Asia PacificShipping Heavy Equipment to Japan
Japan is a major industrial economy with significant demand for specialized heavy equipment. World-class port infrastructure and efficient customs procedures facilitate smooth imports.
Main Ports
- Port of Tokyo
- Port of Yokohama
- Port of Osaka
Shipping Methods
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
- Flat Rack Container
- Breakbulk
Key Regulations
- Japan Customs
- JIS Standards
- Plant Quarantine
Common Cargo
- Industrial Machinery
- Construction Equipment
- Manufacturing Equipment
Main Ports in Japan
Port of Tokyo
Major Seaport
Port of Yokohama
Major Seaport
Port of Osaka
Major Seaport
Port of Nagoya
Major Seaport
Shipping Routes & Transit Times to Japan
| From (US Port) | To | Service | Est. Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles / Long Beach | Port of Tokyo / Yokohama | Container / RoRo | 14–22 days |
| Houston, TX | Yokohama / Nagoya | Breakbulk / Container | 25–35 days |
Transit times are indicative port-to-port estimates and vary by carrier, season, and sailing schedule.
U.S. Departure Ports for Shipping to Japan
We ship to Japan (Port of Tokyo) from every major U.S. port. Typical ocean transit is 14-22 days.
Gulf Coast
East Coast
Import Duty, VAT & Taxes for Japan
Japan levies no customs duty on imported passenger cars, but a 10% consumption tax applies and vehicles must meet strict Japanese type-approval/standards to register. Most US-origin volume is project cargo, machinery, and specialty vehicles.
- Import Duty
- 0% on passenger cars
- VAT / Sales Tax
- Consumption tax 10%
- Other Taxes & Fees
- Shaken inspection, weight tax, and registration on road use
Source: Japan Customs · Last verified: June 2026
Import Regulations & Requirements
Japan Customs
Efficient customs procedures with electronic processing. Proper classification is essential.
JIS Standards
Japanese Industrial Standards may apply to certain equipment categories.
Plant Quarantine
Used equipment must be clean and may require phytosanitary inspection.
Required Documentation
Customs & Clearance Notes for Japan
- Tokyo, Yokohama, and Nagoya are the main gateways; US left-hand-drive cars are allowed but suit specialty use.
- Vehicles need Japanese type-approval / inspection (shaken) to register.
Frequently Asked Questions
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