Suzuki Cappuccino Import Guide: What a Kei Roadster Costs to Land
A tiny turbocharged kei roadster that delivers big driving fun in a featherweight package.
A Suzuki Cappuccino costs about $17,970 all-in to import on the Japan → USA route in 2026 — a $11,000 purchase plus roughly $6,970 in shipping, 2.5% duty, compliance and registration.
- Route
- Japan → USA
- Est. all-in cost
- ~$17,970
- Duty & tax
- 2.5% duty
- On a purchase of
- $11,000
The Suzuki Cappuccino is a kei-class roadster with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and near-perfect weight balance.
Its small size and charm make it a favorite among importers seeking something unique and affordable.
How much does it cost to import a Suzuki Cappuccino?
Every line below is a researched 2026 estimate in USD. We start from the $11,000 purchase price, add marine insurance at about 1.5% and ocean freight, then 2.5% US duty on the declared value, and the broker, compliance and registration fees. Change the purchase price and everything else scales only modestly.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $11,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $165 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $275 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $17,970 |
Into USA the duty is light, just $275, so tax is the small part of the bill. It is shipping (about $2,700), compliance and registration that make up most of the roughly $6,970 you add on top of the $11,000 purchase price — around 63% before you turn a wheel.
How to import a Suzuki Cappuccino, step by step
- Agree the purchase and secure the title/export paperwork in Japan (an export agent or auction house usually handles de-registration).
- Book ocean freight — roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) is cheapest, a sole-use container is safest for a high-value car.
- Confirm eligibility from the build month — the US 25-year DOT exemption is calculated month by month, not by model year.
- Clear US customs and pay the 2.5% duty, then file EPA Form 3520-1 and DOT Form HS-7 at entry.
- Arrange inland transport, then title and register in your state — a few states add emissions or kei-vehicle checks.
Is a Suzuki Cappuccino legal to import? Rules & compliance
Cappuccino cars older than 25 years are DOT-exempt under the 25-year rule, with EPA exemption at 21 years. Some states have specific rules for kei vehicles, so check local registration requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can I register a kei car like the Cappuccino in any state?+
Most states allow it, but a few restrict kei vehicles, so confirm your state's rules before importing.
Is the Cappuccino fast?+
It is modestly powered but very light, which makes it feel lively and engaging to drive.
What is the total estimated cost to import a Suzuki Cappuccino?+
About $17,970 all-in for a $11,000 example — the purchase price plus roughly $6,970 in freight, insurance, duty, compliance and registration. Your figure shifts with the exact price, route and exchange rate.
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