Many used cars in Japan are sold at car auctions. These auctions are not like public ones in other countries. They are well-organized and mostly for dealers. If you want to buy a car from Japan, you should understand how these auctions work. In this guide, we explain the steps in simple words.
1. What Is a Japanese Car Auction?
Car auctions in Japan are big marketplaces. Dealers across the country bring their cars to sell. Buyers place bids online or in person. Each week, over 100,000 cars go through auction houses like USS, TAA, and JU.
2. Who Can Join the Auction?
Only registered dealers can join. But don’t worry—exporters can help you. When you work with an exporter, they place the bid for you. That’s why it’s important to choose someone you can trust.
3. How to Choose a Car
Exporters give you access to auction lists. These lists show:
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Car model and year
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Mileage and condition
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Auction grade (0–5 or R, depending on damage)
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Photos and auction sheet
You can compare many cars and ask questions. Exporters also give advice if you don’t know what to pick.
4. Understanding the Auction Sheet
Each car has an auction sheet. This paper shows:
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Mileage
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Interior and exterior condition
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Past repairs
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Engine performance
The auction house inspects the car before the sale. So, you get clear information before you bid.
5. How Bidding Works
When you find the right car, tell your exporter your budget. They will join the auction and place a bid for you.
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If your bid is the highest, you win
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If someone bids more, you lose and try again
There’s no refund if you change your mind after the bid, so be sure.
6. After You Win the Car
After winning, the exporter pays for the car and gets it ready to ship. They prepare all papers and book the shipping. You receive:
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Invoice
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Export certificate
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Bill of lading
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Photos before shipping
You pay for the car and shipping based on the invoice. Then you wait for the car to arrive in your country.
7. How Much Does It Cost?
Here is what you usually pay:
| Item | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Car Price (Auction) | Winning bid |
| Auction Fee | Service fee for the auction |
| Exporter Fee | Exporter’s work and support |
| Shipping Cost | From Japan to your port |
| Import Tax & Duty | Your country’s customs cost |
Ask the exporter to give you a total price estimate before you bid.
Trusted Exporters Who Handle Car Auctions
To join Japanese car auctions, work with experienced exporters:
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EVERY Co., Ltd.
Located in Niigata, Japan. Since 2006, EVERY has helped people in over 100 countries buy cars from auctions. They share auction sheets, give fast support, and handle all export steps.
➤ https://www.everycar.jp/ -
SBT Co. Ltd.
Offers auction access and helps with bidding and shipping worldwide. -
Be Forward
Has a wide stock and offers some cars directly from auctions. -
Qualitex Trading
Supports custom orders and budget auction purchases. -
Autorec Enterprise Ltd.
Known for high inspection standards and clear communication.
➤ See also:
Top Recommended Japanese Used Car Export Companies for International Customers
Final Words
Japanese car auctions offer many clean, low-cost cars. When you work with the right exporter, you can find great cars at better prices than local dealers. And because you see the auction sheet before you buy, you know exactly what you’re getting.
Next up, we’ll show you:
“How to Read a Japanese Auction Sheet – Easy Guide for Beginners.”