Importing a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde from Japan — Full Guide

Thinking of owning a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde at the best price?
Japanese car auctions are one of the best ways to find luxury cars like the E-Class in excellent condition, often at prices far below local dealer markets.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to import a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde (E200), including auction process, costs, and how to translate the Japanese auction sheet so you can buy safely from anywhere in the world.


Why Buy a Mercedes-Benz E-Class from Japan?

  • Excellent condition – Many Japanese cars have surprisingly low mileage.

  • Strict inspections – Japan’s Shaken test means cars are well-maintained.

  • Better prices – Even with shipping and duties, imports often cost less than local dealer stock.

  • Luxury specs – Japan often has higher trim levels and features not available elsewhere.

👉 Tip: Before bidding, always check the auction sheet. Use AuctionSheet.co to get a full English translation instantly.


Step 1: Understanding the Auction Process

Japan’s auction houses (USS, JU, TAA) list over 100,000 vehicles weekly. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde is a popular model, with clean examples often appearing at these auctions.

Each car comes with:

  • An auction sheet (in Japanese) with full grading, mileage, and notes.

  • A detailed inspection from auction house staff.

Since private buyers usually can’t bid directly, you’ll need an exporter or agent to handle the bidding and shipping process.


Step 2: Choosing an Exporter or Agent

A Japanese exporter will:

  • Register at the auction on your behalf.

  • Place bids and secure the car.

  • Arrange shipping to your country (RoRo or container).


Step 3: Example Auction Sheet — Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde 2016

Here’s a real example of a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E200 Avantgarde listed at a Japanese auction:

  • Grade: 4.5 (excellent overall condition)

  • Mileage: 30,000 km (~18,600 miles)

  • Interior: B (very clean with minor wear)

  • Exterior: B (well-kept, small scratches/dings possible)

  • Transmission: CAT (automatic)

  • Displacement: 2,000cc

  • Color: Silver

  • Capacity: 5 passengers

  • History: Private car (not rental or fleet)

⚠️ Problem: This information is in Japanese on the auction sheet.
✅ Solution: Upload the sheet to AuctionSheet.co for a complete English translation with inspector notes and condition details.

👉 Knowing this before you bid ensures you avoid costly mistakes.


Translating the Auction Sheet on AuctionSheet.co :

Auction Number: 38086
Vehicle Registration Date: 01/12/2016
Chassis Number: WDD2130422A070086
Model: Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Car Trim: E200 Avantgarde
Imported Car: Yes (Non Japanese make)
Engine Size: 2000 cc
Fuel: Gasoline (Petrol)
Use History:
Private

 

Model Code: RBA-213042C
Overall Grade: 4.5 (Very good condition)
Exterior Grade: B (Good condition)
Interior Grade: B (Good condition)
Mileage:
29,620 km

 

Transmission: AT (Automatic Transmission)
Exterior Color: Silver
Drive System: 2WD (2 Wheel Drive)
Doors: 4D (4-door)
Seats: 5 (5-seat)
Positive Features:
  • radar cruise control
  • 360-degree camera
  • aluminum wheels
  • heated leather seats
  • Navigation system
  • TV
  • camera
  • power steering
  • power windows
  • Push start

 

Negative Features:
  • aftermarket parts present
  • small exterior scratches
  • minor seat wear
  • dent (U2) on right rear door
  • rear bumper damage (B2)

 

Caution notes:
  • Push start (aftermarket: aftermarket parts present)
  • User trade-in vehicle
  • Small exterior scratches and minor interior wear noted

 

Important notes:
  • First time listed at auction (initial listing)

 

Exterior Condition:
  • Front left: scratch (A)
  • Front right: scratch (A)
  • Rear left: scratch (A)
  • Rear right: scratch (A)
  • Right rear door: dent (U2)
  • Rear bumper: damage (B2)
  • Hood/bonnet: repainted area (G)
  • Small exterior scratches noted on body

 

Interior Condition:
  • Seat: minor wear

 

Dimensions:
  • length:493 cm
  • width:185 cm
  • height:145 cm


Step 4: Estimating Costs

The cost of importing depends on:

  • Auction price (varies by condition, usually $10,000–$16,000 for a 2016 E200 Avantgarde). This particular E-Class is estimated to be JPY 1,450,000 (or $9,875).

  • Exporter/agent fee.

  • Shipping costs (RoRo is cheaper, containers provide more protection).

  • Taxes and duties (depend on your country’s import regulations).

💡 As a rough guide, expect final costs to be 30–40% higher than the auction hammer price once shipping and import taxes are included.


Step 5: Shipping & Registration

Once purchased, your Mercedes-Benz will be shipped from Japan. Options include:

  • RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) – more affordable, commonly used for standard cars.

  • Container shipping – more expensive but adds protection, good for luxury models.

When the car arrives:

  • You’ll clear customs in your country.

  • Pay import duties/taxes as required.

  • Register and complete local inspections (varies by country).

👉 Some countries may require modifications (e.g., lights, emissions), so always check your local regulations.


Final Thoughts

Importing a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Avantgarde from Japan can save you money and give you access to low-mileage, well-kept cars that are hard to find locally.

Don’t take risks with Japanese auction sheets you can’t read.
👉 Upload yours at AuctionSheet.co and get a detailed English translation instantly, so you can buy your next Mercedes with confidence.


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