Originally Posted by
ian dc5
I only joined today, but i have been thinking about the NSX for some time. I'm also considering importing from Japan, timing of teh Yen rate is really important. The rate is really poor at the moment, 169 yen = 1 GBP, it was 230 when i bought my Integra, pretty cool as one imported now will cost you £2k more!
I imported my Honda DC5 integra direct from Japan. Pretty simply process really. Get yourself a japanese action account, log on every mornign at 5am for the next days auctions, request the auction sheets for any car your interested in (get it translated). Know the market before you bid and bid the maximum price you are willign to pay.
Easiest way is to get an agent that won't rip you off, otherwise you will fighting the japanese system, deregistration, shipping export etc.
You have to pay the full auction cost when you have won, i think you have 5 days to do this. plus agents fee usually around £500.
When you get to the UK you will need to pay for 1) Customs fees (10%) 2) VAT@17.5%, and 3) then an SVA test if the car is under 10 years old plus you need a CAT 1 system as Japanese ones aren't recognise by UK insurers - expect around £1500 for the SVA.
Oh and you need to wait 4 weeks for shipping from Japan to UK once you get on the boat, which can take 2 to 3 weeks depneding on exports etc. And 3 weeks for SVA and DVLA registration.
last and not least keep you fingers crossed that all gioes well and don't fortget to pay £150 marine insurance incase the boat sinks!
Oh the Company i used was called Autoadvan. The have a team out in Japan and turn queries etc round in 2 hours max. They dont seem to sleep.
Just notice teh prices you have been offered are more than the UK price. Some of the Japanese exports are a rip off, becareful. Do you investigation check all the forums.