FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
At Kinomi, we provide a seamless and risk-free vehicle import experience. Our services cover the entire process, from sourcing and inspecting vehicles to legalizing and delivering them to clients. We remove the uncertainties and complications often associated with importing, ensuring a smooth experience. Our team in Japan carefully selects and verifies vehicles before purchase, while our U.S. team handles customs clearance, EPA and DOT compliance, and state-specific requirements. We also offer post-import support, including registration assistance and parts sourcing, to ensure our clients are fully supported even after their vehicle arrives.
Any vehicle can be legally imported as long as it complies with U.S. federal regulations. The most common guideline we follow is the “25-Year Import Law”, which allows vehicles that are at least 25 years old from their exact manufacturing date to be imported with minimal restrictions. For newer vehicles, special exemptions such as "Show or Display," off-road use, or race car classifications may apply. If you are interested in importing a specific model that does not yet meet the 25-year rule, we can help determine whether it qualifies under alternative import regulations.
At Kinomi, we do not believe in rigid corporate policies and instead prioritize flexibility and transparency. Every client has different needs, and we tailor our process accordingly. The first step is vehicle sourcing, where we search for the requested vehicle through Japanese auctions, dealerships, private listings, or direct negotiations with owners who may not have originally planned to sell. Once a vehicle is identified, our team in Japan conducts a full inspection to ensure quality and compliance. After purchase, we handle all export paperwork, deregistration, and approvals required for shipping. Once the vehicle arrives in the U.S., we take care of customs clearance and, if needed, assist with state-specific registration requirements. Finally, we offer nationwide shipping and post-import support to help with any additional needs, such as sourcing replacement parts or securing proper documentation.
Kinomi stands out because we remove the risks associated with importing by offering a fully managed, end-to-end service. Unlike brokers who rely on third parties, we have a dedicated team in Japan that directly sources and inspects vehicles, ensuring authenticity and quality. Our process is customized for each client rather than following a one-size-fits-all structure. Additionally, our support extends beyond the import process, as we continue to assist clients with parts, modifications, and resale options long after their vehicle arrives.
Before export, Kei trucks should go through a thorough maintenance check to ensure they arrive in optimal condition. This includes inspecting and replacing fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid to prevent any issues during transport. Brake pads, rotors, and suspension components should be checked and replaced if necessary, while tires should be evaluated and swapped out for new or lightly used ones if they show signs of excessive wear. Since many Kei trucks are used in rural or coastal environments, we also recommend applying rust prevention treatments, such as undercoating, to protect against corrosion before they leave Japan. At Kinomi, we also regularly replace the Timing Belt free of charge.
At Kinomi, we offer a wide range of customization options to tailor your imported vehicle to your needs. We work with professional mechanics, including JR Kustom Garage CEO, Junio-san, who has extensive experience modifying and enhancing vehicles in Japan before they are shipped. Whether you need a lift kit, off-road modifications, performance tuning, or aesthetic customizations, our team can handle it. From upgrading suspension systems and installing larger tires to repainting, interior refurbishments, and engine tuning, Junio-san and his team can work on virtually anything to ensure your vehicle arrives in the U.S. exactly how you envision it.
At Kinomi, every purchase is technically part of a payment plan, as we do not require the full amount upfront. Instead, we structure the payment process around the client’s needs and the current phase of the import process. For example, if we find a vehicle for a client in Japan, they can first purchase the vehicle to secure it and reserve it. At that stage, we only require the initial freight costs to guarantee export. The remaining balance is only required after export and before the vehicle arrives in the U.S. This system allows for a flexible and structured payment process, ensuring that importing with Kinomi is as smooth and accommodating as possible.
Yes, if you have found a vehicle for sale in Japan and want Kinomi to handle the import process, we can assist. After you send us the listing, we will verify the legitimacy of the seller and conduct an inspection if necessary. Once we confirm that the vehicle meets U.S. import requirements, we will negotiate the purchase, handle all paperwork, and arrange for shipping and importation to the U.S.
That being said, this approach slightly contradicts Kinomi’s core mission. Many public export websites charge a 20-40% markup on vehicle prices, whereas Kinomi was founded on the belief that we could offer premium import services at a lower cost by sourcing vehicles directly from auctions, private sellers, and dealerships. However, if you prefer that we purchase a listing you have found, we are happy to accommodate your request and handle the import process for you.
Clients who work with Kinomi gain priority access to Japan’s largest vehicle auctions and exclusive off-market deals that are not publicly listed. We believe in complete transparency, ensuring there are no hidden fees throughout the import process. Our expert team provides guidance and support at every stage, simplifying what can otherwise be a complicated experience.
Additionally, Kinomi supports clients even after the import process by assisting with parts sourcing, maintenance recommendations, and modifications. Unlike many other importers, Kinomi Import Clients receive free sourcing for replacement parts. We do not charge a service fee for parts and instead provide receipts along with a cost-to-cost import process, ensuring that you receive parts at fair and direct pricing without unnecessary markups.
Yes! We have logistics partners that provide us with nationwide shipping solutions.
While vehicles that meet the 25-year import rule are federally legal, individual state regulations may vary. Some states, such as California, have additional emissions requirements, such as CARB compliance, which can make registration more complex. We advise clients on state-specific regulations before purchasing to ensure there are no unexpected issues when registering the import.
Kinomi offers several discounts to make importing affordable. Clients who import multiple vehicles at once can take advantage of bulk import discounts. We also have a referral program that rewards customers who introduce new clients to our services. Returning customers can access exclusive deals for future purchases.
If you have previously imported a vehicle from Kinomi, we will source and import replacement parts for you free of charge. This exclusive service is only available to Kinomi Clients, ensuring that you receive ongoing support long after your vehicle has arrived. All receipts and invoices for the parts will be sent directly to you, and we will not charge a service fee for sourcing or handling the import process. Our goal is to make maintenance and repairs as seamless and cost-effective as possible for our clients.
This is a rare situation, as we are Transparent about EVERYTHING. We will show you the smallest of dents and scratches. That being said, if a major discrepancy is discovered Kinomi will be there for you. We will try to our best to work a reasonable solution out.
The Kinomi Guarantee is our commitment to a risk-free and transparent import experience. Every vehicle we import undergoes strict inspections to ensure quality and authenticity. We handle all legal compliance, including U.S. Customs, EPA, and DOT requirements, so our clients never have to worry about legality issues. Our pricing is fully transparent, with no hidden fees or unexpected costs. Most importantly, our support does not end once the vehicle is delivered, we continue to assist our clients with registration, maintenance, and any additional needs that may arise.