Purchase FAQs

• Q
   How long do you reserve a product for me? +
• A
  As long as you meet the payment deadline (48 hours for T/T copy & 120 hours for payment confirmation at our bank from the time the invoice is issued), the product is reserved for you.
• Q
   I cannot find my nearest port. What should I do? +
• A
  If you cannot find your nearest port, it is not in our common port list. Please select the closest available port in your country or region.
• Q
   Can I request a car that is not listed on SAWAMOTOR? +
• A
  Yes, you can. Send us an inquiry with your requirements, and we will provide you with pricing. If you agree, we will issue an invoice, and after payment confirmation, we will arrange shipping.
• Q
   When does the purchase contract get established? +
• A
  The contract is established between you and the seller (mentioned in the invoice) when we send you a “Payment Confirmation” email.
• Q
   How can I follow the progress of my purchase? +
• A
  Log in to your account on SAWAMOTOR to track shipment progress. If you need additional details, contact us through the Inquiry Thread.
• Q
   Can I get additional pictures of a product before buying? +
• A
  We generally do not provide extra pictures to keep costs low. If existing images are insufficient, you may request more, but availability is not guaranteed.
• Q
   Can you change the odometer reading on request? +
• A
  No, we do not provide this service.
• Q
   Who are the parties in the purchase contract? +
• A
  The contract is between you and the seller of the product. SAWAMOTOR acts as your representative to ensure a safe and fair transaction.
• Q
   Do you provide spare keys? +
• A
  We do not guarantee a spare key. If one is available, it will be sent with the car. Additional spare keys can be requested at extra cost.
• Q
   Can I install additional options like alloy wheels or rear cameras? +
• A
  We do not provide this service for listed cars, as installation costs in Japan are about 30% higher than in most other countries. However, you may consult with us beforehand.
• Q
   What are the rules for canceling a purchase? +
• A
  1. Before payment, you may cancel anytime without cost.
  2. After payment, cancellation will incur a fee of 50% of the invoice amount or US$2000, whichever is higher.
  3. After shipping is scheduled, cancellations are not accepted, and no refunds are provided.
  4. If export/delivery cannot proceed due to the buyer’s failure to provide required documents within 30 days, it is considered a cancellation by the buyer, and cancellation fees will apply.

SAWAMOTOR's Standard Terms of Trade

My Account & Password

• Q
   Is it free to have an account at SAWAMOTOR CO. LTD? +
• A
  Yes, creating an account with SAWAMOTOR CO. LTD is completely free. There are no registration or monthly fees.
• Q
   How do I create an account? +
• A
  Follow these steps to create an account:

  1. Click “Login/Sign Up” and select "Sign Up" on the top right of our homepage (www.sawamotor.com).
  2. Enter your full name, email address, password, and other required details.
  3. Click “Create Account” to complete your registration.
• Q
   How do I log in? +
• A
  To log in:

  1. Click “Login/Sign Up” and select "Log In" on the top right of our homepage (www.sawamotor.com).
  2. Enter the email and password you registered with.
  3. Click the "Log In" button to access your account.
• Q
   What should I do if I forget my password? +
• A
  If you forget your password, you can reset it by visiting: https://sawamotor.com/forgot-password.
  An email will be sent to your registered email address with instructions to set up a new password.
• Q
   Why can't I log in? +
• A
  If you're unable to log in, try the following:

  • Use the "Forgot Password" option to reset your password.
  • Ensure you are entering the correct email and password.
  • If the issue persists, contact us at ask@sawamotor.com.
• Q
   How is my personal information protected? +
• A
  We use SSL encryption to protect all information transmitted to our website, ensuring data security. We also adhere to a strict Privacy Policy, which you can review here: Privacy Policy.
• Q
   Is it safe to use my real name and information to create an account? +
• A
  Yes, it is safe to use your real name and correct contact information when creating an account.
  Providing accurate details ensures that invoices and shipping documents contain the correct Consignee and Notify Party information.
  Incorrect information may cause issues in the export process.
  Your personal data is protected under our Privacy Policy.

