What is a pre-shipment inspection (PSI)?

What is a pre-shipment inspection?

A pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is a roadworthiness and identity check performed on every used vehicle exported from Japan to Sri Lanka. The inspection is conducted in Japan before the car is loaded for shipping, and the resulting certificate is required by Sri Lanka Customs at the time of import declaration.

The most commonly used PSI provider for the Sri Lanka route is the Japan Auto Appraisal Institute (JAAI) — a Tokyo-based independent body. Other approved providers include EAA and Quality Inspection Services (QISJ).

What’s checked

• Vehicle identity — chassis number, engine number, model code, year of manufacture all match declared specifications
• Roadworthiness — brakes, steering, suspension, lights, emissions
• Body condition — no major undeclared damage between the auction-sheet date and shipping
• Odometer integrity — current reading is logged and reconciled against service records
• Document integrity — original Japanese export certificate and de-registration paperwork

Why it’s separate from the auction sheet

The auction sheet is a snapshot at the moment the car entered auction. The PSI is a snapshot at the moment the car leaves Japan. There can be weeks or even months between the two — during which the car may have been driven, transported between facilities, or temporarily registered. The PSI catches any condition changes in that window.

Cost and timing

PSI is typically ¥10,000–15,000 per vehicle and adds 2–5 days to the export timeline. It’s bundled into the standard ~LKR 145,000 business-cost line on every Car Dreams landed-price breakdown — see pricing.md for the full itemisation.

What happens if PSI fails

A failed PSI means the vehicle cannot be exported until the issues are resolved. For minor failures (lights, fluid leaks) we coordinate the fix in Japan; major failures (chassis discrepancy, undisclosed accident damage) trigger our buyer-protection process, which usually means we source a replacement vehicle and you’re not charged for the failed unit.