Customer FAQ

Top Questions from Customers

Cost

Q. Cost
A.

Q: How much does a Kei Truck usually cost in the UK?
A:
Most UK-registered Kei Trucks are typically advertised at around £10,000 or more, depending on the model, condition, and mileage.

Q: What if I import directly from MITSUI instead?
A:
Here’s a realistic example using one of our trucks:

Vehicle price (FOB Japan): £4,000

Shipping & insurance to the UK (CIF): ~£1,200

Import duty (10% of FOB): £400

VAT (20%): ~£1,120

UK costs (customs, MOT, DVLA registration, number plates): ~£500–£700

Total landed cost: around £7,200–£7,400

Q: Is that really cheaper than buying in the UK?
A:
Yes. Compared with paying £10,000+ for a UK-registered truck, importing directly usually saves £2,500–£3,000.

Q: Why is importing cheaper?
A:
Because you avoid UK dealer mark-ups.
You are buying directly from Japan, not through a reseller.

Q: What about resale value?
A:
Many customers import at around £7,300 and later sell in the UK for £9,000–£10,000, depending on condition.
This is why Kei Trucks are popular with small businesses and enthusiasts.

Q: Is this suitable for first-time importers?
A:
Yes. Most of our UK customers are first-time importers.
We explain each step clearly and can recommend trusted UK agents to handle MOT and DVLA registration.

Q: What’s the main advantage of importing from MITSUI?
A:

Lower total cost

Better-condition Japanese vehicles

Strong resale value

Clear, upfront pricing

If you’d like, I can:

Calculate an exact total cost for a specific truck

Recommend the best model for your budget

Walk you through the process step by step

Just reply and let me know.

Is this a scam?

Q. Is it safe to buy a vehicle from Japan without seeing it in person?
A.

Yes. We provide:

Detailed photos and descriptions

Clear documentation

Full export paperwork

Marine insurance under CIF shipping

We have many repeat UK customers who purchase confidently without visiting Japan.

Q. Is this a scam?
A.

No. MITSUI CO.,LTD. has sold thousands of Kei trucks, Kei vans, and other JDM vehicles to customers in North America, the UK, Europe, Canada, and more. Every single vehicle and all required documents have been delivered—100% success, zero failures. All sales, shipping, and logistics are handled carefully by our reliable Japanese staff. You can trust us.

Q. Can I trust MITSUI CO.,LTD. to handle my vehicle purchase?
A.

Absolutely! We value honesty, long-term business relationships, and customer satisfaction. Our goal is to make the import process smooth, safe, and stress-free for you.

Q. Some other companies fail to deliver vehicles or provide documents. What makes MITSUI different?
A.

Unlike unreliable exporters, MITSUI CO.,LTD. guarantees full delivery and proper documentation. We have successfully delivered vehicles to customers around the world without any issues.

Q. I see both good and bad reviews. Should I be concerned?
A.

We’re not always aware of the review sites you’re referring to, but just like on Amazon, most people don’t leave reviews even when they’re very satisfied. In fact, over 99% of our customers are happy with their vehicles. Many of them share their joy directly with us—sending photos and kind messages to their sales representative or our info team. These personal messages truly encourage our team. Let’s make this exciting project a success together.

For First-Time Buyers

Q. Is it safe to buy a vehicle from Japan without seeing it in person?
A.

Yes. We provide:

Detailed photos and descriptions

Clear documentation

Full export paperwork

Marine insurance under CIF shipping

We have many repeat UK customers who purchase confidently without visiting Japan.

Q. Can I get spare parts in the UK?
A.

Yes. Most routine servicing can be handled by UK garages.

In addition, MITSUI has its own parts department and can supply genuine or compatible parts after purchase and ship them directly to the UK when needed.

Q. How long does shipping from Japan to the UK take?
A.

From payment confirmation, typical delivery time to the UK is around 6–10 weeks.

This includes:

Pre-shipment preparation in Japan

Export documentation

Ocean transport

Arrival at a UK port

Exact timing may vary depending on the shipping schedule and destination port.

Q. Can you recommend a customs broker in the UK?
A.

Yes, of course.
If this is your first time importing a vehicle from Japan, using a professional UK customs broker is highly recommended. They will guide you through each step and make the process much simpler and less stressful.

