RoRo and Container Ports for Importing Japanese Cars

If you’re looking to purchase and import a JDM car from Japan, you might be unsure as to what ports allow the import of Japanese cars and which are closest to you. While ZervTek ships to many countries around the globe, not all ports can import vehicles. Down below is a quick list of ports at the most popular destinations that we ship to so using roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) carriers. Some ports will have multiple ships per month; others could have one or even none.

Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ships/carriers are cargo ships that were designed to carry vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses. Vehicles are driven on and off the ship using their wheels or a platform vehicle like a self-propelled modular transport. This method of self-loading differs from lift-on/lift-off (LoLo) vessels. which use cranes to load and unload cargo.

We use the best car shipping services to ship the vehicles. 

Container shipping sometimes has different ports, and the prices are different compared to RoRo shipping; all these prices vary a lot due to various factors, so it's always best to inquire through our sales team for the prices of shipping for Container and RoRo. 

There are 2 ways you can use container shipping: 

1. You can book a container if you plan on purchasing multiple cars. A 20ft container will fit 2 vehicles, and a 40ft container can accommodate 3-4 cars.
    
2. If a container is already waiting to be shipped to your port, you can reserve your spot and share the container with whoever else is shipping to your port.

List of ports in Japan we export from

Kobe Port: A Major International Hub Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe Port stands as one of Japan's busiest container hubs. Renowned for its diverse industrial base, which includes steelworks and shipbuilding, Kobe also attracts tourists with landmarks like Meriken Park and the iconic Kobe Port Tower. Crucially, Kobe excels in car shipping services, particularly roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations, making it a cornerstone of Zervtek's logistics network. 

Kawasaki Port: Industrial Powerhouse Situated in Kanagawa Prefecture between Tokyo and Yokohama, Kawasaki Port plays a pivotal role in Japan's industrial landscape. It handles vast quantities of raw materials and manufactured goods, supporting heavy industries such as steel and chemicals. Its strategic location near Tokyo enhances its logistical capabilities, making Kawasaki integral to our car shipping operations, especially for RoRo vessels.

Kyushu Ports: The Southwestern Gateway Kyushu, Japan's southwesternmost main island, hosts several key ports including Hakata in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kitakyushu. These ports are vital for car shipping services, enabling efficient RoRo operations. Their strategic position facilitates smooth vehicle transportation, reinforcing Kyushu's importance in Zervtek's export activities. 

Yokohama Port: A Key Player Yokohama Port, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, is one of Japan's largest and most important ports. It serves as a major gateway for international trade and is well-equipped to handle high volumes of vehicle shipments. The port's proximity to Tokyo and its advanced infrastructure make it a crucial link in our supply chain. 

Nagoya Port: Central Japan's Shipping Giant Nagoya Port, situated in Aichi Prefecture, is one of the largest and busiest ports in Japan. It supports a wide range of industries, including automotive, machinery, and chemicals. Nagoya's strategic location in central Japan and its state-of-the-art facilities make it a key hub for Zervtek's car exporting operations.

Osaka Port: The Western Powerhouse Located in Osaka Prefecture, Osaka Port is another major player in Japan's maritime industry. It handles a diverse array of cargo and is particularly known for its advanced logistics and distribution capabilities. Osaka Port's strategic location and robust infrastructure support Zervtek's efficient vehicle shipping processes.
 

The strategic locations of these ports provide Zervtek with unparalleled advantages in logistics and trade. Their proximity to major auction sites ensures that vehicles can be transported quickly and efficiently, minimizing transit times and costs. By utilizing these ports, Zervtek can offer reliable and timely car shipping services to customers worldwide. At Zervtek, we are committed to leveraging the strengths of Japan's premier ports to deliver exceptional service and value to our clients. Our comprehensive understanding of these key shipping hubs enables us to optimize our logistics operations, ensuring that your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on schedule.

