Well buying a car directly from japan has its risks, thats why in most cases it works out cheaper than buying locally. its like someone losing a guage, stereo etc. its all a risk which comes with trying to import a car yourself.
In regards to the shipping responsibility it would be the shipping company's, you can probably chase it up with them but i doubt if anything will eventuate, if you have the time and patience you might want to give it a shot.