A customs broker can assist with:

UK customs clearance

Import duty and VAT procedures

DVLA registration

MOT and compliance guidance

Communication with port authorities

Many of our UK customers, especially first-time importers, have had very positive experiences with the following trusted specialists:

My Car Import
My Car Import is one of the UK’s most experienced vehicle import specialists. They are known for being very helpful, patient, and clear in their explanations—ideal for customers importing a vehicle for the first time.

Name: My Car Import
Address: Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2PY, UK
Phone: +44 1332 810 442
Email: info@mycarimport.co.uk

Website: https://mycarimport.co.uk/

ShipMyCar
ShipMyCar is another well-established UK import and customs brokerage company. They have extensive experience handling Japanese vehicle imports and can manage the entire process from port arrival through to DVLA registration.

Name: ShipMyCar
Address: 20 Tanners Dr, Blakelands, Milton Keynes MK14 5BN, UK
Phone: +44 1908 887917
EORI: GB 876 0794 79 000
Email: info@shipmycar.co.uk

Website: https://shipmycar.co.uk/

By appointing one of these companies as the Notify Party for your shipment, they can liaise directly with the port and customs authorities on your behalf. This greatly reduces paperwork, avoids delays, and gives you peace of mind throughout the import process.

MITSUI UK will take care of the export and shipping from Japan, and your chosen UK broker will support you on the UK side. Together, this ensures a smooth and well-managed import experience—even if it is your very first time.

Q. Will I need to register the vehicle with the DVLA?
A.

Yes. All imported vehicles must be registered with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) before they can be legally driven in the UK.

To make this process smooth and stress-free, many of our UK customers appoint a professional UK customs and import agent as the Notify Party for the shipment.
This allows the agent to handle customs clearance, VAT/duty payment support, DVLA registration, and related paperwork on your behalf.

We highly recommend the following experienced UK specialists:

My Car Import
Name: My Car Import
Address: Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2PY, UK
Phone: +44 1332 810 442
Email: info@mycarimport.co.uk

Website: https://mycarimport.co.uk/

ShipMyCar
Name: ShipMyCar
Address: 20 Tanners Dr, Blakelands, Milton Keynes MK14 5BN, UK
Phone: +44 1908 887917
EORI: GB 876 0794 79 000
Email: info@shipmycar.co.uk

Website: https://shipmycar.co.uk/

By listing one of these agents as the Notify Party, the import and registration process becomes significantly smoother, especially for first-time importers.

MITSUI UK will provide all required export documents from Japan, and the appointed UK agent will take care of the UK-side procedures efficiently.

Q. Are there any hidden fees after I purchase the vehicle?
A.

No. We do not add unexpected charges after purchase.

All major costs are explained upfront.
Any optional items (such as additional inspections or accessories) are discussed only with your approval.

Transparency is one of our core principles for UK customers.

Q. What is the total cost to import a vehicle from Japan to the UK?
A.

The total cost generally consists of the vehicle price, shipping (CIF), UK import duty, VAT, and registration-related expenses.

At MITSUI UK, we clearly explain the full estimated total cost in advance, including:

Vehicle price

Ocean shipping & marine insurance (CIF)

UK import duty and VAT

Typical UK-side registration costs

There are no hidden fees. Before you proceed, you will know exactly what to expect.

Q. I’m worried because this is my first time importing a vehicle from overseas.
A.

Everyone starts as a first-time buyer—there’s no need to worry. If this is your first import, MITSUI CO.,LTD. is highly recommended. We provide careful, step-by-step support for every customer.

For Individuals and Dealers

Q. Do you have any arrangements with US car dealers, or do you only deal with the public?
A.

We work with both individual customers and car dealers. If you are a U.S. car dealer, we are happy to support your business needs. In fact, we offer a multi-unit discount for dealers purchasing multiple vehicles at once.

Whether you’re buying a single kei truck or looking to build your inventory, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

Please let us know if you’d like more details on bulk purchasing or if there’s a specific vehicle lineup you’re interested in.

Speaking by Phone

Q. I’d like to speak with someone by phone. Is that possible?
A.

We’re sorry, but our team is made up of Japanese staff who are not fluent in spoken English. However, we are very comfortable with reading and writing in English. If you already have a contact, feel free to email your representative directly. If this is your first time, please send an inquiry through our website. Our sales, shipping, or accounting team will always reply kindly and clearly by email.