List of ports in the US

Port of Tacoma: A Pacific Northwest Hub. Located in Washington state, the Port of Tacoma is a critical hub in the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its container handling capabilities and strategic location, which supports various industries, including aerospace, manufacturing, and agriculture. The port's advanced facilities and efficient operations make it a pivotal point in Zervtek's logistics network, particularly for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) JDM shipping.

Port of Long Beach: The West Coast Giant. Situated in California, the Port of Long Beach is one of the busiest and most significant ports in the United States. It serves as a vital gateway for international trade, handling a vast array of cargo types. The port's proximity to major automotive manufacturers and its state-of-the-art infrastructure makes it essential for Zervtek's JDM car shipping operations, especially for RoRo vessels.

Port of Baltimore: The Mid-Atlantic Powerhouse. The Port of Baltimore is located in Maryland and is renowned for its high-volume automotive shipments. It supports a diverse range of industries, including steel, electronics, and consumer goods. The port's strategic location on the East Coast and its advanced logistics facilities ensure efficient vehicle handling.

Port of Jacksonville: The Southeastern Gateway. Situated in Florida, the Port of Jacksonville is a crucial hub for RoRo operations in the Southeastern United States. It is well-equipped to handle large volumes of vehicle shipments and support logistics, manufacturing, and distribution industries. The port's strategic position enhances its ability to facilitate smooth and timely transportation, reinforcing its importance in Zervtek's export activities.

Port of New York: An East Coast Giant. The Port of New York, located in New York and New Jersey, is one of the East Coast's largest and most significant ports. It serves as a major hub for international trade and is equipped to handle high volumes of vehicle shipments. The port's proximity to major urban centers and its extensive infrastructure make it a crucial link in Zervtek's supply chain.

Port of Galveston: The Gulf Coast Gateway. The Port of Galveston is located in Texas and vital in the Gulf Coast region's maritime industry. It supports a wide range of cargo, including automobiles, agricultural products, and machinery. The port's strategic location and robust facilities enable efficient vehicle shipping processes, making it a key hub for Zervtek's JDM car imports!

Port of Newport News: The Mid-Atlantic Connector. Situated in Virginia, the Port of Newport News is a significant port in the Mid-Atlantic region. It handles a diverse array of cargo and is particularly known for its shipbuilding and repair capabilities. The port's advanced logistics infrastructure and strategic location support Zervtek's efficient vehicle shipping operations, ensuring timely deliveries.

Port Freeport: The Texas Advantage. Located in Texas, Port Freeport is a growing hub in the Gulf Coast region. It is well-equipped to handle various types of cargo, including vehicles, chemicals, and agricultural products. The port's strategic position and modern facilities make it an essential part of Zervtek's logistics network, supporting efficient JDM and classic car shipping services.

Port of Savannah: The Southeastern Powerhouse. Situated in Georgia, the Port of Savannah is one of the busiest and most significant ports on the East Coast. It serves as a major gateway for international trade and is well-known for its efficient container-handling capabilities. The port's strategic location and advanced infrastructure make it a crucial hub for car shipping operations, particularly for RoRo vessels.

List of ports in Canada

Port of New Westminster: A Western Canadian Hub. Located in British Columbia, the Port of New Westminster is a key player in Western Canada's maritime industry. It supports various industries, including forestry, manufacturing, and agriculture. The port's strategic location along the Fraser River and its efficient cargo handling capabilities are known for particularly roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vehicle shipping.

Port of Vancouver: The Pacific Gateway. Situated in British Columbia, the Port of Vancouver is the largest and busiest port in Canada. It serves as a critical gateway for international trade, handling a vast array of cargo types. The port's proximity to major industrial centers and its state-of-the-art infrastructure make it indispensable for Zervtek's car shipping operations, especially for RoRo vessels. Vancouver's strategic position on the Pacific coast enhances its logistical capabilities, supporting efficient vehicle transportation and reinforcing its importance in Zervtek customer's Japanese car imports.