Car Conditions

Understanding Auction Grades and Inspection Reports

In Japan, used car auction grades are assigned by inspectors from auction houses to assess the overall condition of a vehicle. There are over 115 auction houses in Japan that evaluate and provide these grades based on mechanical and visual inspections. While different auction houses may have slightly varying criteria, the grading system remains quite consistent across all of them.

Overall Grade System

The overall condition of a vehicle is represented by numerical or alphabetical grades. Additionally, some auctions use letter grades (A, B, C, D, or E) to describe the interior and exterior condition of the car.

• Grade 6 or S: Considered as brand new, less than 12 months old, with under 10,000km mileage.
• Grade 5: Nearly new with exceptionally low mileage.
• Grade 4.5: Very slightly used with mileage up to 100,000km, no accident history.
• Grade 4: Used car with minor visible flaws, no accident history.
• Grade 3.5: Good condition, visible flaws, no accident history.
• Grade 3: Average condition with minor damage.
• Grade 2 or 1: Poor condition with significant damage but still functional.
• Grade R: Vehicle has undergone repairs due to past accidents.
• Grade RA: Vehicle with minor accident history, fully repaired.

Interior and Exterior Condition Ratings

Japanese car auctions also provide separate grades for the interior and exterior condition of the vehicle.

Interior Condition Grades:

• A: Excellent, like new.
• B: Good condition, clean and well-maintained.
• C: Minor stains or cigarette burns.
• D: Noticeable stains, cigarette burns, or unpleasant odors.
• E: Poor condition with significant wear and damage.

Exterior Condition Grades:

• A: Excellent, like new.
• B: Small scratches (up to 15 cm).
• C: Scratches (up to 30 cm) or minor dents.
• D: Visible scratches, rust, or minor corrosion.
• E: Poor condition with extensive rust, corrosion, or body damage.

Understanding Auction Inspection Marks

If an auction sheet is available, you can check the vehicle's condition in more detail using the following marks:

• A1, A2, A3: Small, medium, and large scratches.
• B: Dent with a scratch.
• E1, E2, E3: Few, several, or many small dents.
• U1, U2, U3: Small, medium, or large dents.
• W1, W2, W3: Minor to significant repair marks.
• S1, S2: Minor to heavy rust.
• X, XX: Parts that need replacement or have been replaced.
• B1, B2: Distortion of the radiator support.
• Y1, Y2, Y3: Small to large cracks or holes.
• X1, R, RX, X: Windshield cracks requiring repairs or replacement.
• G: Stone chip in the glass.
• C1, C2: Light to heavy corrosion.
• P: Marked paint.
• H: Faded paint.

Finding the Right Car

Choosing the right car depends on factors like model, color, year, and budget. To make your search easier, SAWAMOTOR CO. LTD provides a powerful search engine that allows filtering based on multiple criteria, such as price, mileage, year, and auction grade. You can also sort the results based on what matters most to you.

If you need assistance in choosing the right car, feel free to contact us for recommendations at ask@sawamotor.com. We’re here to help you find your dream car!

Used Terms

FAQs

• Q
   What do I need to do to buy a car? +
• A
  To purchase a car, you must first register on our platform. Once registered, you can browse and select any available vehicle for purchase.
• Q
   Who can register as a member? +
• A
  Both automobile dealers and individual buyers can register. However, individual buyers should verify their country's import regulations before purchasing, as we cannot provide legal advice or recommend import agents.
• Q
   How many used cars are available in your inventory and auctions? +
• A
  We typically have over a thousand vehicles in our regular inventory. Additionally, you can access around 150,000 cars per week through various online auctions.
• Q
   What payment methods do you accept? +
• A
  Due to frequent credit card fraud, we do not accept credit card payments. We only accept telegraphic transfers (T/T) to our designated bank account.
• Q
   How long does it take for my car to arrive? +
• A
  The delivery time depends on the shipping schedule. Generally, it takes between 4 to 8 weeks for your car to arrive.
• Q
   Are there any membership fees? +
• A
  No, there are no membership fees or hidden charges. Registration is completely free.
• Q
   What additional costs will I have to pay? +
• A
  If the car price is FOB, you will need to cover freight charges, clearance fees, import duties, registration fees, and compliance costs, as per your country's regulations. If the price is C&F, freight charges are included.
• Q
   Can I purchase LHD cars? +
• A
  LHD cars are rare in Japan. However, we have access to inventories from Korea and the United States, where LHD cars are more common.
• Q
   Can I cancel my purchase order? +
• A
  Yes, but canceling an order incurs additional costs. If you cancel, you will need to cover any expenses incurred, including re-auctioning fees.
• Q
   Are the cars inspected before shipping? +
• A
  Yes, every car undergoes a thorough inspection to verify that the specifications match those listed on the sheet.