CFJ (Car From Japan)

Q. I found the same vehicle listed on CFJ (Car From Japan). Is it the same as the one from MITSUI CO.,LTD.?
A.

Yes, it’s the same vehicle. We have a partnership with CFJ and also list some of our inventory on their platform. Whether you purchase through this official website or CFJ, the service quality and shipping schedule remain exactly the same.

Purchase Information

Customs broker in the UK

Q. Can you recommend a customs broker in the UK?
A.

Yes, of course.
If this is your first time importing a vehicle from Japan, using a professional UK customs broker is highly recommended. They will guide you through each step and make the process much simpler and less stressful.

A customs broker can assist with:

UK customs clearance

Import duty and VAT procedures

DVLA registration

MOT and compliance guidance

Communication with port authorities

Many of our UK customers, especially first-time importers, have had very positive experiences with the following trusted specialists:

My Car Import
My Car Import is one of the UK’s most experienced vehicle import specialists. They are known for being very helpful, patient, and clear in their explanations—ideal for customers importing a vehicle for the first time.

Name: My Car Import
Address: Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2PY, UK
Phone: +44 1332 810 442
Email: info@mycarimport.co.uk

Website: https://mycarimport.co.uk/

ShipMyCar
ShipMyCar is another well-established UK import and customs brokerage company. They have extensive experience handling Japanese vehicle imports and can manage the entire process from port arrival through to DVLA registration.

Name: ShipMyCar
Address: 20 Tanners Dr, Blakelands, Milton Keynes MK14 5BN, UK
Phone: +44 1908 887917
EORI: GB 876 0794 79 000
Email: info@shipmycar.co.uk

Website: https://shipmycar.co.uk/

By appointing one of these companies as the Notify Party for your shipment, they can liaise directly with the port and customs authorities on your behalf. This greatly reduces paperwork, avoids delays, and gives you peace of mind throughout the import process.

MITSUI UK will take care of the export and shipping from Japan, and your chosen UK broker will support you on the UK side. Together, this ensures a smooth and well-managed import experience—even if it is your very first time.

Parts

Q. Can I get spare parts in the UK?
A.

Yes. Most routine servicing can be handled by UK garages.

In addition, MITSUI has its own parts department and can supply genuine or compatible parts after purchase and ship them directly to the UK when needed.

Q. If I buy a vehicle, can you ship parts together with it?
A.

No, inner cargo cannot be shipped inside the vehicle. However, we can send parts separately by international shipping. If you need parts, simply let our staff know at any time. Smaller parts can be shipped quickly by international parcel, while larger items such as doors or windshields are sent by container to minimize costs.

Vehicle Dimensions

Q. Honda Acty Truck (HA3 / HA4)
A.

Q. Subaru Sambar Van (KV3 / KV4)
A.

Q. Suzuki Carry Truck (DD51T / DC51T)
A.

About Our Staff

Q. Will I get a reply if I send an inquiry?
A.

Yes. Our staff will carefully reply to each inquiry within 48 hours. If you are a returning customer and have a preferred sales representative, such as Ms. Ohsawa or Mr. Kazu, please feel free to request them by name. We’ll be happy to prioritize your inquiry, and your chosen representative will reply with special care.

Q. Why do your sales representatives and info team use Gmail addresses?
A.

We used to use our own company domain for info emails, but due to security concerns, we decided to switch. After careful consideration, we now use Gmail across all teams, as it offers industry-leading security backed by Google. It’s a safer and more reliable choice for everyone.

Payment Methods

Q. How can I make a payment?
A.

We accept payments by bank transfer or credit card via Stripe.

Q. Can I pay with PayPal?
A.

No, MITSUI CO.,LTD. does not accept PayPal. Please make your payment via bank transfer or by credit card through Stripe.

Q. I want to pay by bank transfer, but I don’t know MITSUI’s bank account. How should I proceed?
A.

Please click the “Inquiry” button on the vehicle page to contact us.

The message box will automatically include:
“Is this vehicle still available?”

After that, simply add:
“I’m ready to purchase. Please send me the invoice for bank transfer payment.”

Once we receive your message, your sales representative will reply with the total price and our bank account details.