Port of Halifax: The Atlantic Advantage. Located in Nova Scotia, the Port of Halifax is a major hub on Canada's East Coast. It plays a pivotal role in connecting North America to European and Asian markets. The port's advanced facilities and deep-water berths allow it to handle large volumes of vehicle shipments and other cargo types. Halifax's strategic location means it imports mostly brand-new vehicles and often takes longer to get spaces/bookings for shipping used Japanese cars than Port of Vancouver.

List of ports in Australia

Australian shipping is postpaid.

Port of Brisbane: A Key Queensland Gateway. Located in Queensland, the Port of Brisbane is one of Australia's fastest-growing container ports. It plays a major role in supporting industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and mining. The port's modern facilities and strategic location on the eastern coast make it a crucial part of the logistics network, particularly for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vehicle shipping. Its advanced infrastructure ensures efficient and reliable operations, enhancing the ability to provide timely car shipping services.

Port Kembla: An Industrial Powerhouse. Situated in New South Wales, Port Kembla is a major player in Australia's maritime industry, particularly known for its steelworks and automotive handling capabilities. The port's strategic location and specialized infrastructure make it indispensable for car shipping operations. Port Kembla's efficient RoRo facilities ensure smooth JDM import and transportation, reinforcing its importance in export activities.

Port of Melbourne: Australia's Busiest Port. Located in Victoria, the Port of Melbourne is the largest and busiest port in Australia. It serves as a vital gateway for international trade, handling a diverse array of cargo, including vehicles, machinery, and consumer goods. The port's proximity to major industrial centers and its state-of-the-art infrastructure make it essential for car shipping operations, especially for RoRo vessels. Melbourne's strategic position enhances its logistical capabilities, supporting efficient vehicle transportation.

Port of Adelaide: The Southern Hub. Situated in South Australia, the Port of Adelaide is a critical hub for the region's maritime activities. It supports various industries, including automotive, agriculture, and mining. The port's advanced facilities and strategic location make it a key part of the logistics network. Its efficient RoRo operations ensure reliable vehicle handling and transportation, making Adelaide an important hub for car exporting processes.

Port of Fremantle: The Western Gateway. Located in Western Australia, the Port of Fremantle is a major gateway for international trade on the western coast. It handles a wide range of cargo, including vehicles, grain, and minerals. The port's strategic location and modern infrastructure make it vital for car shipping operations. Fremantle's efficient RoRo facilities support smooth and timely vehicle transportation, reinforcing its significance in logistics.

Port of Darwin: The Northern Advantage. Situated in the Northern Territory, the Port of Darwin is a crucial hub for Australia's northern maritime activities. It plays a significant role in connecting Australia to Asian markets. The port's advanced facilities and strategic location make it an essential part of the logistics operations. Darwin's efficient RoRo capabilities ensure reliable vehicle handling and transportation, making it a key hub for car exporting activities.

List of ports in New Zealand

Port of Auckland: New Zealand's Busiest Hub. The Port of Auckland is New Zealand's largest and busiest port on the North Island. It plays a critical role in supporting the country's trade and economy, handling a diverse range of cargo, including vehicles, consumer goods, and machinery. The port's strategic location and modern facilities make it an essential part of the logistics network, particularly for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vehicle shipping. Its advanced infrastructure ensures efficient and reliable operations, enhancing the ability to provide timely car shipping services.

Port of Lyttelton: The South Island's Gateway. Situated near Christchurch on the South Island, the Port of Lyttelton is a key player in New Zealand's maritime industry. It supports various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. While primarily known for handling containerized cargo and bulk goods, Lyttelton's facilities can accommodate vehicle imports and exports, making it relevant for certain car shipping operations. 

Port of Wellington: The Capital's Maritime Hub. Located on the North Island, the Port of Wellington is a significant port in New Zealand's capital city. It serves as a vital gateway for international and domestic trade, handling a diverse array of cargo, including vehicles, forestry products, and foodstuffs. The port's proximity to major industrial centers and its state-of-the-art infrastructure make it essential for logistics operations, including handling vehicles through various means. However, it is not a primary RoRo port.

