Shipping & Logistics
Driven by Experience, Delivered with Care
Kansai Group’s Shipping and Logistics services are tailored to meet the needs of customers of all sizes, ensuring that importing high‑quality used cars from Japan is effortless. Kansai Group Corporation, Japan, guarantees a smooth and transparent process from start to finish, giving clients complete confidence in every step of their vehicle import journey.
At Kansai Group, we leverage our extensive network and deep expertise in shipping and logistics to deliver a seamless and efficient vehicle transportation experience. Our services ensure that customers worldwide receive their vehicles promptly and in pristine condition. With over 20 years of proven industry experience, we have perfected our processes, making Kansai Group a trusted and recognized name in Japanese vehicle exports.
Effortless Imports, Worldwide Reach
20+ Years Experience
Proven processes refined over two decades of Japanese vehicle exports.
Global Network
Strong ties with leading shipping lines for priority space to major ports.
Pristine Delivery
Vehicles arrive promptly and in excellent condition at destination ports.
Shipping Options
Two ways to ship your vehicle
We provide our clients with two primary shipping choices: Roll‑On/Roll‑Off (Ro‑Ro) or Container Shipping.
Roll‑On/Roll‑Off (Ro‑Ro)
Ideal for single-vehicle deliveries
For single‑vehicle deliveries, the most commonly preferred method is Ro‑Ro shipping. In this system, vessels are specially designed to carry wheeled vehicles such as cars, trucks, semi‑trucks, and locomotives, which are driven on and off the ship using their own power.
This approach is highly convenient as it eliminates the need for additional machinery like cranes. It is also the best option for customers working with a tight budget and schedule, since Ro‑Ro shipping is generally faster, more straightforward, and less expensive than container shipping.
Another advantage is that larger vehicles do not need to be dismantled before shipment, and upon arrival, your vehicle is ready‑to‑drive directly from the port of delivery — saving both time and money. For destinations with underdeveloped port facilities, Ro‑Ro is often the most practical solution.
- No cranes or extra machinery required
- Faster and typically more affordable than containers
- Larger vehicles ship without dismantling
- Ready-to-drive on arrival at the delivery port
- Ro‑Ro ships may not be available for all destination ports.
- Unlike container shipment, Ro‑Ro sailings are less frequent — often only one or two ships per port, with schedules that may or may not align with yours.
Container Shipping
Ideal for bulk and high-value imports
For clients importing vehicles in bulk, container shipment is an excellent option. Cars are loaded into truck‑sized containers, typically 20‑foot or 40‑foot units. A 20‑foot container usually accommodates one car, while a 40‑foot container can hold up to six, depending on vehicle size.
The 40‑foot container is the most economical choice for customers importing multiple vehicles. For luxury or classic cars, we strongly recommend shipping in separate containers to ensure maximum protection. Individual importers can also reduce costs by sharing container space, making this method flexible and cost‑efficient.
- 20ft typically holds one car; 40ft up to six
- Most economical for multiple vehicles
- Separate containers recommended for luxury or classic cars
- Shared container space available for individual importers
- Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) depends on containers being fully loaded before dispatch.
- Pricing varies by container size and monthly shipping rates, which are linked to global fuel prices and reviewed approximately every three months.
Ro‑Ro Limitations
Challenges of Ro‑Ro Shipping
While Roll‑On/Roll‑Off (Ro‑Ro) is convenient, there are some limitations to consider:
Limited Port Access
Not all countries support Ro‑Ro shipping, particularly those without seaport facilities. In such cases, our customer support team will guide you on alternative solutions.
Risk of Damage
Although Ro‑Ro is generally safe, there is a potential risk of accidents or minor damage during the loading and unloading process.
Security Concerns
Vehicles shipped via Ro‑Ro are typically left unlocked for shipyard staff access, which may expose them to risks such as theft or vandalism while unattended.
Insurance Restrictions
Imports shipped through Ro‑Ro are usually covered only for total loss, as it is difficult to assess or document minor damages prior to shipment.
Unsuitability for Classic Vehicles
Collector’s items or classic cars are more vulnerable to damage due to their delicate nature, making Ro‑Ro less ideal for such shipments.
Vehicle Condition Requirements
Vehicles must be in operable condition to be shipped via Ro‑Ro, and they cannot contain personal belongings or spare parts during transit.
Container Advantages
Benefits of Container Shipping
Container shipping offers stronger protection, broader reach, and more flexibility for many importers.
No Operability Requirement
Unlike the Ro‑Ro option, vehicles do not need to be in running condition to be transported in a container.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
Since vehicles are inspected before loading, they can be insured for damages that may occur either before or after shipment — offering greater protection than Ro‑Ro.
Global Port Accessibility
Container shipping allows vehicles from Japan to be delivered to virtually any port worldwide, including those that do not support Ro‑Ro services.
Inland Delivery Options
Containers can be transported by road or rail, making it possible to deliver vehicles to land‑locked countries without direct seaport access.
Enhanced Security and Protection
Containers are sealed and secured, reducing the risk of damage. Upon arrival, they remain sealed during storage and are handled only within the port, ensuring safety until collection.
Additional Cargo Flexibility
Spare parts and personal effects can be sealed inside the container along with the vehicle, eliminating the need for separate shipments.
Ship with Confidence!
Get fast, secure, and hassle-free vehicle transport with Kansai Group.
Contact Our Logistics Team