The Ultimate Guide to Importing JDM Kei Trucks

Introduction

Let's talk about some Kei trucks! JDM Kei trucks have become increasingly popular in countries like the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and certain countries in Europe. These Japanese trucks (kei meaning light) offer a perfect combination of functionality, fuel efficiency (being less than 660cc), and reliability (seriously, they never break). Whether you need a utility vehicle for farming, as a local delivery vehicle, or to modify and create a drifting truck (they exist now!), importing a Japanese mini truck is the way to go!

In this ultimate guide, I will provide you with all the information you need to know about importing them into the US. From understanding what JDM Kei trucks are to choosing the best 5 models to import (in my opinion), complying with US import laws, and navigating the auction process, I've got you covered.

So, without further ado, let's dive in and discover everything you need to know.

ZervTek Co., Ltd - Your Partner in JDM Sourcing and Importing

When it comes to importing a JDM, having a reliable partner by your side can make all the difference. ZervTek Co., Ltd is a trusted company that specializes in vehicle sourcing and export, providing you with peace of mind and ensuring a smooth and seamless process from start to finish, taking care of everything up to the destination port. Throughout the entire process, we offer friendly, honest, and efficient service to help you get the motor vehicles you want at a price you can afford.

We source vehicles through the Japanese auto auctions. This allows us to provide a service where we look through the auctions together with you through a ton of options that come through the auctions each week. Our fees are set and transparent. Moreover, only dealers have access to the auctions which means that you will be buying cheaper/at a wholesale price. We start by going through upcoming vehicles together and selecting which ones to bid on up to your maximum budget. We require a refundable deposit to bid and purchase a vehicle on your behalf. This deposit is 100% refundable if you decide not to buy through the auctions, and if we do win a vehicle, the deposit will be subtracted from your final invoice. I will send you the translations of the auction sheets for any car that you're interested in and before the auctions, we will get you extra photos and a video of the car. Once won, we will transport it directly to the shipping yard prep for shipping, and send you extra photos before shipping. We will also show you the price we bought the car at and will not have any hidden charges anywhere.

Top 5 JDM Kei Trucks to Import into the US/Australia/New Zealand or Europe

Here are the top 5 JDM Kei trucks that I highly recommend for importing into the US:

Daihatsu Hijet: The Daihatsu Hijet is a popular choice due to its reliability, compact size, and versatility. It offers a range of body styles and features, making it suitable for various applications.

Suzuki Carry: The Suzuki Carry is another highly sought-after JDM Kei truck. It is known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and excellent payload capacity. The Suzuki Carry is available in both 2WD and 4WD options.

Honda Acty: The Honda Acty is a compact and reliable JDM Kei truck that offers excellent fuel efficiency and a spacious interior. It is available in both van and pickup truck configurations, making it suitable for various needs.

Subaru Sambar: The Subaru Sambar is a popular choice for those looking for a JDM Kei truck for sale with off-road capabilities. It offers a range of features, including a differential lock and a low-range transfer case, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.

Mitsubishi Minicab: The Mitsubishi Minicab is known for its reliability and versatility. It is available in various body styles, including van, pickup truck, and dump bed options, offering a solution for different needs.

The Suzuki Carry

The Suzuki Carry is available in both 2WD and part-time 4WD options, making it suitable for various applications. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate through narrow streets. The Suzuki Carry is also known for its durability, making it a reliable choice for daily use.

One of the standout features of the Suzuki Carry is its differential lock, or "diff lock", which provides enhanced traction and stability in challenging off-road conditions. This makes the Suzuki Carry a great option for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a mini truck with off-road capabilities. The seventh generation came with a part-time 4WD and turbocharged engine in the eighth and ninth generations of the Carry.

The Mazda Scrum

The Mazda Scrum is another popular JDM Kei truck that is worth considering for importation into the US. This compact and mini-sized truck offers great fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and reliability.

The Mazda Scrum is known for its compact size, making it easy to navigate through narrow streets and tight spaces. Despite its small size, the Mazda Scrum offers a surprisingly spacious interior, providing ample room for occupants and cargo.

If you're looking for a compact and versatile mini truck that offers great value for money, the Mazda Scrum is a worthy option to consider. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and Mazda's reputation for quality make it a reliable choice for various needs.

The Mitsubishi Minicab

The Mitsubishi Minicab is a popular JDM Kei truck that offers a perfect combination of reliability, versatility, and practicality. This mini truck is known for its compact size, making it ideal for urban environments and tight spaces.

One of the standout features of the Mitsubishi Minicab is its manual transmission, which gives drivers full control over gear shifting and allows for a more engaging driving experience. The manual transmission also contributes to the overall fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

The Mitsubishi Minicab is available in various body styles, including van, pickup truck, and dump bed options, providing solutions for different needs. Its compact size and maneuverability make it easy to navigate through narrow streets and crowded areas.

