Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about importing a vehicle through Japanese Cars Durban.
We source vehicles directly from Japan and Singapore auctions and ship them to the Durban Port ourselves. This means by the time you enquire, the vehicle is already in South Africa — eliminating the typical 24–34 day wait for ocean freight from Japan. We then arrange overland car carrier transport to your destination country.
No. This is illegal. Unregistered imported vehicles cannot be driven on South African roads under any legal framework. Attempting this risks vehicle impoundment, fines of R3,000–R6,000+, and criminal charges. We always use licensed car carrier trucks for overland transport — it is the only legal and insured method.
Yes — significantly. In Zimbabwe, a full BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) attracts only 25% customs duty versus 80–120% for ICE vehicles. On a R150,000 CIF vehicle, this difference translates to approximately R130,000 in savings on the total landed cost. Use our Import Calculator to see the exact breakdown for your destination country.
No. This is a critical distinction. The 2025 Zimbabwe EV incentive applies exclusively to full Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) with no combustion engine. Hybrids — including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) — are classified with ICE vehicles for duty purposes in Zimbabwe and attract 40% customs duty plus 10% excise duty.
For Botswana you will need: the original Bill of Lading, Certificate of Title & Registration, Purchase Invoice, Police Clearance Certificate, Vehicle Evaluation Report, IC2 Application Form, Form CE 101, and an Import Permit from the Ministry of Commerce. Customs clearance must be completed within 14 days of the vehicle entering Botswana.
Yes. Mozambique mandates a pre-shipment inspection by Intertek before the vehicle is exported. You must obtain a MOZ number from Intertek prior to shipment — vehicles arriving without this cannot be cleared. Additionally, all importers need a NUIT (Mozambican Tax Number). We guide you through this process.
Since your vehicle is already in Durban, the timeline is much shorter than sourcing from Japan. Typically: 2–5 days for documentation prep, 2–6 days for overland transport (depending on destination), and 3–14 days for customs clearance at the destination border. Total: approximately 1–3 weeks from payment to delivery.
We accept bank transfers and SWIFT/telegraphic transfers. Full payment is required before dispatch. We do not offer financing or payment plans at this time.
Yes. All vehicles are physically located in Durban and can be inspected on-site by appointment. We also provide detailed photo sets and video walkarounds for remote buyers.
All overland transport is fully insured. In the unlikely event of damage during transit, we handle the insurance claim on your behalf and ensure you are fully compensated.