoice before JCD goes to auction on your behalf.
Back to Top
What are JCD's bank account details?
JCD has three accounts for direct transfer of different currencies. Other than the Account No., all of the information is identical as the accounts are with the same bank at the same address. Click here for account information.
Back to Top