Process, Legality, and Best Choices
Importing a car to Australia can be an exciting venture, whether you’re seeking a unique vehicle or a high-specification model unavailable locally. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the import process, legal requirements, and making smart choices and how we handle importing cars at Garage Full Throttle.
Why Import a Car?
Japanese imports often offer superior specifications compared to their Australian-delivered counterparts. For example, a JDM (Japanese domestic market) Toyota Estima typically comes with higher specifications than the Australian-delivered Toyota Tarago while maintaining similar serviceability since they share many components.
Why Import a car from Japan?
Japanese vehicles are particularly popular for importation due to:
- Generally lower mileage
- Higher specifications
- Superior build quality
- Excellent condition maintenance
- Shared parts with Australian models
- Established import specialist network
Understanding the Japanese Grading System
When importing from Japan, vehicles are graded according to their condition:
- 8.0: New car
- 7.0: New car registered
- 5.0: As new condition
- 4.5: Excellent condition
- 4.0: Excellent condition, needs minor attention
- 3.5: Good condition requires some repairs
- 3.0: and below: Average to below average condition
Legal Requirements and Import Options
Two primary schemes facilitate vehicle importation:
- Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme (RAWS)
- Allows importation of used vehicles
- Requires modifications to meet Australian standards
- Must be processed through approved workshops
- Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Register (SEVS)
- Enables import under the Low Volume Vehicles Scheme
- Specifically for unique or specialty vehicles
- Must meet specific eligibility criteria
The Import Process Step-by-Step in Importing Cars
- Pre-Import Considerations
- Verify vehicle eligibility
- Calculate all associated costs
- Research import options
- Gather required documentation
- Consider using a broker
- Vehicle Import Approval
- Apply to the Department of Infrastructure
- Wait for approval before shipping
- Note any specific conditions attached to the approval
- Vehicle Preparation and Shipping
- Complete thorough cleaning
- Arrange shipping through freight forwarder
- Ensure compliance with gas and asbestos regulations
- Organize marine insurance
- Customs and Quarantine
- Clear customs
- Pay applicable duties and taxes
- Complete quarantine inspection
- Arrange transportation to a compliant workshop
- Compliance and Registration
- Complete necessary modifications
- Obtain identification plate
- Register with state authority
- Arrange insurance
Maintenance and Parts Availability
Many imported vehicles share components with their Australian-delivered counterparts, making maintenance manageable. For example:
- Engine parts
- Transmission components
- Service items
- Major mechanical components
Cost Considerations in Importing Cars
Understanding the complete financial commitment is crucial for success when planning to import a vehicle. The total cost extends beyond the initial purchase price and includes several critical components that need careful consideration.
Key expenses to factor in:
- International shipping costs (varies by vehicle size and method)
- Import duties and GST
- Luxury Car Tax (for eligible vehicles)
- Compliance modification costs
- Registration fees (state-dependent)
- Insurance premiums (often higher for imports)
Tips for Success
Research Thoroughly Comprehensive research is the foundation of a successful import. Take time to thoroughly investigate every aspect of your potential purchase and the import process or you can let our team at Garage Full Throttle deal with the stress and paperwork of importing your dream car.
Essential research points:
- Vehicle history documentation
- Auction reports and grading
- Model-specific compliance requirements
- Detailed cost breakdowns
- Import regulations and restrictions
Choose Reputable Partners The success of your import largely depends on working with trustworthy professionals who understand the complex process. Your choice of partners can significantly impact both the smooth running of importing cars and your final costs. Choose Garage full Throttle in Craigieburn to be your partner in getting your desired vehicle imported into Australia without any hassle.
Key partnerships to establish:
- Licensed importers with proven track records
- Experienced compliance workshops
- Professional brokers (if needed)
- Shipping companies with importing cars expertise
Plan for Maintenance Long-term ownership satisfaction requires careful maintenance planning. Establish a comprehensive maintenance strategy before completing your import to ensure sustainable ownership.
Critical maintenance considerations:
- Local specialist mechanics familiar with your vehicle
- Parts supply chains and availability
- Regular maintenance schedules
- Emergency repair options
- Budget for ongoing maintenance costs
Conclusion
Importing a car to Australia requires careful planning and attention to detail but can be rewarding. Focus on high-quality Japanese imports, understand the legal requirements, and work with reputable partners to ensure a smooth process. Contact us to book with us at Garage Full Throttle to import the car you want hassle free.
Remember to verify current import regulations, as they may change over time.