Q: What are the rules/regulations for importing a vehicle?

 

For export rules and procedures for your country, including pre-export inspections lists, our experienced team provides complete assistance and provide the necessary information as much as possible to make importing cars easier for our valued customer. 
It is also strongly suggested that prior to importing a vehicle, you research what is expected of you as a vehicle importer in your country and understand all risks and responsibilities.

Q: What are your office hours?

 

We are open Monday through Saturday, 24 hours 6 days a week. 
We are closed on the following days:
Sunday
New Year's Holiday (several days around New Year’s Day)
Golden Week (several days between April and May)
Summer Holiday (several days in mid-August)
Seminar Sessions (a few days throughout the year)
Please note that long holidays such as New Year's, Golden Week, and Summer Holiday will differ in length each year. Specific dates will be announced as the season approaches.

Q: What languages can you do business in?

 

Primarily English, however, our experienced sales team is also fluent in Japanese, Hindi/Urdu, Punjabi, and many more. Please call and ask for assistance. 

Q: Does the FOB price on our website include additional costs like freight charge, storage charge fees, tax and duties, etc.?

 

No, these fees are not included in our FOB pricing. The term “FOB Price,” as seen on our website, refers to the vehicle’s price and the overheads incurred upon the unit in Japan only. Freight charge should be added to the FOB price when you purchase the vehicle from us. After receiving the vehicle, you will be responsible for paying port clearing costs, import duties, taxes and any additional fees required by your country or the port of discharge. Please contact local authorities or a reputable clearing agent for further details.
Please know that our trained agents are available to assist you as clearing agents. For more information about this additional service you can contact us at info@samautomobiles.com.

Q: Can you show me the condition of the vehicle?
 

We provide detailed pictures and inspection sheets of the vehicle to help with your buying decision.

Q: How many vehicles do you have in inventory and how often are they updated?
 

Our business model is generally based on purchase orders provided by our customers, but if you would like to purchase individually, we can help you get your dream car.

Q: Can I ask you to change the vehicle’s odometer reading (mileage)?
 

No, changing the vehicle’s odometer reading is illegal. Under no circumstances do we facilitate such requests.

Q: Can I request vehicles not listed on your website?

 

Definitely! Please do not hesitate to let us know what you are looking for. We will do our best to find the vehicle that best suits your needs. We also provide access to live auctions so you can choose the vehicle of your choice.

Q: Can you install audio systems or other parts such as alloy wheels?
 

Yes, we can. Please tell us what you want us to install before requesting for the Proforma Invoice.

Q: Can I arrange a visit to see your vehicles in person?
 

Unfortunately, this is not possible as we do not allow anyone into our storage yard for security reasons. However, you are welcome to visit our office.

Q: Can I pay with a Credit Card, Western Union, PayPal or Moneygram?
 

No, we only accept payments through bank remittances. This provides both the buyer and seller with an official written record of the payment transaction.

Q: Can I buy a vehicle for use in Japan?
 

Yes, please contact us for more information.

Q: What currencies do you accept?
 

Primarily, we accept payment in U.S. dollars. However, under certain circumstances, Japanese yen is also accepted. No other currencies are acceptable.
Please note that all payments must be in the form of a bank remittance so that the buyer and seller have an official written record of the payment transaction. Under no circumstances do we accept any form of cash.

Q: Can you provide me with a receipt for my payment?
 

No, we do not provide receipts. The bank remittance provides an official written record of the payment transaction for both the buyer and seller. For your further confidence, we can send you a bank-supplied PDF copy, via e-mail, which will serve as confirmation of receipt of funds.

Q: How long does it take for my bank remittance to be transferred to your bank account?
 

Please allow a minimum of (2) business days for your bank remittance to be reflected in our bank account. While this delay may cause some inconvenience, it is the average amount of time required for interbank transactions.

Q: Are pre-export inspections required?
 

For some countries, a pre-export inspection is mandatory prior to exporting the vehicle. Please visit your country’s appropriate government authorities to obtain all required pre-export inspections lists.  
It has been reported that while many countries in the past have not enforced this regulation, they are beginning to impose large fines for violations. Please make sure that the condition of your purchase is inspection inclusive if such is mandatory by your country’s government.

Q: What is a TT Copy? Where can I get it?
 

Once you submit your payment for transfer at your bank, you will receive a Telegraphic Transfer Copy (TT Copy) as a proof of your remittance. The deposit slip may replace the TT Copy only if the TT Copy is not issued immediately by your bank.

Q: Who is responsible for paying the bank transfer fee?
 

The buyer is responsible for all bank fees. Please confirm the cost of this fee with your bank before closing the purchase agreement with us.

Q: What is the IBAN Code for your bank account?
 

There is no IBAN Code for Japanese banks. Please instruct your bank to use the Swift Code.

Q: How long will it take for the shipping vessel to reach my port?
 

We do our best to ship your vehicle so that you receive it in a timely manner. The durations given below are from the designated Japanese port to your port of discharge. Please note that they are estimates based on our past experience and are not guaranteed. 
Africa: approximately 3–5 weeks to travel from Japanese port to your port 
Middle East: approximately 2-3 weeks to travel from Japanese port to your port 
Caribbean: approximately 3–5 weeks to travel from Japanese port to your port 
Pacific Region: approximately 1 week to travel from Japanese port to your port 

Americas: approximately 4-6 weeks to travel from Japanese port to your port

Q: Is tracking information available for the shipping vessel?

 

We will provide the Tracking information for the shipment upon your request to info@samautomobiles.com

Q: What documents are customers supposed to receive from us regarding shipment?
 

You, as an importer, are supposed to receive the following documents: 
1. Bill of Lading (B/L) 
2. Insurance Document (if your purchase is CIF) 
3. Export Certificate (also called the “Deregistration Certificate” or “Cancellation of Registration” form) 
4. Commercial Invoice 

If your Customs requires, we will also send you the following: 
5. Inspection Certificate. 
6. Export Permit (also called the “Bill of Entry”)
7. Translation of Export Certificates

Q: What is the consignee?
 

The consignee is the vehicle’s “owner-to-be.” Please list the consignee’s full name as well as the “real” name shown on his/her passport or ID, full address (without any abbreviations), and phone number(s). 
It is important to understand the following when providing us with your booking information: 
Your booking will be delayed by the shipping company if the consignee’s full name and address are not provided. Complete information must be provided. 
The consignee's name cannot have any spelling mistakes. Even the smallest error can be subject to a B/L amendment, which may cost you additional fees and time.

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We pride ourselves in transparency and accountability, therefore, if you have any more questions or concerns, please reach out to info@samautomobiles.com.