How the Import Process Works

Importing a car from Japan should feel clear, controlled, and stress-free. At Arden Motors, we manage the entire process on your behalf, from sourcing and securing the right vehicle in Japan to UK compliance, registration, and final delivery. Every step is handled transparently, with clear communication and no unnecessary complexity. Below is a simple overview of how we bring high-quality Japanese auction vehicles to the UK as fully road-legal, ready-to-drive cars.
Step 01:

Vehicle Sourcing

We begin by understanding exactly what you are looking for, including your budget, preferred models, specifications, and timeline. Based on this, we search Japanese vehicle auctions and shortlist suitable options for you to review. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can also log in to our auction portal, browse available vehicles yourself, and tell us the exact vehicle you would like us to bid on and secure on your behalf. This gives you the flexibility to either be fully guided or actively involved.
Step 02:

Auction Checks and Purchase

Each shortlisted vehicle is reviewed using official Japanese auction inspection reports, which provide detailed information on condition, mileage, and grading. Once you approve a vehicle, we handle the bidding process and secure the purchase on your behalf. All key details are confirmed before proceeding, ensuring full transparency and no surprises.
Step 03:

Shipping, Customs, and NOVA

After purchase, we manage all export documentation and arrange secure shipping from Japan to the UK. Once the vehicle arrives, we take care of: UK customs clearance, Import duty and VAT, NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) submission. This ensures the vehicle is correctly declared and ready to move to the next stage of the process.
Step 04:

IVA, Compliance, and UK Preparation

If the vehicle was manufactured within the last 10 years, UK regulations require it to pass an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test before it can be registered. We handle the entire IVA process, including preparation, booking, and approval. As part of UK road preparation, we also arrange all required modifications and checks, including: Speedometer conversion from kilometres to miles (MPH), Rear fog light installation where required, UK lighting and compliance checks. Vehicles over 10 years old do not require IVA but are still prepared to meet UK road standards.
Step 05:

Registration and Delivery

Once compliance is complete, we manage DVLA registration and final preparation. Your vehicle is then delivered or made available for collection fully UK-registered, IVA-approved where required, and road legal, ready to drive with confidence.

Cost-Saving Option: Importing Directly

Customers who are happy to secure a vehicle earlier in the import process can benefit from lower overall costs compared to typical UK market pricing. By importing a vehicle directly and investing earlier, we are able to pass savings straight to you. In these cases, Arden Motors manages the full end-to-end process and charges a transparent handling fee for sourcing, importing, compliance, and delivery.

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