Steps and tips for shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas
For those who are thinking of shipping mail-order products overseas from Japan, we will explain in detail the steps, points, and precautions to take. While there is an increasing demand for products that are popular in Japan to be available overseas, there is a lot of important information that you need to know, such as checking prohibited items for export, shipping rules for each country, and shipping costs. In this article, we will explain the process step by step to make it easy even for first-time users, and introduce safe and efficient shipping methods.
There are many people who are thinking of shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas.
The quality and variety of products sold domestically are highly valued outside of Japan, and you may want to take advantage of this to expand your business opportunities.
However, overseas shipping has its own rules and procedures, and each must be handled appropriately.
Here, we will explain in detail the points and steps you need to know when sending mail-order products from Japan to overseas.
Let's work together to make sure it's not too difficult even for first-timers.
Check if the product can be shipped
About export prohibited items
The first thing you should check is whether the product you are trying to send is a prohibited item for export.
Generally, the following products fall under this category:
- Weapons (firearms, ammunition, etc.)
- Hazardous materials (explosives, toxic substances, etc.)
- Fake branded or illegally copied products
- Media containing data that violates the Personal Information Protection Act
Specific regulations vary by country, so be sure to do your research beforehand.
Need to check the regulations of the shipping country
Another important thing is whether the package can be received in the destination country/region.
Each country has regulations regarding the products that can be brought into the country. For example, alcoholic beverages: In many cases alcoholic beverages are prohibited at altitude.
How much does it cost to ship overseas?
About shipping costs to overseas countries
Shipping costs for shipping items from Japan to other countries vary depending on a variety of factors.
The most common factors include the weight and size of the item, and the country of delivery.
Additionally, prices vary greatly depending on the shipping method and carrier.
For example, JP Post offers services such as "International e-Packet" and "EMS."
Generally, EMS is faster and more reliable, but it also comes at a cost.
On the other hand, international e-packet is relatively inexpensive, but the delivery time may be longer.
To give a specific example, if you send 500 grams of product from Japan to the United States, the shipping fee will be approximately 2,000 yen.
Also, in some cases, 1 kilogram costs more than 3,500 yen.
Please note that there is a large difference in price depending on weight.
Major delivery companies and their characteristics
Multiple shipping companies are available for shipping from Japan to other countries.
Each has its own features and pricing structure, so choose the one that best suits your product and needs.
Japan Post (JP Post)
- EMS: Fastest and most reliable, but also expensive.
- SAL (Surface Air Lifted): Cheaper but slower than air transport, making it a moderate option.
- Airmail: Faster than SAL, but not as fast as EMS and cheaper.
DHL Express
DHL is a widely used carrier around the world and offers fast shipping services.
However, it is slightly more expensive than other options.
Benefit from quality customer service and extensive tracking options.
FedEx International Priority/International Economy
- International Priority: Same as DHL, very fast but expensive. Suitable if you are in a hurry.
- International Economy: For less urgent needs than Priority, some prices are cheaper. However, it has a reputation for reliability and can be used with confidence.
How long does delivery take?
How long does it take for Japanese mail order products to be shipped overseas?
When shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas, delivery time is a very important factor.
Especially when it comes to urgent orders or gifts, it is important to know in advance how long it will take.
Here, we will introduce the estimated delivery time for each major shipping company.
Japan Post (JP Post) delivery time
Japan Post provides international postal services and has the following shipping options:
EMS (International Speed Mail)
EMS is the fastest international shipping service provided by Japan Post.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 2-4 days
- North America/Europe: 3-6 days
- Other areas: 5-10 days
EMS also provides tracking services, allowing you to check the delivery status in real time.
Air mail
Airmail is a relatively fast shipping option, although it is a little slower than EMS.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 3-7 days
- North America/Europe: 5-10 days
- Other areas: 7-14 days
Airmail also offers tracking services so you can check the delivery status.
SAL flight (economy flight)
SAL shipping is a shipping option that is intermediate between air shipping and sea shipping.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 6-13 days
- North America/Europe: 10-20 days
- Other areas: 14-30 days
SAL shipping offers good cost performance, but tracking services may not be provided.
