Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need before you buy
Find answers to common questions about buying, shipping, and documentation.
General Questions
Find details about our operating hours, languages we support, and other frequently requested information here.
What languages can you do business in?
We primarily conduct business in English but can also accommodate Hindi, Spanish, and Urdu.
What are your office hours?
Our office operates Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Japan time), with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, New Year's Holiday, Golden Week, and Summer Holiday.
Can you ship auto parts inside the vehicle I am buying?
No, we cannot place anything inside the vehicle unless it is shipped by container.
Does the FOB price on your website include additional costs like freight charges, storage fees, taxes, and duties?
No, the FOB price includes only the vehicle's cost. Freight charges, port clearing costs, import duties, taxes, and other fees are the buyer's responsibility.
Is it okay to use two different email addresses, such as my work and personal email?
For security purposes, we only accept one email address.
Can you show me the condition of the vehicle?
We provide up to 30 detailed pictures of the vehicle to assist in your decision-making.
What are the rules/regulations for importing a vehicle?
Consult your country's government authorities for the rules on vehicle imports, including pre-export inspections. Refer to our FAQ section titled 'Basic Export Rules/Regulations per Country' for more details.
Vehicles & Inventory
Find answers about vehicle details, manuals, spare keys, and other questions about the cars we sell.
Do you provide the manufacturing year of your vehicles?
Yes, if available. However, since this information is from a third party, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Qualitex Trading is not liable for issues caused by this information.
Are spare keys included?
It varies. If spare keys are not found in the glove compartment, they are not included, and you will need to make copies.
Does the vehicle come with an English manual?
No, we sell used Japanese vehicles, so any included manual will be in Japanese.
Can I ask for the vehicle's odometer reading to be changed?
No, altering the odometer reading is illegal. Qualitex Trading does not engage in illegal activities.
How many vehicles do you have in stock and how often is the inventory updated?
We primarily purchase vehicles directly from auctions based on client orders, but we also maintain inventory for stock.
Can you install audio systems or other parts like alloy wheels?
Yes, please specify the additions you want before requesting the Proforma Invoice.
Can I request a vehicle not listed on your website?
Yes, please let us know what you are looking for, and our staff will try to find it for you.
Can you show the condition of the vehicle?
Yes, we provide up to 30 detailed photos of each vehicle.
Can I visit to see the vehicles in person?
No, you cannot enter our storage yard due to security reasons. However, you can visit our office by scheduling an appointment in advance.
Can you ship auto parts inside the vehicle I am buying?
No, we cannot place anything inside the vehicle unless it is shipped by container.
Buying & Paying
Learn about obtaining free price quotes, Proforma Invoices, and accepted payment methods.
Can I buy a car for use in Japan?
Yes, we export vehicles and also sell for use in Japan.
How to buy from auction?
Visit our guide at: https://www.qualitextrading.com/how-to-buy-from-auction
What is the minimum amount required to purchase a vehicle?
A deposit of $1,000 or 20% of the total vehicle cost (whichever is greater) is required before an order is confirmed.
How much does it cost to buy from a Japanese auto auction?
The cost varies depending on the vehicle, auction, and your country's import regulations. Please contact us for a detailed quote.
Can you use photos or a vehicle inspection report to find vehicles?
Yes, our sales representatives can assist in finding vehicles using pictures and/or inspection reports.
Are pre-export inspections required?
Some countries require a pre-export inspection. Check with your country's authorities for the necessary inspection list.
How long does it take for my payment to reach your account?
Please allow at least three business days for your payment to reflect in our account.
What is a TT Copy and how do I get it?
After making a payment at your bank, you receive a Telegraphic Transfer Copy (TT Copy). If not issued immediately, the deposit slip serves as a substitute.
Who pays the bank transfer fee?
You are responsible for all bank fees. Confirm the fee with your bank before finalizing the purchase.
What is the IBAN Code for your bank account?
Japanese banks do not have an IBAN Code. Please use the Swift Code instead.
Booking & Shipping
Find information about CAP (Car-Arrival-Progress), reserving a shipping vessel, and monitoring your vehicle's shipment status.
How long does it take for the shipping vessel to reach my port?
Estimated times are: - Africa: 3 - 5 weeks - Georgia: 6 weeks - Caribbean: 5 - 7 weeks - Pacific Region: 1 - 2 weeks - South America: 5 - 6 weeks
What information is needed to book a shipping vessel for my vehicle?
