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  • adam32281
  • Aug 22
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 4





So, you’ve done it. 🎉 You sealed the deal, locked in your dream ride from Japan, and now you’re counting down the days until it rolls into your driveway. First off — congrats! Not everyone takes the leap into the world of JDM imports, and trust me, it’s worth it.


But what happens between buying your car in Japan and actually getting it to your driveway Canada? That’s what this guide (and our video above 👆) is all about. Let’s walk through the journey together so you know exactly what to expect and how to be ready when your JDM finally lands.



Step 1: Purchase & Shipping ✈️🚢


Once you’ve bought your JDM, the waiting game begins. Your car hangs out at port in Japan until it’s assigned to a RORO ship (Roll-On, Roll-Off). On average, this takes around 3 weeks.


After that, the ocean voyage is typically 1.5–2 weeks. We’ll give you the vessel name, and you can track its every move on MarineTraffic.com — fair warning, it’s a little addictive.



Step 2: Your JDM Car Landing in Canada 🇨🇦

When your car touches Canadian soil, we take care of the boring-but-essential stuff:


  • Customs clearance 🧾

  • Critical paperwork 🧩

  • Transport coordination 🚛


You’ll also receive your JDM Rush Arrival Package — a couriered set of documents that includes your Bill of Lading, Export Certificate, Customs clearance papers, and Bill of Sale. One big warning: don’t lose these documents. They’re crucial for your provincial registration and obtaining insurance for your JDM car in Canada.



Step 3: Get Ready Locally 🔧📑

While your car is making its journey, you can start prepping at home:


  • Book a Provincial Safety InspectionNot every shop is qualified for JDMs. Look for performance or specialty shops with experience in:

    • Right-hand-drive safety inspections

    • Daytime Running Light (DRL) conversions

    • Sourcing JDM-specific parts


  • Line up your Insurance & RegistrationS Some provinces split them into separate processes, so plan ahead. JDM-friendly insurers make life easier (we’ve got a growing list on our blog).

  • Check if You’ll Need an Appraisal Some insurers require it, especially for rarer models. It’s smart to ask upfront so you don’t hit delays.

👉 To help, we’re building a list of trusted shops and insurance providers across Canada in our JDM Insights Blog.


Step 4: Delivery & Arrival Day 🚛🏡


After customs, our transport partners pick up your car. Delivery takes about 1–2 weeks, depending on where you live. Make sure you’ve arranged a drop-off spot that’s accessible — car carriers can’t always get into tight residential streets.

  • Temporary Insurance (Transport Tag/Plate): Line this up 2–3 days before arrival if you plan to drive it to your shop.

  • Pro Tip: Skip the temp plate and have it delivered straight to your shop for inspection — just call ahead to confirm they’re cool with receiving it.

Finally — Arrival Day! Here’s your quick checklist:


✅ Government-issued ID

✅ Screwdriver + license plate screws

✅ Temporary plate or insurance docs

✅ A small jerry can of gas (they arrive empty!)

✅ Camera/phone to capture the big moment


Don’t panic if the car looks a little dusty — open carriers pick up road dirt. A quick wash and she’ll sparkle.

Wrapping It Up 🚗💨

That’s it! You’re ready for your JDM’s arrival and road prep. At JDM Rush Imports, we’ve guided countless Canadians through this exact process, and our goal is to make it as smooth and fun as possible.

If you found this guide helpful:

Your JDM is on its way — and trust me, the wait is worth it.

 
 
 

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