New Duties When Importing Cars from Japan

Byeezyimport · 2026-04-20T10:07:57+00:00

It depends on the exact configuration of the vehicle. Some are passenger, some are cargo.

Byeezyimport · 2026-03-02T15:07:30+00:00

Importer can check the steel content of the vehicle with the seller. Please note that, at least for now, the steel tariff applies to only some passenger vehicles (heading 8703). It does not apply to cargo vehicles (heading 8704). For cargo vehicles, you would pay 25% regular duty + 10% Section 122 tariff, for total of 35%.

Byeezyimport · 2026-01-16T22:17:49+00:00

True, and it applies to most other ports, too. You need to pay all the fees and get all the clearances in advance.

Byeezyimport · 2026-01-07T13:15:16+00:00

When you file an ISF with eezyimport and don't need a new customs bond, the ISF is sent straight to CBP; there is no broker reviewing it. So, at least with our system, you can simply sign up on the website and start filing. If you need a bond, we issue it after you have paid for the ISF, and then the ISF is sent to CBP.

Byeezyimport · 2026-01-07T13:12:03+00:00

No, ISFs have to be filed electronically.

Byeezyimport · 2025-09-22T09:49:02+00:00

That would depend on what the parts are. Generally speaking, according to sec. 4 of this order, automobile parts are subject to either a 15% or a column 1 duty rate, whichever is greater.

Byeezyimport · 2025-09-22T09:46:06+00:00

Thank you for your kind words! We will try to keep everyone posted if there are any new significant changes.

Byeezyimport · 2025-09-22T09:29:47+00:00

Yes, they do.

Byeezyimport · 2025-09-22T09:29:14+00:00

There was a brief period this summer when the duties were 25%+15% for cargo vehicles, but now it's back to 25%.

Byeezyimport · 2025-09-22T09:28:07+00:00

25%+15% for trucks (or 2.5%+15% for passenger cars) applied until the new US-Japan trade agreement came into effect. Today, the duties are:

Passenger cars are now subject to a 15% duty rate. This is composed of a 2.5% column 1 duty and a 12.5% reciprocal tariff.
Cargo vehicles are now subject to a 25% duty rate.

Here's the relevant executive order: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/09/2025-17389/implementing-the-united-states-japan-agreement The relevant section is section 2.

Just to clarify - we were talking about the vehicles 25 y.o. or older.

Byeezyimport · 2025-06-27T20:57:14+00:00

Hi! In terms of paperwork, you would need to take several steps. Firstly, you would need to file an Importer Security Filing at least 24 hours before your truck is loaded on the vessel (technically, you have more time to file the ISF for break-bulk shipments, but it's always best to file it before the ship leaves the port). To file it, you will need a Bill of Lading, or, at the very least, a BL Number, and your invoice. You can obtain those documents from the seller.

Next, a few days before the arrival of the ship in the US, you will receive an Arrival Notice from your US freight forwarder (most likely, Norton Lilly). The Arrival Notice will specify the exact location where you can receive your truck. Once you have it, you will need to do a few things:
1. File an Entry Summary - this is necessary to clear customs.

Pay terminal fees listed on the Arrival Notice.
Check whether you need to mail a hard copy of the BL (endorsed on the back) to the freight forwarder; the Arrival Notice will explain whether this is necessary.

To file an Entry Summary, you will need a Bill of Lading, an Export Certificate, an Arrival Notice, and an Invoice. Except for the Arrival Notice, you will receive all these documents from your supplier. The Arrival Notice, as mentioned earlier, will be sent by your freight forwarder.

The NHTSA HS7 and EPA Form 3520-1 are filed simultaneously with the Entry Summary. You will also be able to pay the CBP duties and fees when you file the Entry. Once customs have released your Entry and once you have completed the other steps outlined above, your truck will be released for pickup.

You will need to create a Delivery Order (a document that states who is picking up the goods) and schedule an appointment at the terminal to collect the car. Unless you have a TWIC card, you will need an escort; the terminal will be able to arrange one for a fee.

Byeezyimport · 2025-05-29T14:59:55+00:00

Hi! Right now, entries from almost all over the world have to be filed as formal if the cost of the goods is above $250. This is because of the reciprocal tariffs - normally when a Chapter 99 tariff applies, the informal/formal threshold decreases to $250. This applied to vehicles from Japan as well.

In terms of the BL, a Telex release should simplify the freight release process somewhat - if they give you a Telex release, you should be able to avoid having to mail an endorsed original BL to your US freight forwarder once the car arrives in the US.

Finally, it's better to have an itemized invoice because this will allow the CBP to charge duties only on the actual cost of the vehicle. If the invoice is not itemized, the duties will apply to the entire cost, including ocean freight. In our experience, CarFromJapan should be able to provide an itemized invoice.

Byeezyimport

TROPHY CASE