To book a vessel, we need: - Port of Discharge - Vehicle Destination - Consignee's full name, address, and phone number - Notify Party details (if different from the Consignee) - DHL Delivery Address for document dispatch
Can I see if my vehicle passed its inspection?
Yes, a PDF of the inspection certificate will be emailed once available.
Why are there so many changes and delays to the shipping schedule?
These changes are made by the shipping companies, not Qualitex Trading.
Documentation
Discover information regarding importation documents, customer information requirements, and document tracking.
What documents will I receive from Qualitex Trading for my shipment?
As an importer, you will receive: - Bill of Lading (B/L) - Insurance Document (if applicable) - Export Certificate - Commercial Invoice - Inspection Certificate (if required) - Export Permit (if required)
What happens if my vehicle is shipped without a required pre-export inspection (e.g., QISJ / EAA / JEVIC)?
In destination countries where pre-shipment inspection is mandatory (such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, or Zambia), arriving without a valid inspection certificate often results in heavy customs penalties (typically 15% or more of the CIF value), destination inspection surcharges, or prolonged port clearance delays. Qualitex Trading can arrange all necessary pre-export inspections before shipment—please inform your sales representative when placing your order.
Why do I need to provide the full name and address of the consignee?
Shipping companies need complete information for the B/L. Any mistakes can lead to delays and extra costs.
What is a consignee?
The consignee is the person who will own the vehicle. Provide the consignee's full name, complete address, and phone number.
What is the Notify Party?
The individual or entity the shipping agent contacts to confirm the vessel's arrival date.
What is the DHL Delivery Address?
The address provided for dispatching shipping documents via DHL courier.
Can I verify the information on the B/L before you send it?
Yes, a PDF of your B/L and other documents will be emailed for verification.
My country's customs office is asking for a packing list. Can you provide one?
Our Commercial Invoice contains all necessary information, which should suffice.
Can I request changes to vehicle information on the B/L or other documents?
No, altering information on the B/L or other documents is illegal.
Can I track the documents you send me?
Yes, the DHL tracking number will be emailed once your documents are dispatched.
My DHL tracking log isn't showing my documents are being shipped. Is there an issue?
Please wait 24 business hours before reporting any problems. The tracking log updates once the package is picked up and scanned.
Receiving Your Cargo
Find out about your vehicle's estimated time of arrival, locating a clearing agent, and our home delivery service.
Requesting Copies of B/L
Shipping companies issue only one set of the B/L per cargo, and additional copies cannot be provided.
Finding Your Cargo's Arrival Date
The shipping agent will contact the Notify Party listed on the B/L, or you can contact the agent directly about one week before the ETA.
Customs Clearance Using B/L
You can complete 60% of the customs clearance procedure with PDF copies of the B/L. The remaining 40% requires the original B/L.
Glossary Of Terms
Find definitions for terms used in our FAQs and during your research.
Bill of Entry (BOE)
A legal document submitted by importers or customs brokers to the customs department as a declaration of goods imported into a country. It includes details such as the description of goods, their value, quantity, origin, etc.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
A legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper that details the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried. It serves as a receipt of shipment when goods are delivered to the carrier.
C&F (Cost and Freight)
An Incoterm where the seller pays for the cost of goods and freight to bring the goods to the port of destination. The buyer bears the risk and cost of insurance and any additional charges from the port of destination onwards.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
An Incoterm where the seller pays for the cost of goods, freight, and insurance to bring the goods to the port of destination. The buyer bears any charges and risks after the goods are delivered to the port of destination.
Clearing Agent
A person or company authorized to handle customs clearance procedures on behalf of an importer or exporter. They facilitate the processing of customs declarations, duties, and taxes.
Commercial Invoice
A document issued by the seller to the buyer, providing details of the goods sold, such as quantity, price, and terms of sale. It is used for customs declaration and as a proof of sale for international trade.
Consignee
The entity (person or company) to whom the shipment of goods is addressed and delivered. They are usually the buyer or the receiver of the goods.
Export Certificate
A document issued by relevant authorities certifying that goods being exported comply with specific quality, safety, or regulatory standards of the importing country.
FOB (Free On Board)
An Incoterm where the seller is responsible for delivering the goods on board the vessel nominated by the buyer at the port of shipment. The buyer bears all costs and risks once the goods are on board.
Notify Party
The person or company named in shipping documents who is to be informed by the carrier or agent when the goods arrive at their destination.
Still have a question?
Our export specialists are happy to help with anything not covered here.