How much does it cost to import a €20,000 car from Japan to Ireland?
When calculating the cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland, most buyers underestimate the final price.
Looking at a car listed in Japan for €20,000, it's easy to assume that's close to what you'll pay. In reality, that figure is only the starting point.
To understand how much it costs to import a car from Japan to Ireland, you need to factor in shipping, taxes, and registration — all of which add up quickly if you're not prepared.
This guide breaks it down step by step so you can see exactly where your money goes.
To understand the full cost, it's worth looking at a complete breakdown of the cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland.
The starting point: €20,000 purchase price
Let's assume you've found a car in Japan for €20,000 (FOB – price before shipping).
This is the number most buyers focus on, but it doesn't include transport, tax, or any of the Irish registration costs.
Shipping from Japan to Ireland
Shipping typically costs between €1,500 and €2,000, depending on:
- the location in Japan
- the shipping method (RoRo or container)
- current market conditions
For the purpose of this example, we'll use €1,800 to calculate the total cost.
Import duty (10%)
Ireland applies a 10% import duty on vehicles coming from Japan.
For this example, we assume:
- purchase price: €20,000
- shipping: €1,800
- shipping insurance: €200
Total value for duty calculation: €22,000
A 10% of €22,000 = €2,200
Import duty is calculated on the combined value of the vehicle (purchase price), shipping, and insurance.
VAT (23%)
VAT is one of the biggest costs and often the most misunderstood.
It is calculated on the total of vehicle price plus import duty plus shipping
Example:
- Car: €20,000
- Duty: €2,200
- Shipping: €1,800
Total = €24,000
- VAT (23%): €5,520
VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax)
VRT varies significantly depending on the vehicle.
It is based on:
- CO₂ emissions
- Revenue valuation
- vehicle type
For a €20,000 import, VRT typically falls in the range of €6,000 to €12,000. For the purpose of this example, we will use €7,000 to illustrate the total cost.
In many cases, VRT is the biggest unknown when estimating the cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland, as the final amount depends on how Revenue assesses the vehicle.
VRT can vary significantly — see how VRT is calculated on Japanese imports in Ireland.
Port charges and handling
When the car arrives in Ireland, additional costs of €400+ apply.
These typically include:
- port handling
- customs clearance
- documentation
For the purpose of this example, we will use €700 to reflect a more realistic total.
Other costs (Registration, plates, and preparation)
Final costs before driving: €500+
Includes:
- registration
- number plates
- minor preparation for NCT
- NCT Test
For this example, we will use €1,000 to represent a total cost.
Total cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland
Putting everything together:
- Purchase price: €20,000
- Shipping: €1,800
- Insurance: €200
- Import duty: €2,200
- VAT: €5,520
- VRT: €7,000
- Port charges: €700
- Other costs: €1,000
RESULT (cost to import a car to Ireland)
Estimated total range: €38,420
Is it still worth importing?
At first glance, the total might seem high.
But comparing importing to buying locally isn't just about price — it's about value.
At the same budget, imported cars from Japan often offer:
- lower mileage
- better condition
- higher specification
- more choice
For many buyers, that difference outweighs the additional steps involved.
Final thoughts
How much it costs to import a car from Japan to Ireland depends on several factors — especially VRT and the type of vehicle you choose.
The biggest mistake most buyers make is focusing only on the purchase price, without understanding the full cost.
Once you see the full picture, it becomes much easier to decide whether importing is the right move.
FAQ – Importing a Car from Japan to Ireland
How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland?
The total cost to import a car from Japan to Ireland typically ranges between €30,000 and €45,000 for a vehicle priced around €20,000 in Japan. The final price depends on shipping costs, VAT, VRT, and the type of vehicle.
What is included in the cost of importing a car?
The full cost includes: purchase price (FOB), shipping and insurance, import duty (10%), VAT (23%), VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax), port charges and handling registration and plates.
Is it cheaper to import a car from Japan than buy in Ireland?
In many cases, importing can offer better value rather than simply being cheaper. Buyers often get lower mileage vehicles, better condition and higher specifications.
The overall cost may be similar, but the quality difference is usually noticeable.
For a full comparison, see: Importing a car from Japan vs buying in Ireland — what makes more sense?
How long does it take to import a car from Japan to Ireland?
Importing a car from Japan to Ireland typically takes between 14 to 15 weeks. This includes sourcing, shipping, customs clearance, and registration. Timelines can vary depending on the vehicle and shipping schedule, but we'll always give you a realistic estimate upfront so you know what to expect.
Do I need insurance before shipping the car?
Shipping insurance is strongly recommended. It usually costs around €100 to €300 and protects the vehicle during transport from Japan to Ireland.
What is the biggest cost when importing a car?
VRT is often the largest and least predictable cost. VAT is also significant, but it is easier to calculate compared to VRT.
See real import costs based on your budget
If you're considering importing, it's worth getting a clear picture based on your specific car and budget.
No pressure. Just clear answers.