Importing a classic NA Miata from Japan to the USA is a very extensive process but it can be incredibly rewarding if done correctly. The process involves many steps and can be quite challenging if you’re not well-prepared, this guide will walk you through each step, from finding the perfect car in Japan to ensuring it meets all U.S. regulations and finally getting it on the road with any hiccups whatsoever!!
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The NA Miata, known as the Eunos Roadster in Japan, has been a beloved icon for car enthusiasts since its debut. While you might wonder why anyone would go through the trouble of importing one when they’re so readily available in the States, there are several compelling reasons to consider this route.
Japan’s domestic market offered a variety of limited-edition NA Miatas that were never available in the U.S. For instance, models like the “M2 1001” and “M2 1028” were special variants that Mazda produced in very limited numbers. These versions come with unique features, like factory-installed sports upgrades and exclusive color schemes, and interior trims, making them highly desirable for collectors and enthusiasts. Another reason to import is the overall condition of Japanese cars. Japan has stricter inspection system in place that forces owners to maintain their vehicles in top condition, or else face hefty penalties. Many Japanese models had half the mileage of similar U.S. cars and were often in much better condition. But most importantly, most are free from that dreaded rust problem because Japan doesn’t salt their roads during winter months, and wacky mods from previous owners, the typical age-related issues here in the U.S. Also, don’t forget how cool you will look riding on a right-hand drive Miata!
The first step in the import process is finding the right car.
If you’re comfortable with navigating Japanese auction sites and can manage the language barrier, searching for the car yourself can be an option. Websites like JapaneseCarTrade.com and Goo-net Exchange list a wide range of vehicles, including NA Miatas. However, this approach has its challenges. Without being in Japan, it’s hard to verify the car’s actual condition. Descriptions and photos can be misleading, and there’s always a risk of overlooking possible issues.
On the other hand, there are professional importers that specializes in importing JDM cars to the US, like RNation.jp that can simplify the process. These services offer a more tailored approach, handling everything from searching for the car based on your criteria to performing a physical inspection. If you are willing to pay a premium, this can give you the peace of mind, knowing that an expert was verifying the car’s condition before committing to the purchase.
If you decide to search for the car yourself, understanding how Japanese auctions work is crucial. Auctions in Japan are highly competitive, and cars are often sold quickly. Each car is graded based on its condition, with detailed auction sheets providing information on mileage, accident history, and any defects. However, these sheets are usually in Japanese, so you may need to rely on translation services or seek help from someone fluent in the language.
Once you’ve found a potential car, evaluating its condition is the next critical step. This is where having a professional on the ground in Japan can be invaluable.
Auction grades range from 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest and typically reserved for brand-new or nearly-new cars. For older imports like the NA Miata, grades 4 and 5 are usually ideal, indicating a car in excellent condition. But don’t worry, cars graded 3 can still be good as grade 3 cars are usually in a condition that is equivalent to the average American car.
Remember, pre-purchase inspection is crucial to avoid any surprises. The inspection should cover the car’s mechanical condition, bodywork, and interior, as well as verify the mileage and check for any signs of previous accidents.
Don’t forget to verify the vehicle’s history to ensure it hasn’t been involved in any major accidents or suffered significant damage. In Japan, cars that have been in accidents are often repaired to a high standard, but it’s still essential to know what you’re getting into.
Buying your Miata will involve several key documents, including the bill of sale and the export certificate. Make sure that the documents you are filling out are authenticated. Also, use a secure platform when making your payment. You wouldn’t want to experience the infamous JDM car import scam.
Moving on with the purchase complete, the next phase is preparing the car for its journey across the Pacific.
Before the car is shipped, it needs to be properly prepared. This includes removing any personal items from the vehicle, as these can cause issues with U.S. customs. The car may also need to be cleaned to prevent the importation of foreign soil or pests. Dirty Imported cars are often detained at customs or exported back.
You have two main options for shipping: container shipping and RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off). Container shipping offers more protection as the car is enclosed in a container, reducing the risk of damage. RoRo is cheaper but involves driving the car onto the ship, where it’s exposed to the elements. Is best opting for container shipping to ensure the Miata arriving in the best possible condition.
