If you are looking for a reliable and affordable way to buy a used car from Japan, you might want to consider participating in one of the many Japanese car auction sites. These sites allow you to bid on thousands of vehicles from different brands, models, and conditions every day. You can find anything from vintage cars to sports cars, from family cars to commercial vehicles, and more.
Top 7 Japanese Car Auction Sites in 2023
But how do you choose the best Japanese car auction site for your needs? There are over 100 auction houses in Japan, each with its own rules, fees, and features. To help you narrow down your options, we have compiled a list of the top 10 Japanese car auction sites in 2023. These sites are based on their popularity, reputation, variety, and customer service.
1. TAU Corporation
TAU Corporation is one of the largest and most trusted Japanese car auction sites. It was established in 1996 in Saitama, Japan, and has over 20 branches across the country. TAU Corporation offers a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to heavy machinery, from motorcycles to boats. It also specializes in damaged cars, which can be a great option for buyers who want to repair or customize their own vehicles.
TAU Corporation has an easy-to-use online bidding system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and bidding history. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. TAU Corporation has a multilingual customer support team that can assist you with any inquiries or issues.
2. AUCNET
AUCNET is another leading Japanese car auction site that has been operating since 1985. It is based in Tokyo, Japan, and has over 10 branches nationwide. AUCNET is known for its innovative and convenient online auction system that connects buyers and sellers through satellite terminals. This means that you can bid on vehicles from different locations without having to physically attend the auction.
AUCNET offers a variety of vehicles, from new cars to used cars, from domestic brands to foreign brands. It also has a special section for luxury cars, such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and more. AUCNET provides detailed information on the vehicles, such as photos, videos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and market prices. You can also use their mobile app to bid anytime and anywhere.
3. USS
USS is the largest and most popular Japanese car auction site in terms of sales volume and membership. It was founded in 1980 in Nagoya, Japan, and has over 30 branches across the country. USS offers a huge selection of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, from trucks to buses, from motorcycles to bicycles. It also has a special section for rare and classic cars, such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, and more.
USS has a sophisticated online auction system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, bidding history, and market trends. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. USS has a professional customer service team that can help you with any questions or problems.
4. TAA
TAA is one of the oldest and most reputable Japanese car auction sites. It was established in 1967 in Osaka, Japan, and has over 10 branches nationwide. TAA offers a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, from domestic brands to foreign brands. It also has a special section for hybrid cars, such as Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Nissan Leaf, and more.
TAA has an advanced online auction system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and bidding history. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. TAA has a friendly customer support team that can assist you with any inquiries or issues.
5. ARAI
ARAI is one of the most respected and trusted Japanese car auction sites. It was founded in 1977 in Tokyo, Japan, and has over 10 branches nationwide. ARAI offers a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, from domestic brands to foreign brands. It also has a special section for sports cars, such as Subaru Impreza, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Nissan Skyline GT-R, and more.
ARAI has an efficient online auction system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and bidding history. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. ARAI has a reliable customer service team that can help you with any questions or problems.
6. Honda Auto Auction
Honda Auto Auction is one of the most exclusive and specialized Japanese car auction sites. It was launched in 1992 by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and has over 10 branches nationwide. Honda Auto Auction offers a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, from motorcycles to power products. It also has a special section for Honda cars, such as Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Honda CR-V, and more.
Honda Auto Auction has a user-friendly online auction system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and bidding history. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. Honda Auto Auction has a dedicated customer service team that can assist you with any inquiries or issues.
7. Kyushu Chuo Auto Auction
Kyushu Chuo Auto Auction is one of the most regional and local Japanese car auction sites. It was established in 1994 in Fukuoka, Japan, and has over 10 branches in Kyushu and Okinawa regions. Kyushu Chuo Auto Auction offers a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, from domestic brands to foreign brands. It also has a special section for Kyushu-made cars, such as Toyota Corolla, Nissan Serena, Mazda Demio, and more.
Kyushu Chuo Auto Auction has a simple and convenient online auction system that allows you to access real-time information on the vehicles, such as photos, inspection reports, auction sheets, and bidding history. You can also use their mobile app to bid on the go. Kyushu Chuo Auto Auction has a helpful customer support team that can help you with any questions or problems.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 Japanese car auction sites in 2023 that you should check out if you want to buy a used car from Japan. These sites offer a great opportunity to find your dream car at an affordable price. However, before you start bidding, make sure you do your research, compare the prices, inspect the vehicles, and read the terms and conditions. Also, it is advisable to work with a reputable and experienced exporter who can handle the shipping, customs, and paperwork for you.
FAQ
Q: How can I participate in a Japanese car auction site?
A: You need to register as a member of the site and pay a deposit or a membership fee. You also need to have a valid ID and a bank account. Some sites may require you to have an exporter or an agent who can bid on your behalf.
Q: How can I find the best deal on a Japanese car auction site?
A: You need to do your homework and research the market value, condition, and history of the vehicle you want to buy. You also need to set a budget and stick to it. You can use tools such as auction sheets, inspection reports, photos, videos, and bidding history to evaluate the vehicle.
Q: How can I pay for the vehicle I won on a Japanese car auction site?
A: You need to pay the full amount of the vehicle plus the fees and taxes within the specified time frame. You can pay by bank transfer, credit card, or PayPal. Some sites may accept other payment methods such as cryptocurrency or cash.
Q: How can I ship the vehicle I bought on a Japanese car auction site?
A: You need to arrange the shipping with an exporter or a shipping company who can handle the logistics, documentation, and customs clearance for you. You can choose between different shipping methods such as container, roll-on/roll-off, or air freight. The shipping cost and time depend on the destination, size, and weight of the vehicle.
Q: How can I import the vehicle I purchased on a Japanese car auction site?
A: You need to comply with the import regulations and requirements of your country. You may need to pay import duties, taxes, fees, and charges. You may also need to modify or inspect the vehicle to meet the safety and emission standards of your country.
Q: What are the advantages of buying a used car from Japan?
A: Buying a used car from Japan has many benefits, such as:
- You can find a wide variety of vehicles from different brands, models, and conditions.
- You can get high-quality vehicles that are well-maintained, reliable, and fuel-efficient.
- You can save money on the purchase price, maintenance cost, and insurance premium.
- You can enjoy driving a unique and rare vehicle that is not available in your country.
Q: What are the disadvantages of buying a used car from Japan?
A: Buying a used car from Japan also has some drawbacks, such as:
- You may face some challenges in finding spare parts, service centers, or mechanics who can repair your vehicle.
- You may encounter some difficulties in registering, insuring, or driving your vehicle due to