Q. Can I pay 50% now and the remaining 50% after the vehicle is shipped?
A.

At MITSUI CO.,LTD., we require 100% payment before shipment. This is a strict company policy that we must follow.

About Purchasing a Vehicle

Q. Is it safe to buy a vehicle from Japan without seeing it in person?
A.

Yes. We provide:

Detailed photos and descriptions

Clear documentation

Full export paperwork

Marine insurance under CIF shipping

We have many repeat UK customers who purchase confidently without visiting Japan.

Q. How long does shipping from Japan to the UK take?
A.

From payment confirmation, typical delivery time to the UK is around 6–10 weeks.

This includes:

Pre-shipment preparation in Japan

Export documentation

Ocean transport

Arrival at a UK port

Exact timing may vary depending on the shipping schedule and destination port.

Q. Will I need to register the vehicle with the DVLA?
A.

Yes. All imported vehicles must be registered with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) before they can be legally driven in the UK.

To make this process smooth and stress-free, many of our UK customers appoint a professional UK customs and import agent as the Notify Party for the shipment.
This allows the agent to handle customs clearance, VAT/duty payment support, DVLA registration, and related paperwork on your behalf.

We highly recommend the following experienced UK specialists:

My Car Import
Name: My Car Import
Address: Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2PY, UK
Phone: +44 1332 810 442
Email: info@mycarimport.co.uk

Website: https://mycarimport.co.uk/

ShipMyCar
Name: ShipMyCar
Address: 20 Tanners Dr, Blakelands, Milton Keynes MK14 5BN, UK
Phone: +44 1908 887917
EORI: GB 876 0794 79 000
Email: info@shipmycar.co.uk

Website: https://shipmycar.co.uk/

By listing one of these agents as the Notify Party, the import and registration process becomes significantly smoother, especially for first-time importers.

MITSUI UK will provide all required export documents from Japan, and the appointed UK agent will take care of the UK-side procedures efficiently.

Q. Do imported vehicles meet UK standards and MOT requirements?
A.

Yes. Japanese domestic vehicles can be registered and driven in the UK.

Q. Can I purchase for resale purposes?
A.

Of course. Some customers first bought a kei truck for personal use, then another for family, then for friends—and after purchasing several vehicles, they eventually opened their own kei truck dealership. Those customers still buy from us regularly. Why not start a business like that yourself? From your second purchase onward, we offer multi-unit discounts.

Q. Can individuals purchase, or is it only for businesses?
A.

Individuals can purchase without any problem. In fact, many of our customers are private buyers.

Q. How do I know if I will receive all the necessary documents for the vehicle?
A.

We guarantee that all required documents will be delivered either to your address or directly to your notify party. For first-time importers, we recommend using a professional import agent to ensure a smooth process.

Q. Can I trust MITSUI CO.,LTD. to handle my vehicle purchase?
A.

Absolutely! We value honesty, long-term business relationships, and customer satisfaction. Our goal is to make the import process smooth, safe, and stress-free for you.

Q. When will the vehicle arrive?
A.

It will arrive approximately 30 to 60 days after payment is received.

About Maintenance

About Vehicle Condition

Q. Can I get spare parts in the UK?
A.

Yes. Most routine servicing can be handled by UK garages.

In addition, MITSUI has its own parts department and can supply genuine or compatible parts after purchase and ship them directly to the UK when needed.

Q. Are the vehicles reliable and in good condition?
A.

Yes. Japan has strict vehicle inspection standards, and many vehicles are well maintained with documented service history.

We carefully check:

Overall condition

Mileage consistency

Visible rust or corrosion

Detailed photos and condition information are provided before purchase.

Q. Do imported vehicles meet UK standards and MOT requirements?
A.

Yes. Japanese domestic vehicles can be registered and driven in the UK.

Q. Is a spare key included?
A.

A spare key is included. We place it in the dashboard at the time of shipping.

Q. Is everything mechanically sound? Is there anything wrong with it?
A.

A. Yes, everything is in good condition. After payment, our dedicated staff at MITSUI CO.,LTD. performs maintenance and a final test drive before delivery.

About Engine Oil

Q. Do you change the oil before delivery?
A.

Yes.

Q. What kind of oil should I use?
A.

For vehicles over 25 years old, we recommend using higher-viscosity oil. An oil rated 10W or higher is preferable.