Shipping Lines: COSCO Shipping Lines Ltd, Armacup Maritime Service
Inspection Required: JEVIC and MAF (Biosecurity)
Vehicle Rules & Regulations
1. Age and Type Restriction
Age Restriction: There is no specific age restriction for importing used
vehicles from Japan to New Zealand.
Vehicle Type: Both right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles
are allowed, though RHD is standard.
2. Standards & Compliance
Emission Standards: Vehicles must comply with New Zealand emission standards
for their specific class. Proof via approved certificates or Japanese emission code
documentation is mandatory.
Safety & Frontal Impact: Passenger vehicles (MA, MB, MC classes) must meet
approved frontal impact standards. Exemptions apply for vehicles over 20 years old or special
interest vehicles.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Class MC vehicles (4x4, SUVs, vans)
imported on or after 1 March 2016 require ESC.
Fuel Consumption: Proof of compliance is required for vehicles manufactured
from 2018 onwards.
3. Biosecurity & Inspection
A mandatory JEVIC inspection in Japan is required to verify vehicle condition
before shipping.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MAF) inspects all vehicles for biosecurity
risks (pests/contaminants). Fumigation or treatment may be required if risks are identified.
Tariff Duty: Generally 0% for standard passenger vehicles and motorcycles.
GST: 15% calculated on the total CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.
Special Vehicles: Vehicles with habitation facilities (e.g., motorhomes) or
ambulances may incur a 10% duty plus GST.
Registration & Certification
All vehicles must pass Entry Certification before registration to verify
safety, emissions, and legal ownership.
NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) handles the final entry certification process.
Required Documentation
Original Registration/Ownership certificate (Japan) with English translation.
Original Bill of Lading (BOL) including odometer readings.
Original Invoice showing FOB, freight, and insurance costs.
Export Certificate or Completion Inspection Certificate with Type Designation Number (TDN).
Passport copy and relevant visa/work permits.
NZ Customs Client Code and proof of safety/emission compliance.
Note: Pre-shipment JEVIC inspections and MAF biosecurity
checks are mandatory. Ensure all documentation for ESC and frontal impact standards is
verified before shipping.