How Sakura Connects Kiwis with Quality Japanese Cars

At Sakura Auto Imports, we make importing a car from Japan simple, transparent, and stress-free. From selecting the right vehicle to final delivery in New Zealand, every step is carefully managed with clear communication and full cost transparency.

Whether you're importing your first car or looking for something specific, our process is designed to give you complete confidence from start to finish.

Your Import Journey

A Clear, Step-by-Step Path to Ownership

Step 1 - Define Your Car

Explore Japanese auction data to find your ideal vehicle and understand real market prices. This helps you set a clear budget with confidence, with thousands of vehicles available to choose from.

Step 2 – Engagement & Initial Deposit

Once you’re ready to proceed, we confirm the process with a simple engagement agreement and initial deposit.

By signing and placing the $1,000 deposit (part of the $1,750 service fee), Sakura Auto Imports begins working with our trusted Japanese strategic partners. Our team in Japan then starts preparing auction schedules, shortlisting suitable vehicles, and coordinating bidding on your behalf.

This ensures a focused and efficient start to your import journey with full commitment from both sides.

Step 3 - Secure the Vehicle （Auction Purchase）

Once a suitable vehicle has been confirmed, we proceed to auction with your approval.

Before bidding, a 10% deposit of the vehicle value is required. This confirms commitment and allows our Japanese partners to proceed with bidding on your behalf.

If the vehicle is successfully purchased at auction, the remaining 90% vehicle balance must be paid in full immediately, along with the following costs:

  • FOB & Auction Fees: $1,700
  • Steam Cleaning (MAF Japan): $250

Once full payment is completed, we immediately arrange transport of the vehicle to port for export and shipment to New Zealand.

Step 4 – Shipping & Export Arrangement

We manage the full export and shipping process from Japan to New Zealand on your behalf.

Once your vehicle is booked onto a vessel, you will be notified in advance with shipment details and expected arrival timing.

Approximately 10 days before the vessel arrives in New Zealand, the shipping line will issue the freight invoice. We will promptly notify you to arrange payment of the shipping costs.

Shipping fees must be paid prior to the vehicle’s arrival to ensure smooth customs clearance and unloading on arrival.

Step 5 – Customs Clearance

Upon arrival in New Zealand, we coordinate the full customs clearance process on your behalf.

You will be guided through the payment of all applicable import charges, including:

  • Customs duties (if applicable)
  • GST and related import taxes

All required documentation is prepared and managed by us to ensure a smooth and compliant clearance process with New Zealand Customs.

Step 6 – Compliance & Inspection

After customs clearance, your vehicle is delivered to an approved compliance centre (such as VTNZ or AA) for final inspection and certification.

We coordinate the full compliance process, including:

  • Compliance inspection
  • Certification
  • Warrant of Fitness (WOF), if applicable

At this stage, the following standard costs are payable:

  • Compliance: $750
  • On-road costs (Registration & Plates): $300

This ensures your vehicle fully meets all New Zealand road safety and legal requirements before registration and delivery.

Step 7 – Registration & Final Delivery

Once compliance is successfully completed, your vehicle moves into final registration and delivery preparation.

The vehicle is registered in your name and number plates are issued, ensuring it is fully road-legal in New Zealand.

At this stage, the remaining balances are settled, including the final $750 Sakura Auto Imports service fee.

Your vehicle is then delivered to your doorstep, ready for you to enjoy.

🌸 Welcome to the Sakura Experience

Congratulations on your new vehicle, and thank you for choosing Sakura Auto Imports.

We’re proud to be part of your import journey. Even after delivery, our team remains available to support you with any questions or assistance you may need.

We hope you enjoy your new vehicle, along with the confidence that comes from a transparent, well-managed import process.