Akiko Heidenreich
Co-Owner
Showgun Imports,
Kei Truck Buyers Guide
Shogun Imports, Your journey starts here
Shogun Imports plays a crucial role acting as intermediary between individual customers and Japanese automotive vendors, shipping, exporting, importing, customs authority & vehicle registration documentation.
[ what we offer ]
The Whole Process
2 # JP Road Certification & Inspections
Our listings are JP road certified, with strict government inspections done every two years. Many listings also offer short-term guarantees. If the Kei truck is in the Tokyo metro area, a pre-sale inspection with a full report and more photos is available for a fee.
USA Street Legal Regastration, For Trucks Newer Than 25 YO
If you do not reside in Montana or South Dakota, our legal team can assist you in registering your Kei truck as a street-legal UTV with out-of-state plates for a fee of $700. This registration process is valid in 45 states and can be completed by mail, without requiring you to be a resident of the state where you are registering.
[ what we offer ]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase a vehicle entirely online?
We are dedicated to providing you with a seamless and convenient online vehicle buying experience tailored specifically to your needs. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible, from browsing our extensive inventory to finalizing your purchase—all from the comfort of your own home. With user-friendly tools, expert guidance, and comprehensive resources, we ensure that every step is efficient and hassle-free, so you can focus on finding the perfect vehicle for you.
Is there any extra charges that are not listed?
The listed price is all-inclusive, covering the purchase of your chosen vehicle, all import and export taxes and tariffs—no matter any legal changes that may occur during the process—as well as all required exporting, importing, and customs paperwork. Additionally, it includeds all shipping costs within Japan, sea transportation, and a quoted delivery cost right to your door from the nearest port, which remains optional.
For Kei trucks newer than 25 years in the USA, there is an optional $700 registration fee. We believe in transparency and have clearly outlined all fees and charges. However, it's essential to note that if there are any tardiness or negligence on your part during the sign-off for delivery or pickup from the port, we cannot guarantee that auto transport companies or ports won’t apply extra charges that you would be responsible for. Your timely cooperation is key to a smooth delivery experience!
Can I pick up my Kei truck at the port to avoid delivery charges?
Absolutely! Here are some great options! Renting a tow dolly from companies like U-Haul is one convenient choice; it's perfect for towing with a vehicle that can tow a recommended minimum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. If you're considering a trailer for a single Kei truck, aim for minimum dimensions of 12 ft x 5.5 ft for a snug fit of a single Kei truck, preferably wider than 5.5 ft ideal for added stability, and a recommended minimum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. You’re well on your way to a successful towing experience!
Kei Trucks,
- Weight: 1,500 to 1,800 pounds
- Length: 134 in (3.4 m)
- Width: 58 in (1.48 m)
- Height: 79 in (2.0 m)
Where can I get parts, and will auto mechanics work on them?
If you're looking for vehicle parts, there are plenty of English websites to explore! Exciting news: Shogun Imports will be launching our own parts shop in early 2025, featuring an extensive selection and the option for special orders to meet your needs.
Kei trucks stand out for their user-friendly design with accessible engines and components. Their compact, lightweight build and spacious engine bays make repairs much easier compared to typical vehicles. For instance, models like the Subaru Sambar, which we feature in our Subaru Review, are designed for straightforward access to replacement parts.
In summary, these vehicles are a breeze to repair! Any auto mechanic unsure about working on them might want to rethink their skills.
What's the payload for the bed and towing?
Kei trucks are impressive vehicles with a payload capacity of 770 lbs (350 kg).
While towing capacities aren't specified by manufacturers, research shows that mid to late-90s Kei trucks with 45 to 48 horsepower can tow up to 800 pounds including the trailer, and may reach speeds of up to 60+ mph. In urban areas with low speeds, they can handle towing up to 1,000 pounds. Newer models with 50 to 60+ horsepower may tow even more. Though not specifically designed for towing, if towing regally 800 pounds or more at speeds over 45 mph using a trailer with brakes and wider tires can enhance stability and safety.
Is there a warranty for the vehicles you sell?
We’re excited to offer a range of Kei vehicles, most equipped with a short-term warranty! Just a quick note: this warranty is valid only while the vehicle is in Japan. Rest assured, our listings are JP road certified, with the government thoroughly inspecting these vehicles every two years they are on the road, ensuring top-notch quality!
Are your used vehicles inspected and certified?
Certainly! All of our listings are JP-certified for road use, ensuring top-notch quality and safety. Japan is known for having some of the world's most rigorous mechanical inspections, conducted every two years for these vehicles. To give you even more peace of mind, many of our listings in the Tokyo area offer an optional inspection for a fee, complete with a detailed report and extra photos. Don't miss out on an opportunity to drive with confidence!
Are the vehicles insured during shipment?
Every vehicle we offer comes with comprehensive insurance coverage specifically for delivery purposes. This ensures that your purchase is protected throughout the transit process, giving you peace of mind as your new vehicle makes its way to you.
Do you offer financing options?
We offer financing options through two trusted lenders that are available for imported vehicles. Keep in mind that the Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) may be on par with those of a personal bank loan from your local bank, as rates for imported vehicles are higher than those for conventional cars and are similar to personal loans. Securing the right loan for you can make your dream vehicle more attainable than ever!
What is your refund or return policy?
Once you sign the contract and complete the full payment, we’ll hold your payment until we have the vehicle in our possession for shipment. In the rare event that your paid vehicle is sold before Shogun Imports takes possession—thanks to the time difference between Japan and U.S. Central Time—we’ll ensure a full refund is processed, typically by 8 PM U.S. Central Time. Once we have possession of your chosen vehicle, the sale is final, and refunds or returns won’t be available.
Do you offer home delivery?
Rest assured, all transportation costs to your door are included in the price. We utilize the safest and most reliable method of overseas auto transport—RORO ships—fully insured for your peace of mind throughout the entire journey.
Are these Kei vehicles street-legal In my area?
Our Kei vehicle listings are welcomed across all the countries we serve! In the USA, you can register Kei trucks as street-legal UTVs in an impressive 45 states. Additionally, 30 states permit registration as vehicles, with a few outlining specific speed and emission standards for public use. At the same time, a handful of states are limited to off-road adventures.
Can you register Kei trucks as UTVs?
Understanding local registration requirements is crucial if you're considering a Kei truck as a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle). The definition of what constitutes a UTV varies among local governments, but most have clear standards regarding dimensions, engine size, and weight—criteria that Kei trucks typically meet. While it is rare, some local laws may prevent Kei trucks from being registered as UTVs if Kei trucks are explicitly mentioned in laws prohibiting their registration.
In the USA, the good news is that you can register Kei trucks as street-legal UTVs in 45 states with out-of-state registration, and many states offer their own UTV registration options. If you're eager to take your Kei truck off-road and explore nearby trails. Don't miss out on adventure—consider the versatile Kei truck for your off-road needs!
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Buy In Bulk
We exclusively use roll-on-roll-off (RORO) ships to ensure safe travel and to avoid the risks associated with cargo ships and containers. If you purchase more than one vehicle from us within a week, we will reduce our service fees and may offer lower delivery costs from your nearest major port.
