Automotive Industry Report Vol.84 reviews changes in Japan’s used car market, export demand and shipping conditions. For overseas dealers, its main message is to assess the vehicle price together with delivery costs and the time needed to get stock ready for sale.
The Japanese-language report describes an easing of auction price pressure as supply increases, while export demand continues to support the market. New figures published by USS show why buyers should be cautious about treating one month’s decline as a lasting trend.
Auction supply grows, but prices remain uneven
In September 2026, USS recorded 329,966 vehicles offered at auction, up 19.2% year on year. The average selling price was ¥1,275,000, down 2.2%, and the share of offered vehicles sold fell to 64.4%, from 70.3% a year earlier.
October’s preliminary figures, published on November 5, show a different price movement: the average reached ¥1,326,000, up 1.6% year on year. Supply increased by 16.0%, while the share sold declined to 62.4%. These are USS auction figures, not a price index covering every Japanese vehicle.
More supply can give buyers more lots to compare. It does not mean that a particular model, grade or mileage range will be cheaper. Recent results for comparable vehicles remain the better basis for a bid.
Shipping costs affect purchasing decisions
The report also describes pressure on shipping capacity and delays affecting some export routes. Its commentary on Malaysia and Sri Lanka points to buyers becoming more cautious when import costs or delivery schedules are uncertain. These observations describe conditions covered by the report; they do not establish today’s availability for an individual shipment.
Before committing to a purchase, dealers should confirm the available sailing, quotation validity and storage terms. For inland destinations, the calculation also needs to include transport beyond the discharge port.
What buyers should check before ordering
- Compare recent auction results for the same model, year, condition and mileage.
- Calculate the total cost to the intended delivery point, including destination expenses.
- Confirm shipping availability and allow for the period before the vehicle can be sold.
- Check current import eligibility for the final destination before bidding.
For purchase planning, see our guide to calculating landed cost and the country import pages.
Sources: 自動車業界レポート (Automotive Industry Report), Vol.84, sections II–III, pp.4–7; USS monthly auction data for September and October 2026, checked November 6, 2026. The report’s market commentary is attributed to its authors and is separate from the USS figures added to this update. This news summary is not a quotation or a forecast of vehicle prices or delivery dates.