Shipping used machinery from Japan: what buyers should know
Shipping is often the part of buying overseas that feels the least transparent. Here's a plain-language overview of how it works on JMT, and what actually happens between "machine sold" and "machine arrives."
Updated July 1, 2026
Container vs. RoRo
Smaller machines and attachments are often containerized; larger excavators, wheel loaders, and trucks may ship RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) or on a flat rack, depending on size and destination port. JMT coordinates the method that fits your machine and route.
What happens after you pay
Once JMT has received and confirmed your payment, the machine moves from the seller's yard to port, gets loaded, and export documentation is prepared. Each of these steps is tracked, so you're not waiting on a single email update.
The Bill of Lading matters
The Bill of Lading (B/L) is the shipping document that confirms your machine is actually on the vessel. It's also the trigger point in JMT's payment flow: the seller is paid only after the B/L is issued and verified, not before.
- Export documentation prepared and tracked by JMT
- Method (container, RoRo, or flat rack) matched to machine size and route
- Seller paid only after B/L is confirmed
- Status visible in your Buyer Hub throughout
Before you buy
If you have a specific destination port or import requirement, mention it in your inquiry early — it can affect which shipping method makes sense and the realistic timeline.