Best Japanese Ports for Car Exports

Japan is one of the world’s largest exporters of used cars, shipping thousands of vehicles every week to Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Behind this massive trade are a few key Japanese ports that handle most of the automobile exports.

If you’re planning to import a used car from Japan through ZAM Trading Japan, it’s important to understand which ports are used and why they matter.
Let’s explore the top 3 Japanese ports famous for car exports — Yokohama, Nagoya, and Kobe.

1. Yokohama Port – Japan’s Largest Vehicle Export Hub

Location: Near Tokyo, in Kanagawa Prefecture
Known For: High volume, speed, and modern logistics

Yokohama Port is Japan’s most active port for used car exports, handling a major share of all vehicles leaving the country. It offers:

• Modern loading terminals specifically for automobiles (Roll-on/Roll-off ships)
• Quick customs clearance
• Access to Tokyo and surrounding auction houses

For buyers, Yokohama means faster shipping times and shorter inland transport costs — especially when you purchase cars from Tokyo-based auctions.

✅ Fun Fact: Most exporters, including ZAM Trading Japan, prefer Yokohama for its efficiency and worldwide shipping routes.

2. Nagoya Port – Heart of Japan’s Automotive Industry

Location: Aichi Prefecture (home of Toyota)
Known For: Exporting brand-new and used Toyota vehicles

Nagoya Port plays a huge role in Japan’s automotive exports because it’s located near Toyota City, the headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation.
This port is ideal for:

• Exporting Toyota, Lexus, and Daihatsu models
• Handling both used and new vehicles
• Offering smooth operations and high capacity

Buyers who prefer Toyota vehicles often get faster processing and lower domestic transport costs when cars are shipped from Nagoya.

✅ Tip: If you’re buying a Toyota from ZAM Trading Japan, ask to ship from Nagoya Port for the most cost-effective logistics.

3. Kobe Port – Gateway to Western Japan

Location: Hyogo Prefecture, near Osaka
Known For: Handling exports to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East

Kobe Port is Japan’s oldest international port, and it remains a key center for used car shipments.
It’s particularly convenient for vehicles purchased from Kyushu, Osaka, or Kobe auctions.

The port offers:

• Efficient vehicle handling terminals
• Experienced export service providers
• Competitive shipping routes to Africa and Southeast Asia

✅ Popular Routes: Kobe Port frequently ships cars to Tanzania, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Why These Ports Matter to Importers

Choosing the right port can affect:
🚗 Total shipping cost
🚢 Transit time
📜 Customs processing speed

At ZAM Trading Japan, we select the best port based on your vehicle’s auction location and your country’s destination port — ensuring the fastest and safest delivery.

Popular Destination Ports Worldwide

Conclusion

Japan’s ports — Yokohama, Nagoya, and Kobe — are the backbone of the used car export industry.
Each port has its own advantages, depending on the vehicle type, brand, and destination.

With ZAM Trading Japan, you can rest assured that your car will be shipped through the most reliable and efficient Japanese port, ensuring safe, fast, and cost-effective delivery to your country.