Payments & Refund FAQs

• Q
   What currencies do you accept? +
• A
  We accept payments in USD and JPY. If you wish to use another currency, please contact us to discuss options.
• Q
   How do I make a payment? +
• A
  Once purchase terms are agreed upon, we will issue an invoice detailing the payment amount, deadline, and bank account details. Payments can be made via bank transfer or PayPal.
• Q
   Can I pay in installments? +
• A
  No, full payment via T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) is required before shipment. After payment, we will begin the shipping process and provide necessary documents via DHL.
• Q
   What happens if I accidentally send payment to the wrong account? +
• A
  Unfortunately, we cannot assist in retrieving funds. If you can recover the amount and resend it to the correct account within the payment deadline, we will proceed with the shipment.
• Q
   What payment methods do you accept? +
• A
  We accept bank transfers (full amount) and PayPal (including credit card payments via PayPal). All bank fees must be covered by the buyer.
• Q
   Do you accept L/C (Letter of Credit) payments? +
• A
  Currently, we do not accept L/C payments. This may change in the future.
• Q
   What is the payment deadline? +
• A
  The T/T copy must be shared within 48 hours of invoice issuance. The full amount must reach our bank within 120 hours. Missing these deadlines may result in the product being sold to another buyer.
• Q
   Who is responsible for bank transfer fees? +
• A
  The buyer is responsible for all bank transfer fees. If we cancel a transaction, we will cover the bank fees to refund 100% of your payment.
• Q
   Will you hold the product for me after 48 hours? +
• A
  Yes, we will hold the product for up to 120 hours if the T/T copy is shared on time. Since bank transfers take time, we recommend making the payment immediately after receiving the invoice.

Shipping FAQs

Find Shipping Agent Here

• Q
   How long does shipping take? +
• A
  Shipping duration depends on your destination port, vessel schedule, and weather conditions. Generally, it takes 25-35 days for shipments from Japan. Contact us with your port name for an estimated shipping time.
• Q
   Can I ship auto parts with my vehicle? +
• A
  No, Japanese export regulations do not allow spare auto parts to be shipped with vehicles, except for original spare wheels and tool kits.
• Q
   Can I change the shipping destination after making a payment? +
• A
  If your vehicle has not been loaded onto a ship yet, you may request a change of destination. However, additional costs may apply depending on the shipping progress. Please contact us as soon as possible.
• Q
   What details do I need to provide for shipping? +
• A
  We require your full name, full address, telephone number, consignee & notify party details, destination port, and invoice number. Ensure all information is correct to avoid shipment delays.
• Q
   Can I update consignee or notify party details? +
• A
  Yes, but a $100 fee applies. Please contact us immediately if you need to update this information.
• Q
   Can my shipping schedule change? +
• A
  Yes, shipping schedules may change due to weather, ship routing, or other factors. We stay in contact with shipping companies to ensure the fastest possible delivery.
• Q
   How do I track my shipment? +
• A
  You can check our Shipping Schedule for updates. For precise tracking, contact the shipping company listed on your Bill of Lading.
• Q
   What documents will I receive for clearance? +
• A
  You will receive:

  • Two original Bills of Lading (BL)
  • Original export certificate
  • Original inspection certificate (if applicable)
• Q
   What should I do if my shipment arrives but I haven’t received documents? +
• A
  Your documents should arrive before your shipment. Use the tracking number provided to check their status. If you are unable to track them, please contact us immediately.
• Q
   How do I find a clearing agent? +
• A
  You can email us at ask@sawamotor.com or check with your local port authorities for recommendations.
• Q
   What happens after I receive my vehicle? +
• A
  Congratulations! We would love to hear about your experience. Feel free to share your feedback and a picture of you with your vehicle.