Import & exotics
How custom import of an exotic car works in Malaysia
From choosing the spec to registering it with JPJ: how importing a Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren into Malaysia works, how long it takes, and what drives the cost.
Tue, 22 Sept 2026 · 2 min read
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Some cars are never on a showroom floor in Malaysia: a specific Ferrari spec, a limited-run Lamborghini, a McLaren in the colour you have always wanted. That is what custom import (private sourcing) is for.
Step 1: define the car
Start with the essentials:
- Make, model and year range
- Colour and options: exterior, interior, wheels, carbon packs, lift system
- Mileage and history requirements
- Budget and timeline
The more precise the spec, the faster the search.
Step 2: sourcing
We search dealer networks, auctions and private collections in right-hand drive markets such as Japan, the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia. Each candidate is checked for:
- Service history and ownership
- Independent inspection
- Accident and finance checks
- Import eligibility (age, specification)
You approve the car before any commitment.
Step 3: approvals and taxes
Used cars are imported under an Approved Permit (AP). The main cost components are:
- Import duty, which depends on where the car was made and trade agreements
- Excise duty, the largest component for big engines, rising steeply with engine capacity
- Sales tax
All are calculated on the car's customs-assessed value. For a V8 or V12, total taxes can be more than the car itself costs overseas. We give you a full landed-cost estimate before you commit.
Step 4: shipping and clearance
The car is shipped (container or RoRo), insured in transit, then cleared through customs at Port Klang or another port.
Step 5: inspection and registration
In Malaysia the car goes through Puspakom inspection, then JPJ registration, road tax and insurance. We also arrange ceramic coating, PPF or detailing if you want.
Step 6: handover
Delivered to your door, registered in your name.
How long does it take?
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Search and approval | 1 to 4 weeks |
| Purchase and export paperwork | 1 to 3 weeks |
| Shipping | 2 to 6 weeks |
| Clearance, Puspakom and JPJ | 2 to 4 weeks |
Allow 8 to 16 weeks in total.
Why use a specialist?
Importing yourself means dealing with overseas sellers, shippers, customs brokers and JPJ, with a lot of money at stake. A specialist handles every step and gives you one point of contact.
Our Private Sourcing service is handled personally by our owner, in confidence, and prices are always on request.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to import an exotic car to Malaysia?
Typically 8 to 16 weeks from agreeing the car to handover, depending on where it is sourced, shipping schedules and approvals.
Why is an imported supercar so expensive in Malaysia?
Import duty, excise duty and sales tax are charged on the car's assessed value. For large-engined cars the excise duty alone can exceed the value of the car, so taxes can more than double the landed cost.
Can I import a left-hand drive car?
Malaysia generally does not allow left-hand drive cars to be registered for normal road use. Exotic cars are sourced in right-hand drive from markets like Japan, the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia.
Is there an age limit on imported cars?
Yes. Import rules restrict the age of used cars brought in under an AP, which is why most imports are recent cars. Rules change, so we confirm eligibility for each car before you commit.
Private Sourcing
Looking for something rare?
Your request goes straight to our owner.
Make a private request