How does this process work?
As our client, the importing process will be simple and easy. We focus on the details, logistics, and groundwork, and you can focus on finding the car you've always wanted.
We find it best to explain the importing process in the form of a step-by-step process.
We love what we do, so we would love to discuss the benefits of using our service versus buying through one of the many JDM dealerships on the East Coast. While we do not provide in-house financing, we are able to offer thousands in savings through our streamlined processes, and we do not possess the overhead costs of a large dealership operation.
We look forward to earning your business!
*A deposit of $1000 USD is required to enlist our services. Deposits are refundable up to 14 calendar days minus any applicable merchant fees. Beyond the calendar 14 day period, a 25% fee applies. Vehicles exceeding $10,000 USD in value will require a larger deposit depending on the value of the vehicle. Please contact us for vehicles over $10,000.
We find it best to explain the importing process in the form of a step-by-step process.
- You approach us with your desired vehicle(s). We will discuss up to date market pricing with you, and determine the appropriate course of action. Due to the cost of exporting and importing vehicles into the United States, we are only able to work with clients with a budget minimum of $5,500.
- We will collect a deposit to begin the search for your dream JDM vehicle*. If we find a suitable candidate, we will notify you and provide all photos and information available on the vehicle, and the estimated cost to acquire that vehicle from the auction and import it to the United States. If the auction where the vehicle is listed is local to our Osaka based office, our Japan Team will travel to the auction and inspect the vehicle in person. If this is not possible, we will notify you and you can choose whether to accept purchasing the vehicle without an in-person inspection.
- If you approve of the candidate vehicle, we will retain your deposit and place a maximum bid on the vehicle in accordance with your desired budget. If the auction bid wins, we will notify you, and the deposit will be retained and applied to the total invoiced cost of the vehicle. If the auction bid is not successful, we will continue to look for suitable vehicles. No fees apply for lost auction bids.
- Vehicles typically arrive from the auction within 5 business days or less, but some vehicles at remote auctions across Japan may take up to two weeks for delivery. Your vehicle will be cleaned, and an oil change performed. Our Japan Team may also perform additional maintenance tasks such as power steering fluid or fuel filter replacements if deemed appropriate by our lead mechanic.
- Your vehicle will undergo thorough test driving, and you will receive high resolution photos and a video "walk around" tour.
- The full invoiced balance is due. Once payment is cleared, your vehicle will be scheduled for the soonest possible export shipment from Japan.
- We will provide you with the name of the ship that your vehicle is on so you can use Marine Traffic to see where your car is, and the estimated arrival date (subject to delays by the shipping line).
- Your vehicle will arrive at the Port of Baltimore, or the port of your choice if we are not handling importation for you. We do not recommend self-importing for first-time buyers, as even simple paperwork errors can result in thousands of dollars in expenses. We will arrange to pick up the vehicle, and will then contact you to arrange pickup.
- We offer free airport pickup at Dulles (IAD), Reagan International (DCA), and Baltimore (BWI) Airports if you wish to fly in and drive your vehicle home. Please be aware that Midnight Motors is not a dealership and cannot provide you with a temporary license plate, so we strongly recommend buyers to arrange vehicle transportation by trailer or shipping company. We can connect you with a recommended shipping broker if requested, and will make all efforts to assist in the vehicle transportation process.
- Titling and registration is available for an additional fee, however we recommend our clients perform this process themselves. You will receive all paperwork necessary to register the vehicle in most states, but it is ultimately the buyer's responsibility to research any additional requirements. We will provide as much guidance as possible to assist with this process.
- Enjoy your new vehicle!
We love what we do, so we would love to discuss the benefits of using our service versus buying through one of the many JDM dealerships on the East Coast. While we do not provide in-house financing, we are able to offer thousands in savings through our streamlined processes, and we do not possess the overhead costs of a large dealership operation.
We look forward to earning your business!
*A deposit of $1000 USD is required to enlist our services. Deposits are refundable up to 14 calendar days minus any applicable merchant fees. Beyond the calendar 14 day period, a 25% fee applies. Vehicles exceeding $10,000 USD in value will require a larger deposit depending on the value of the vehicle. Please contact us for vehicles over $10,000.