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Importing a Daihatsu
Looking to import a Daihatsu to the Netherlands? Then you already know your options here are exhausted. Daihatsu left the European market for good in 2013. Since then, every Daihatsu in the Netherlands is second-hand, but production in Japan continues without interruption. Dozens of models never sold here, from the Copen GR Sport to the Rocky A200 and a wide range of kei cars, are exclusively available through import from Japan. At SCL Rotterdam, we handle the entire import process from A to Z.
Why import a Daihatsu?
Japan is Daihatsu's home market and the only country where the brand continues producing new cars. Models such as the Daihatsu Rocky A200, the Copen GR Sport, the Tanto, the Move and dozens of kei cars were never officially offered in Europe. If you want to drive one, you import it. On top of that, well-maintained second-hand examples of European models like the Terios, Sirion and Materia can be found in Japan and Australia, sometimes in better condition than what is available on the Dutch used car market.
Why choose SCL Rotterdam as your Daihatsu importer?
Full service, everything under one roof
At SCL Rotterdam, we combine over 15 years of import experience with a passion for special and rare vehicles. Our service covers not just the shipping from Japan, but also the complete customs clearance, storage and all technical modifications in our own workshop. One point of contact, no fuss.
Years of experience with Japanese imports
Japan is familiar territory for us. We know the export procedures, the required documents and the technical modifications a Japanese Daihatsu needs for approval on Dutch roads. Read more about how we import vehicles.
Support with purchase and modifications
Have you already found your Daihatsu, or are you still looking for the right example? SCL Rotterdam offers professional purchase guidance. We help you find or assess the right car and can arrange an inspection before it goes on transport. Japanese kei cars and domestic models require specific modifications for European roads, including lighting, rear fog lights and emissions documentation. Our workshop handles this expertly.
Cost of importing a Daihatsu
Costs depend on the model, the country of origin and the services you choose. For a Japanese import, transport, customs, tax and any conversion work all come together. You can request a no-obligation quote for an exact price. Transparent and no hidden costs.
Transport options for your Daihatsu
Container transport and Roll-on/Roll-off transport (Ro-Ro)
From Japan, there are two proven options: Ro-Ro transport is ideal for newer models in good condition and is the most common route for Japanese imports. Container transport offers extra protection for rare or fragile examples. We advise on which option suits your situation best and always recommend transport insurance, which we can arrange through our insurance partner.
Global ports and speed of delivery
We import vehicles from ports all over the world. Most Daihatsus come from Japanese ports such as Yokohama, Nagoya or Osaka. We know these routes well and ensure your car arrives in Rotterdam safely and on time.
Advantages of SCL Rotterdam
Own storage facilities and fast customs clearance
We have our own facilities for safe storage and keep the entire customs process in-house. That makes the procedure significantly faster. Our full service package also includes Dutch registration and tax declaration, using a favourable calculation method to keep the tax liability as low as possible.
What to watch out for when importing a Daihatsu
Conversion tips
Japanese Daihatsus are built for Japanese roads and differ from European specifications in several areas. Kei cars are certified under Japanese fiscal regulations and have different lighting, different emissions standards and sometimes different safety equipment. Our workshop carries out all necessary conversion to European standards, so your Daihatsu passes the RDW inspection without issues. Registering a kei car requires specific expertise, and we have it.
Purchase inspection
Japanese cars have a reputation for good maintenance, but quality and service history still vary between examples. A thorough inspection beforehand provides certainty. Our specialists know exactly what to look for with Japanese imports. Visit our purchase inspection page for more information.
Payment service
We also offer a payment service so you can handle the purchase of your Daihatsu safely and without complications. This gives you extra certainty that the transaction goes smoothly.
Popular Daihatsu models to import
Clients regularly import the following Daihatsu models through SCL Rotterdam:
- Daihatsu Copen and Copen GR Sport – the compact roadster with electric folding roof, still in production in Japan
- Daihatsu Rocky A200 – the modern crossover SUV Daihatsu sells in Japan, never officially sold in Europe
- Daihatsu Terios – the small four-wheel-drive SUV, discontinued in Europe but still available in Japan and Indonesia
- Daihatsu Tanto and Move – iconic kei cars with surprisingly generous space, available only through Japanese import
- Daihatsu Charade GTti – the rare turbocharged three-cylinder hot hatch, sought after by enthusiasts
- Daihatsu Rocky F70 and Feroza – classic off-roaders with a loyal following in the Netherlands and beyond
- Daihatsu Sirion, Cuore and Materia – European models sometimes better preserved in Japan or Australia than here
Shipping a Daihatsu: why choose SCL Rotterdam?
Unlimited passion for cars
Our passion for cars is something you feel as a customer. Daihatsu is a brand that never stopped in Japan but has been unjustly forgotten in Europe. We understand the appeal of models that were never sold here and handle every import with the care it deserves.
Direct contact with our specialists
Do you have questions about importing a Daihatsu? The specialists at SCL Rotterdam are ready to help. Call us or fill in the contact form for personal advice.
What can we do for you?
At SCL Rotterdam, we understand that importing a Daihatsu from Japan is an exciting but sometimes complex process. That is why we take care of everything. From purchase guidance to delivery at your door, we handle it all.
Ready to import your Daihatsu? Request a quote today or get in touch for more information. We are ready to get your Daihatsu on Dutch plates quickly and correctly.
