Importing your Kei Truck | Kei Truck Customs Broker

Guide to importing Cars from Japan: Kei and JDM to USA

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Rise of the Kei's in America. Why are they so popular!

Kei trucks also known as mini trucks are gaining popularity in the U.S. due to their affordability, compactness, and versatility, especially for small businesses, farmers, and individuals seeking a practical, affordable vehicle. Their small size makes them easier to maneuver and park, while their fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs are attractive to many. This is the reason why many Americans are looking to own on of these fun sized trucks from Japan, and here at Kei Truck Customs Broker we specialize in customs broker service if you are looking to import your Kei or JDM from Japan.

Step by Step Guide to Importing:

1. Look for a Reputable Dealer / Broker to buy your Car

The first step is to find a car dealer from Japan which has a good reputation or aggregate reviews to ensure the car you are looking to buy meets the first checklist that they have a good history with prior customers who bought from them. While it is not a guarantee that there will be no issues from a reputable dealer, but the chances of a negative experience would be minimized that for say buying from a company that already has a negative history.

2. Hire an experienced customs broker after you make the purchase

After you have found the car you want to import and have paid your seller for the cost of the vehicle plus freight shipping. It is important to hire a customs broker before the shipment departs overseas so you have adequate time to set up service with the customs broker. It is important to know all the fees upfront first to avoid any surprises of what you will be paying. Typical fees charged by a broker would be ISF Filing, ISF Bond, Customs Entry Filing, STB Bond, NHTSA, EPA Declaration. Please note each broker may have its own fee rate and description and will differ and vary from one to another.

3. Required filings to U.S. Customs: ISF Filing, Customs Entry, NHTSA & EPA...

For most new importers it is hard to understand what the customs broker will do exactly for your car shipment to the United States. To make it simple to understand, there are two filings which will be submitted to U.S. Customs. The first is called the ISF Filing or also known as the Importer Security Filing, this filing is to let U.S. Customs know what is being brought into the U.S. and who. It is for advanced screening for Homeland Security . The second filing due and also the final one is called the Customs Entry Declaration, this filing is done on the week of arrival. The entry declaration contains the financial information of your shipment such as the value of the car, the import duty and fees which will be paid in order to get the customs release at the port so you can pick up the vehicle when arrived.

4. Pick up your vehicle from the port

After you have obtain the customs release notice and documents from your customs broker. The port lets you pick up the car in person at the port terminal, or if you wish to designate an alternate pick up party such as trucking delivery company or tow truck, this is allowed as well by the port as long as their name is indicated on the pick up delivery order document.

5. Register your Kei / JDM with the DMV

After you have completed the import process and picked up the car from the port, the final step is to register your vehicle with the DMV. As each state varies in the requirements for 25 year vehicles and especially Kei's, check online with your local DMV website or to give them a call to confirm what they require from you before going in person.

How much does a Kei truck cost?

The cost of a Kei truck varies based on its make, model, age, and condition. On average, a used Kei truck in Japan can range from $1,000 to $15,000. For a more detailed look at available Kei trucks and their prices, you can visit a reputable online source like Car from Japan. It’s essential to research specific models and dealers to get an accurate price.
What are the factors that affect the import cost of a Kei truck or car from Japan?

– Several factors influence the import cost: – **Vehicle Value**: The cost of the vehicle itself plays a significant role as duties will be charged according to it. – **Shipping Fees**: Costs vary based on the shipping method (e.g., container or roll-on/roll-off) and distance. – **Import Duties**: Determined by the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) classification and are based on the value of the truck. – **Broker Fees**: Fees charged by the import broker for facilitating the process. see (link) While there are various brokers who specialize in Kei Truck import, make sure to shop around and compare the fees, as this type of import usually requires a Customs Bond and PGAs in addition to the standard broker fee. We at Kei Truck Customs Broker is happy to offer you our expertise with all types of cars from Japan for the best rates. – **Inspection and Modification Costs**: Some vehicles may need modifications to meet U.S. standards. – **Insurance**: Protects against damages during transit. – **Port and Storage Fees**: Costs incurred at the port of entry and any storage fees if the vehicle isn’t immediately cleared.
Are there any restrictions on importing Kei trucks or cars from Japan?

Yes, there are restrictions. Vehicles less than 25 years old must meet specific safety, emission, and technical standards set by the U.S. government. It’s essential to be aware of these regulations and ensure the vehicle complies before importing. For more detailed information and guidance on importing Kei trucks and cars from Japan, it’s recommended to consult with a trusted Japanese car import broker or expert.
How long does it take to get customs release from the port when arrived?

When the vessel arrives to port. Typically CBP will release the car within a week after they complete physical inspection of the vehicle. The time range for release can vary by port and some releases can come in within the same day or next day if CBP process early.
How many days does the port let me pick up the car when arrived?

Most port terminals for RORO vessel imports allows the importer 10 days when arrived to pick up the car.
How do I start service with Kei Truck Customs Broker?

Service with us can be started via the Online Form which is recommended, via the Online form you can upload your shipping documents and proof of ID easily and to make payment online as well. Service can also be started simply by contacting us via email, phone or Whatsapp.
What fees does Kei Truck Customs Broker charge?

We offer upfront pricing for our vehicle customs import services. Our current pricing is $125 to complete the ISF Filing, and $275 to compete the customs entry filing. Please note customs import duty is not included and will be billed according to U.S. Customs Tariff Schedule. ISF Pricing ISF Filing Fee: $35 ISF Bond: $90 (Service includes Free New Importer Registration with Customs) Upon completion of the ISF Filing, our customs broker work with you to prepare for the arrival of the vehicle and to prepare the customs entry filing to U.S. Customs in order to obtain the customs release and pay for the import duties. Customs Entry Clearance Pricing Customs Clearance: $150 Single Entry Bond: $75 NHTSA & EPA: $50 (Service includes 7501, 3461, NHTSA, EPA and Pick Up Delivery Order paperwork)