Japanese imports come with paperwork that most UK buyers have never seen. Here's what each document is for, how an import gets on UK plates, and exactly what we need from you to buy it.
Export cert
When a car leaves Japan, it is taken off the Japanese register for export and an export certificate (often called the de-registration certificate for export) is issued. It shows the chassis number, the date of first registration in Japan and the car's specification. With an English translation, it is the key document the DVLA uses to work out the car's age, so if your import is not yet on UK plates, keep the original safe.
De-reg cert
Some cars are permanently de-registered in Japan rather than through the export process, and come with a de-registration certificate instead. Kei cars and kei trucks are handled by a different Japanese body, so their paperwork looks different again. Whichever you have, send us a photo and we'll tell you what it means for your car.
Auction sheet
Most imports are bought at auction in Japan, and the auction sheet records the inspector's grade, the interior grade, the mileage and a diagram of marks and repairs. A translated auction sheet is one of the most useful documents an import can have. It is not essential, but if you have it, please send it.
Shaken
The shaken is Japan's vehicle inspection, strict and costly as cars get older, which is one reason so many good cars are exported. Old shaken certificates and Japanese service records are a useful part of the history, but you don't need them to sell to us.
NOVA & IVA
When an import arrives, HMRC must be told through the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) system and any duty and VAT paid. Cars under 10 years old usually need an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test; older cars need an MOT. The DVLA then registers the car, usually with an age-related plate, or a Q plate if its age can't be proved. If you're part-way through, tell us how far you've got.
V5C
If your Japanese import is already on UK plates, the V5C is the main document we need, along with photo ID and the keys. Any Japanese paperwork you still have, such as the export certificate and auction sheet, is a valuable part of the history.
This page is a plain-English guide, not legal or tax advice. Import rules change from time to time: we'll always tell you exactly what applies to your car.
If the car is already UK-registered, the V5C is what matters. If it is not registered yet, tell us before anything else, as the export certificate is important for registration.
Yes. Send a clear photo. A translation helps, but it is not essential.
Yes. Q-plated imports are welcome. The V5C is what we need.
Unregistered imports are considered. Tell us whether NOVA and the duty have been done and what paperwork you have.
No. They're a nice part of the history if you have them, but you don't need them to sell to us.