Buying advice · 24 September 2026
Irish Import Agent, Japanese Exporter or Irish Dealer? How to Choose (2026)
In short: A dealer is fastest but most expensive. A Japanese exporter is cheap, but usually stops at the Irish port and leaves customs, VRT, the NCT and registration to you. An Irish import agent costs a fee but handles everything to Irish plates, under Irish consumer law.
The three routes
| Irish dealer (stock import) | Japanese exporter | Irish import agent | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choice of exact car | Only what is in stock | Wide (auction and stock) | Wide: we search the auctions for you |
| Price | Highest (dealer margin) | Low car price | Auction price plus one agreed fee |
| Customs, VAT, VRT | Done | Usually you, or your broker | Done for you |
| NCT and registration | Done | Usually you | Done for you |
| Who you deal with | Irish business | A company in Japan, often by email | Irish business |
| Consumer protection | Irish law | Japanese terms of trade | Irish law and a written agreement |
Questions to ask any supplier
- Where does your service end: at the port, or on Irish plates?
- How will Japanese origin be documented for 0% duty? (It must be a statement on origin or importer's knowledge; a chamber certificate is not accepted.)
- Will I see the translated auction sheet before any bid?
- Is the fee fixed and agreed in writing before bidding?
- Who handles VRT, the NCT and E-mark tyres if needed?
- Where is the company registered, and which country's law applies?
We are an Irish company, and our written terms set out every stage. See how it works.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to buy direct from a Japanese exporter?
The car price can be low, but you usually handle customs, VRT, the NCT and registration yourself. Compare the total cost to Irish plates, not just the car price.
What does an Irish import agent do?
Searches the auctions, translates the sheet, bids to your limit, ships the car, clears customs, pays VRT and registers it on Irish plates.