With its versatility and low operating costs, the Mitsubishi Minicab is a practical choice for various applications, such as local delivery, small businesses, and light-duty work. Its reliability and durability make it an excellent investment for those looking for a reliable and efficient mini truck.

The Daihatsu Hijet

The Daihatsu Hijet is a highly popular Japanese K truck that is renowned for its reliability, versatility, and practicality. This mini truck offers a perfect combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and payload capacity.

One of the standout features of the Daihatsu Hijet is its dump bed option, which allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo. This makes it a great choice for those involved in construction, landscaping, and other industries that require frequent hauling of materials.

The Daihatsu Hijet is available in both 2WD and 4WD options, providing flexibility for different applications and terrains. Its compact size and maneuverability make it easy to navigate through narrow streets and tight spaces.

As a kei truck, the Daihatsu Hijet meets the specific size and engine displacement limits set by the Japanese government. This ensures that the vehicle offers excellent fuel efficiency without compromising on performance.

Whether you need a mini truck for work or personal use, the Daihatsu Hijet is a reliable and versatile choice. Its reliability, versatility, and innovative features make it a popular option for those looking to import a JDM Kei truck.

The Honda Acty

The Honda Acty is a popular JDM Kei truck that offers impressive reliability, fuel efficiency, and versatility. This mini truck is known for its compact size, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments and tight spaces.

The Acty is available in both van and pickup truck configurations, offering flexibility for different needs and preferences. Whether you need a vehicle for local delivery, small businesses, or personal use, the Honda Acty has you covered.

One of the standout features of the Honda Acty is its spacious interior, which provides ample room for occupants and cargo. Despite its small size, the Honda Acty offers a surprisingly comfortable and practical driving experience.

For those looking for a mini truck with off-road capabilities, the Honda Acty is a great choice. Its 4WD option, combined with its compact size and excellent maneuverability, makes it ideal for outdoor adventures and challenging terrains.

Complying with US Import Laws

When importing a JDM Kei truck into the US, it is essential to comply with US import laws to ensure a smooth and legal importation process. Here are some key considerations:

Age Requirement: JDM Kei trucks must be at least 25 years old to be eligible for importation into the US.

Right-Hand Drive (RHD): JDM Kei trucks are typically right-hand drive vehicles, which means the driver sits on the right side of the vehicle. This is permissible in the US, but it's important to be aware of the differences in driving position and visibility.

Necessary Documentation: We will provide all the documents required to get the import process started. This includes the original title (export certificate), bill of sale (Invoice), and bill of lading. You will require an import broker for importation, you can find more information about importing to the US here.

Getting Started With Importing A Kei Truck From Japan.

Thank you for considering ZervTek. You can reach out to us via WhatsApp or Email. WhatsApp is generally faster since we can talk in real-time, and send over auction sheet translations and photos/videos from inspections- all official documents can be sent via Email. Please let us know your preferences for the vehicle and a ballpark budget so that we can search upcoming vehicles alongside you, and make recommendations. You can also get registered in our auction portal to start browsing upcoming vehicles and check recent sold-out data to understand what the market price is like for the model that you're keen on.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, importing JDM Kei Trucks can be a rewarding experience for vehicle enthusiasts. These compact and versatile trucks offer unique advantages and are well-suited for various purposes. If you're considering importing a JDM Kei Truck, ZervTek offers a comprehensive set of services, including free Japanese auction access, auction sheet translations, vehicle inspections, purchase, and shipping, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free process. Whether you're interested in a Suzuki Carry, Mazda Scrum, Mitsubishi Minicab, Daihatsu Hijet, or Honda Acty, we can help you find the perfect JDM Kei Truck for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the import process take?

The duration of the import process for a JDM Kei truck can vary depending on various factors, including the shipping method, location, and customs clearance procedures. On average, the process can take anywhere from 4-10 weeks.

Are there any hidden costs involved in importing a Kei Truck?

There are no hidden charges. The total up to the destination port will be [Vehicle price at the auction + Export fees + Shipping charges]. There can be other costs when importing a kei truck, such as customs duties, taxes, and fees for compliance modifications. The customer is responsible for figuring out our destination charges as they change depending on the country.

Can ZervTek assist with vehicle procurement outside of auctions?

Yes, ZervTek can assist with vehicle procurement outside of auctions. Our services include sourcing vehicles from local dealerships, Yahoo Auctions, and other channels to meet your specific requirements. ZervTek provides a comprehensive solution for your vehicle sourcing needs beyond just auctions.

What is the average lifespan of a JDM Kei Truck?

The average lifespan of a JDM Kei truck varies depending on factors like maintenance, usage, and model. Generally, these trucks can last over 200,000 miles with proper care. Regular servicing and adherence to manufacturer guidelines can significantly extend their longevity.