Frequently Asked Questions

  • A: Our company operates without holding inventory to keep costs low. As your dedicated automotive dealer, we start searching for your desired vehicle as soon as you place an order. From sourcing to export coordination, we offer a seamless, one-stop service tailored to your needs. If you're interested, please reach out to info@california-way.com or fill out our FORM.

  • A: Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

    1. Check the import regulations and gather any necessary documents for your country.

    2. Contract a certified Japanese vehicle export company.

    3. Purchase the vehicle and arrange transport to either the exporter’s location or directly to the port.

    4. The exporter will handle the export declaration paperwork.

    5. Determine if a pre-shipment inspection is needed, and arrange it if required.

    6. Choose a shipping method, and let your exporter handle the booking and paperwork.

    7. At the destination port, complete customs clearance by providing required documents and paying import duties and taxes.

    We handle every step above, making your Japanese vehicle export smooth and hassle-free.

  • A: Typically, you’ll need the following:

    1. Vehicle Registration Documents (Shakensho and Deregistration Shomeisho)

    2. Purchase Invoice

    3. Export Declaration Form

    4. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

    5. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (if required)

    6. Insurance Certificate

    We handle all of these documents for you in one package, making it easy for you to enjoy a smooth export process for your Japanese vehicle.

  • A: Vehicles that are over 25 years old by month/year.
    So if a car was manufactured this month in 1999, it would now be over 25 years old and legal.

  • A: California has some specific requirements in order to be able to register an imported vehicle that was never EPA certified. California requires the vehicle meet EPA requirements for the year of the vehicle, and a smog test prior to registration. This cost can be anywhere from $4000, to $10000 for most JDM market vehicles. 
    https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr09a