Once the car is prepared and the shipping company is selected, the vehicle is ready to be shipped.
When arranging shipping, it’s important to understand the various shipping terms. FOB (Free on Board) means the seller is responsible for getting the car onto the ship, after which the buyer takes over. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) includes the cost of the car, insurance, and freight to the destination port. Knowing these terms can help you better understand the costs involved and what to expect.
During transit, the car is at the mercy of the shipping company. That is why it is essential to choose a company with a good track record to ensure your vehicle arrives safely. Our top pick is Rinkens International, a well reputed and a trusted car importing company.
Once the car arrives at the port in the U.S., it must clear customs before it can be released.
To clear customs, you’ll need several documents, including the bill of lading, export certificate, VIN details, and specifications of the car. If you’re following this guide right, you should have these documents prepared by now.
You’ll need to pay import taxes and duties based on the car’s value. For most cars, the duty is around 2.5%.
Before you can legally drive your imported NA Miata in the U.S., it must comply with both EPA and DOT regulations.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) have specific requirements for imported vehicles. Since the NA Miata is over 25 years old, it’s exempt from some of the stricter regulations, but it’s still important to ensure compliance. NA Miata, being the latest version released in 1997, should qualify for the 25-year exemption, making the process easier. However, you still need to ensure that the car meets basic safety and emissions standards. With customs clearance complete, the next step is registering the car in your state.
Registering an imported car can vary significantly depending on the state. Some states, like California, have stricter emissions and registration laws, which can make the process more challenging.
Your car may need to pass a state inspection before it can be registered. This inspection typically checks for compliance with safety and emissions standards.
Depending on the state you live in, your car may need some modifications to meet local regulations. For example, some states require the installation of a catalytic converter or adjustments to the lighting. The NA Miata being a car of an older generation, might need a few minor modifications to meet your state’s requirements, but the modifications should be relatively straightforward. These modifications are usually minor and didn’t affect the car’s performance or appearance, but they are necessary to complete the registration process.
Importing a car involves several costs, and it’s important to budget accordingly.
The total cost of importing a car includes the purchase price, shipping fees, customs duties, any necessary modifications, and registration fees. It’s easy to overlook some of these costs, so it’s important to plan ahead.
There are often hidden fees associated with importing a car, such as port handling charges or additional insurance costs. These can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor them into your budget.
When your car arrives, it’s important to thoroughly inspect it before driving away. Check for any damage that may have occurred during shipping and ensure that all the necessary paperwork is in order. If you encounter any issues, such as damage or missing documentation, it’s important to address them immediately. Contact the shipping company or your broker to resolve any problems.
After all the paperwork and logistics are sorted, it’s time to enjoy your new import! Taking your Miata out for its first drive will surely be an unforgettable experience. Time to take the center stage at your local car club, share your import experience and connect with other enthusiasts.
1. How long does the import process usually take? The entire process, from purchasing the car to getting it on the road in the U.S., typically takes 6-8 weeks. This includes the time required for shipping, customs clearance, and registration.
2. What are the risks of importing a car from Japan? The main risks include, possibility of getting scammed, damage during shipping, unforeseen costs, and the possibility of buying a car that doesn’t meet U.S. regulations. Working with a reputable import service can mitigate these risks.
3. Can I import a Miata that’s less than 25 years old? Yes, but it’s much more complicated and expensive. Cars less than 25 years old must meet strict EPA and DOT standards, which often require costly modifications.
4. How much will it cost to import an NA Miata from Japan? With everything added up, importing an NA Miata from Japan could cost anywhere from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the specific circumstances of your purchase and importation process.
5. Do I need to hire a customs broker? While it’s not mandatory, hiring a customs broker is highly recommended, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the import process. A broker can handle the complex paperwork and ensure everything goes smoothly.
6. What happens if my car doesn’t meet U.S. compliance standards? If your car doesn’t meet U.S. standards, you may need to make modifications or, in the worst case, face penalties or the possibility of the car being denied entry. It’s essential to verify compliance before shipping.
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