Port of Nelson: The Northern South Island Link. Situated on the northern coast of the South Island, the Port of Nelson is a crucial hub for the region's maritime activities. It supports various industries, including forestry, fishing, and agriculture. The port's facilities are geared towards handling bulk and breakbulk cargo, with some capacity for vehicle shipments. However, it is not primarily known for RoRo operations.

List of ports in Europe

Let's ensure accuracy and clarity regarding the capabilities of each port:

Port of Larnaca: Cyprus's Maritime Hub. Located in Cyprus, the Port of Larnaca serves as a significant maritime gateway for the island nation. It primarily handles containerized and bulk cargo, with limited facilities for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations.

Port of Limassol: Cyprus's Main Port. Also situated in Cyprus, the Port of Limassol is the largest and busiest port in the country. It handles diverse cargo such as containers, general cargo, and liquid bulk. Limassol supports roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations for vehicles, making it a versatile hub for vehicle imports and exports.

Port of Bremerhaven: Germany's Major Seaport. Located in Germany, the Port of Bremerhaven is one of Europe's largest and busiest seaports. It is renowned for its extensive facilities for handling vehicles, including state-of-the-art roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminals that support efficient vehicle transportation across Europe and beyond.

Port of Dublin: Ireland's Key Gateway. Situated in Ireland, the Port of Dublin is the country's largest port and serves as a vital gateway for international trade. It handles diverse cargo types, including containers and bulk commodities. Dublin has dedicated roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminals, supporting efficient car shipping operations.

Port of Tyne: A Northern English Hub. Located in northeastern England, the Port of Tyne is a major seaport handling various types of cargo, including bulk commodities and containers. While they mainly focus on bulk and containerized cargo, Tyne also has facilities for handling roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vehicle shipments.

Port of Southampton: Southern England's Maritime Center. Situated on the southern coast of England, the Port of Southampton is one of the UK's busiest ports. It is a vital hub for containerized cargo, automobiles, and cruise ships. Southampton has modern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) facilities that support efficient vehicle transportation.

Port of Grimsby: A North Sea Port. Located on the eastern coast of England, the Port of Grimsby is significant in the North Sea region. It focuses on bulk cargo and supports limited roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations for vehicle shipments.

Port of Bristol: A Southwest England Hub. Situated in southwestern England, the Port of Bristol is a major regional port handling various cargo types, including containers and bulk commodities. Bristol supports limited roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations for vehicle shipments.

Port of Felixstowe: UK's Largest Container Port. Located in Suffolk, England, the Port of Felixstowe is the UK's largest container port and one of the busiest in Europe. It handles a significant portion of the country's containerized cargo and has extensive facilities for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipments, including vehicles.

List of ports in the Middle East & South Asia

List of ports in West Africa

Shipping Process

1. Choosing the Right Port: Depending on your location, choose the most convenient port for the import. Consider factors like proximity, shipping frequency, and customs regulations.

2. Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: ZervTek uses RoRo carriers for efficient and safe transportation. Your car will be driven onto the ship at the port of origin and driven off at the destination port, minimizing handling and potential damage.

3. Customs and Documentation: Ensure all necessary paperwork, including the bill of lading, import permit, and any other required documents, are prepared. ZervTek can assist with guidance on the documentation process.

4. Shipping Charges and Schedules: Contact ZervTek to get detailed information about shipping charges, schedules, and any other specific requirements for your vehicle. Costs can vary based on the vehicle's size, weight, and the destination port.

Contact Information

For further inquiries about the ports, shipping charges, and shipping schedules, contact ZervTek through the following channels:

• WhatsApp Link
• Email: sales@zervtek.com
• Website: www.zervtek.com

Importing a JDM car can be seamless with the right guidance and support. ZervTek is committed to providing you with all the information and services needed to ensure a smooth import process.