Coaster.. To import or Not import..

Beth54 · Guru

RE: Coaster.. To import or Not import..

oldbobsbus · Guru

Thanks Juergen. I'm not after a coaster, just a smaller van. I'm tossing around whether to buy a used campervan will low kms, and all set up, or buy a near new vehicle and get the fitout the way I want it done. The attraction for me with the imports was the low kms for the price.

Hi Beth,

My old fella advice is that unless you are willing to jump through all the hoops involved with Imports and the ongoing maintenance problems maybe you should be looking at a good secondhand locally built unit so you are able to access services when and if required... smile

That is if you want to spend your time traveling and not sorting out problems...lol

Beth54 · Guru

Me thinks you're right Bob.

wink

oldbobsbus · Guru

Wirroff (Paul and Val) called in here the other day and I couldn't believe how good their new (To them) Mercedes based motorhome was and how well it was laid out.

If I was looking for a unit just for me I would be looking at something like they have..
It is an Aust sold base unit with an Aust built body on it..

The dog lady · Guru

Beth54 wrote:
Me thinks you're right Bob.

Can't agree there Beth. I got a grey import because I wanted a HiAce with all the trimmings that you don't get in local ones, plus all-wheel drive and low kms. There are a number of reputable firms who will get you the vehicle you specify and take care of all the admin to reg it in Au. And after owning mine for 2 years + I have had no significant issues with parts etc. Just need a mechanic who is willing to go the extra mile, and then only because the 4WD version of HiAce was never released here. Most (tho admittedly not all) parts are interchangeable with a HiLux. I needed a new radiator and my mechanic had one made for only a little more than any standard part (the original was plastic!)

This discussion takes me back to 1969 when I bought a Landcruiser and everyone said I would regret it (should have bought a Land Rover) because parts would be difficult to get!

Joe50 · Guru

SnowT wrote:
Hiya Baz..

I'm doing the whole process thru an importer..
I have been very Specific of what I want to get..
[snip]

- http://www.japautoauctions.com/aj_neo#1:COASTER
I use the above site to check and see what is coming up at auction..

- http://exportcar.jp/en/component/auctstat/
I use this site to check and see what price they sell for..

hope this help's..

Thanks for the links, Juergen

Joe

tmacla14 · Newbie

Hey Everyone! Im new to this group but in my lengthy search for a suitable Toyota Coaster to fit out I keep stumbling upon this group and this thread in particular! Lots of great advice and info in it. My question to anyone still around would be to the people who have imported - Which Import companies have you used and who is the best to go through. I have picked out several coasters I like from Japan but I have no idea where to start to even look at pricing them up for import and the rules and regs surrounding it. Or if it is even worth it. I just can't seem to find the right one having looked Australia wide. I am hoping some of you are still around as I know this thread is a few years old now. Fingers crossed! Hahaha

Jaahn · Guru

Hi smile

This is an old thread, interesting though !

My advice would be to go to the Commonwealth Gov website and see what the regs are for imports, first. Then you will know direct what has to be done before people tell you stories. You cannot import any vehicle without getting the paperwork done first to approve it. Or customs will refuse entry and charge you for the sending back. That is why you may be advised to use an agent to get it to a port and state where it can be approved in Australia.

Jaahn

tmacla14 · Newbie

Thanks Jaahn, you dont happen to know any agents do you?

Jaahn · Guru

tmacla14 wrote:
Thanks Jaahn, you dont happen to know any agents do you?

Hi tmacia smile

No I only know by looking for the sellers who have Japanese imports for sale. Probably ones who sell only cars can also get Coasters. One possible problem buying a Coaster or car privately is knowing the condition of the actual unit you are buying. There are 'sharks' in every selling system including the Japanese auction system. Going into that without a guide seems risky even for me !! You would need to have a Japanese friend to read the original site information and offers, at a minimum. At least dealing with an Australian seller/agent will be covered by our law here. hmm

Jaahn