How Much Does It Really Cost to Import a JDM Car to Canada? [Real-World Breakdown]

adam32281
2 days ago
2 min read

How Much Does It Really Cost to Import a JDM Car to Canada?

Thinking of Importing a JDM Car? Here's What It Actually Costs

One of the most common questions we get at JDM Rush Imports is:

“How much does it really cost to import a JDM car to Canada?”

It’s a great question — and one that’s often surrounded by confusion, misinformation, and hidden fees.

So in this post (and the video below), I’m going to walk you through the real-world cost of importing a 2009 Subaru Forester XT AWD.This was a clean, low-mileage vehicle purchased by one of our customers from a private dealer in Japan — and they’ve kindly allowed us to share the full breakdown.

📊 Real-World Import Example: 2009 Subaru Forester XT AWD

Mileage: 42,000 km
Condition Grade: 4/B (Very Clean)
Completely stock
Purchased from: Private Japanese Dealer
Vehicle Price (in Yen): ¥688,000
Exchange rate at time of purchase: 0.00972949
Converted Vehicle Price (CAD): $6,693.89

🌏 The Journey: From Japan to Canada

We like to organize import costs around the car’s actual journey. It makes the entire process easier to understand, and shows where your money goes.

🏁 Step 1: Vehicle Purchase in Japan

Vehicle Cost (CAD): $6,693.89

🚢 Step 2: Export & Shipping from Japan

Export Agent Fee: $486.47
RORO Shipping & Marine Insurance: $1,745.90
Finance/Admin Fee (Wire Transfer): $150.00

🇨🇦 Step 3: Arrival in Canada & Customs

WWS Terminal Handling Fee: $425.00
Brokerage Fee: $375.00
Excise Tax (A/C): $100.00
GST on FOB Value: $339.69
Import Duty: $0 (JDM vehicles manufactured in Japan are duty-free)

🚚 Step 4: Inland Transportation to Winnipeg

Canadian Inland Shipping: $1,751.31

🧾 Step 5: JDM Rush Services

JDM Rush Imports Fee: $1,000.00

💰 TOTAL COST (DELIVERED): $13,815.96 CAD

✅ Final Thoughts

Importing a JDM car doesn’t have to be complicated — as long as you work with a team that believes in full transparency and expert guidance. Whether you're looking for a turbocharged Forester like this one, a sporty Skyline, or a reliable Kei truck, we can help.