Sourcing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for your vehicle can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when dealing with less common makes or models, or if you’re located outside of Japan. However, for those in the know, Amayama Car Parts has emerged as a reliable online platform to directly access a vast catalog of genuine Japanese auto parts. Based on firsthand experiences, this guide will walk you through what to expect when ordering from Amayama, helping you determine if they are the right source for your needs.
Understanding the Amayama Ordering Process and Timeline
One of the first things to understand about Amayama Car Parts is their operational model. They function as a middleman, connecting you directly with Japanese suppliers. This means they don’t keep a large inventory on hand, which allows them to offer an extensive range of parts. When you place an order, here’s a breakdown of the typical process and timeline:
- Order Placement and Review: You start by submitting your Bill of Materials (BOM) through their website. Allow 1 to 2 business days for their team to review your order, confirm part availability, and calculate shipping costs. Keep in mind that price changes in Japan can sometimes cause slight delays, and any price increases on your original order may result in automatic cancellations of those specific items, requiring a reorder.
- Supplier ETA and Availability: Amayama provides an Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) for each part. The standard ETA is often “6 days waiting from supplier,” indicating a high likelihood (around 95%) of obtaining the part within a few days. Longer ETAs usually signal that the part is backordered from the manufacturer.
- Warehouse Processing and Packaging: Once you approve the order and complete payment, Amayama initiates the order from their suppliers. It generally takes a minimum of 2 to 3 business days for the parts to arrive at their warehouse. They are known for their meticulous packaging, ensuring your parts are well-protected for international shipping.
- Shipping and Delivery: After careful packaging, your order is shipped out. Delivery typically takes 3 to 5 business days. The overall turnaround time, assuming all parts are readily available, is usually around 1.5 to 2 weeks.
- Shipping Considerations: It’s important to note that Amayama only ships complete orders. If any part is backordered, you will be notified and given the option to accept the delay or reject the backordered item. If you opt to wait for a backordered part, your entire order will be held until it arrives. Currently, due to shipping service changes, FedEx, UPS, or DHL are the primary shipping options, with costs starting around $80 USD and increasing based on package size and weight. The shipping costs initially displayed on the website are estimates, and the final shipping quote will be provided after order review.
Key Considerations Before Ordering from Amayama
While Amayama Car Parts offers a valuable service, there are a few important factors to consider before placing your order:
- Customer Service Response Time: Be aware that their customer service response time can be slower than you might be accustomed to. Expect replies to take 1 to 2 business days. Communication may also feel somewhat impersonal as it is often through standardized messages.
- No Returns and Order Cancellations: Double and triple-check your order before finalizing and paying. Amayama generally does not accept returns, and orders cannot be cancelled once payment is processed and parts are ordered from suppliers. They are primarily a parts intermediary and not a traditional retailer.
- OEM Parts Guarantee: A significant advantage of using Amayama is the assurance that you are receiving genuine OEM parts, primarily from Honda and other Japanese manufacturers. This eliminates concerns about fitment issues or the quality inconsistencies sometimes associated with aftermarket parts. You can trust that the parts will be correct for your vehicle based on OEM specifications.
- Potential Customs Duties: You may be responsible for import duties or taxes upon arrival of the package in your country. However, personal experience suggests that duties are not always levied, possibly depending on the value and destination. Be prepared for the possibility, and factor it into your overall cost calculation. In some instances, packages might be held briefly in customs for clearance, which may require communication with the shipping carrier.
Is Amayama Car Parts Right for You?
Amayama Car Parts is an excellent resource for sourcing hard-to-find or specific OEM Japanese auto parts. They are particularly well-suited for individuals who:
- Prioritize genuine OEM quality: If you insist on using only authentic manufacturer parts for your vehicle’s maintenance or restoration, Amayama provides direct access to these components.
- Are not in a rush: The 1.5 to 2 week average turnaround time, and potential delays for backordered items, means Amayama is best for planned maintenance or repairs where you have some flexibility in timing.
- Need a wide selection of parts: Their extensive catalog, sourced directly from Japanese suppliers, offers a broader range of parts compared to many domestic retailers, especially for older or less common Japanese vehicles.
If you value OEM quality, are comfortable with a potentially longer delivery timeframe, and require access to a wide range of Japanese auto parts, Amayama Car Parts is a highly recommended platform to consider. Just be sure to carefully review your order before submission and factor in potential shipping costs and customs duties for a smooth and successful parts procurement experience.
