HS 8708Vehicles · Japan

Auto Parts - Brakes & Clutches - HS 8708 classification, duty and landed cost - Import into Japan

Duty and tax snapshot for importing vehicles (HS 8708) into Japan. Typical MFN duty ~10%, JCT 10% on CIF + duty. Decision-support only - confirm the 10-digit line and preferential status with your broker.

Typical duty

10%

JCT

10%

Total taxes / CIF

21.0%

Worked landed-cost example

USD 100,000 FOB parcel of vehicles (HS 8708) shipped to Japan.

FOB valueUSD 100,000

Origin chargesUSD 1,500

FreightUSD 8,000

InsuranceUSD 500

CIFUSD 110,000

Import duty @ 10%USD 11,000

JCT @ 10%USD 12,100

Destination inlandUSD 2,000

Landed cost ≈ USD 135,100

Run your own numbers in the Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

Sample HS codes

Code	Description
8708.30	Brakes, servo-brakes and parts, motor vehicles

Japan duty regime

MFN tariffs on a mix of ad valorem and specific rates. Preferential rates under CPTPP, RCEP, Japan-EU EPA, Japan-US Trade Agreement, Japan-UK CEPA and ASEAN JAEPA.

Customs notes

· Japan uses a 9-digit Statistical Code (HS 6 + 3 national digits) administered by Customs and METI.
· NACCS is the electronic customs declaration system used at all ports and airports.
· AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status gives fast-track clearance and deferred duty payment.
· Consumption tax base = CIF + customs duty. Registered importers can reclaim JCT as input tax.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical import duty on vehicles (HS 8708) into Japan?

Japan applies an MFN duty of about 10% on HS chapter 8708 at the 6-digit line. National tariff schedules add 2–4 further digits, so the exact rate can shift once you confirm the 8- or 10-digit code. Preferential rates under FTAs (MFN tariffs on a mix of ad valorem and specific rates) may reduce this to 0% for qualifying origins.

How is JCT calculated on imports of vehicles in Japan?

Japan charges JCT at 10% on the CIF value plus duty. Consumption tax on CIF + duty

What is the landed cost of a USD 100,000 FOB shipment of vehicles into Japan?

On a USD 100,000 FOB parcel with ~8% freight and 0.5% insurance, CIF works out to USD 110,000. Applying 10% duty and 10% JCT brings total taxes to about USD 23,100 (~21.0% of CIF). Landed at buyer's warehouse ≈ USD 135,100.

Which HS code should I use for vehicles in Japan?

Start with the 6-digit international HS heading - for example 8708.30 (Brakes, servo-brakes and parts, motor vehicles). Japan customs then requires the full national code (8- to 10-digit national tariff line). Confirm the exact line with your licensed customs broker before filing.

Which Incoterm is best for shipping vehicles to Japan?

Most importers into Japan prefer CIF or CFR for sea freight so the seller arranges main-carriage transport, while retaining control of destination clearance. DDP shifts import duty and JCT to the seller - attractive to buyers but often priced with a risk premium. Compare all 11 Incoterms with our Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

What documents does Japan customs need to clear HS 8708?

Japan uses a 9-digit Statistical Code (HS 6 + 3 national digits) administered by Customs and METI. Regulated commodities may also require a health certificate, phytosanitary certificate or import licence depending on the exact HS line.