Have you ordered a Japan used car? If it is coming from Japan, there is protocol to follow and a lot of documents to process but the Japan used car importation should not take more than a few weeks to 2 months. It would really depend though on your location and proximity to the entry ports in your country. Other factors that could delay the arrival would be weather, holidays, incomplete documentation, and failure to pay the proper taxes, among others.
Usually the process starts with the canvassing and window shopping. This is done online and there are many websites that are set up primarily for import and export of cars from Japan. At this point, you don’t get charge for the quotation.
Depending on your mode of payment, there is a minimum waiting time from minutes for instant credit to the usual 7 days processing time for online credit card payments. Before paying, you should inquire about possible rebates and discounts. Don’t be ashamed to ask. Its part of the negotiating process, and it could save you a considerable amount. The general rule in Japan for sale of used cars is that the demand dictates the price. If the demand is low, you could get a better price since the seller would like to unload a non-moving or slow-moving inventory.
Once the deal has been signed and the car is set for shipping and delivery, the transit time should take less than 35 days assuming there are no circumstances that would cause a delay with the ship. When the car arrives at the port of entry, it usually goes through extensive inspection. This year, the US customs have been extremely particular about any item coming from Japan. It is checked for irradiation and sent back if tainted. The line for this process will depend on what’s on the dock. For instance, towards the end of the year, it’s a very busy time with orders coming in all at the same time. This will cause delays.
In summary, while the usual average time is a month for your Japan used car to reach you from Japan, it isn’t unusual for some delay to happen. To protect your interests, make sure the contract agreement is airtight and you can contact someone about your shipment.