Sea mail
Surface mail is the slowest shipping option but has a very low cost.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 1-3 months
- North America/Europe: 2-3 months
- Other areas: 3-4 months
Tracking services are often not provided for sea mail.
DHL Express delivery time
DHL Express provides a very reliable and fast service for international shipping.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 1-3 days
- North America/Europe: 2-4 days
- Other areas: 3-7 days
DHL Express provides a tracking service that allows you to check the delivery status in real time.
DHL also handles customs clearance quickly, which often shortens delivery times.
FedEx delivery time
FedEx also provides reliable and fast service for international shipping.
FedEx has the following shipping options:
FedEx International Priority
FedEx International Priority is the fastest international shipping option.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 1-3 days
- North America/Europe: 2-4 days
- Other areas: 3-5 days
This option offers tracking services and allows you to check the delivery status in real time.
FedEx International Economy
FedEx International Economy is a cost-effective yet relatively fast shipping option.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 3-5 days
- North America/Europe: 4-6 days
- Other areas: 5-7 days
This option also offers tracking services so you can check the delivery status.
UPS delivery time
UPS also provides reliable and fast service for international shipping.
UPS has the following shipping options:
UPS Worldwide Express
UPS Worldwide Express is the fastest international shipping option.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 1-3 days
- North America/Europe: 2-4 days
- Other areas: 3-5 days
This option offers tracking services and allows you to check the delivery status in real time.
UPS Worldwide Expedited
UPS Worldwide Expedited is a cost-effective yet relatively fast shipping option.
Generally, delivery times are as follows:
- Asia: 3-5 days
- North America/Europe: 4-6 days
- Other areas: 5-7 days
This option also offers tracking services so you can check the delivery status.
Factors affecting delivery time
Shipping times may be affected by factors such as:
Customs clearance
International shipping requires customs clearance. Sometimes the customs clearance process goes smoothly, but sometimes it takes a long time.
Customs clearance procedures may be delayed, especially in countries with strict import regulations or restrictions on specific product categories.
Delivery area
Delivery time also varies depending on the destination area.
Delivery to urban areas is relatively fast, but delivery to rural areas and remote islands may take longer. Weather and traffic conditions may also affect delivery times.
Delivery company congestion status
Delivery carrier congestion is also one of the factors that affects delivery time. In particular, during busy periods such as New Year's holidays and long holidays, delivery companies may be busy and delivery times may take longer than usual.
Product size and weight
The size and weight of the product may also affect delivery time.
Large or heavy items may require special delivery routes instead of regular delivery routes, which may result in longer delivery times.
What about returns, exchanges, and warranties?
When shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas, many people may have questions about returns, exchanges, and warranties. Here, we will explain these responses in detail.
Basic rules for returns and exchanges
When shipping items purchased from Japanese online shopping sites overseas, the rules for returns and exchanges may differ from those for domestic purchases.
Below are some general rules.
Check return policy
First, it is important to check the online retailer's return policy before making a purchase.
Many sites have clear return and exchange terms.
In particular, if the item is being shipped overseas, returns may not be accepted, so be sure to check in advance.
Return period
The return deadline is also an important point.
Generally, you must request a return within 7 to 30 days after receiving the item. Please note that when shipping overseas, the return deadline may be shorter.
Return shipping fee
Return shipping costs are often the responsibility of the purchaser. Shipping costs should also be taken into account when considering returns, especially when returning items from overseas, as shipping costs can be expensive.
Product condition
In order for a return or exchange to be accepted, the product must often be unused. Items may be required to be in original packaging with tags still attached.
Exchange procedure
Just like returns, exchange procedures must follow the online retailer's policies. Below is the general flow of the exchange procedure.
Apply for exchange
First, if you wish to exchange it, contact the customer support of the online shopping site.
You will need to provide details of the reason for the exchange and the product you want.
Check stock of replacement products
Check to see if the item you wish to exchange is in stock. If the item is out of stock, we may not be able to exchange it, so it is important to check in advance.
Shipping replacement products
If your exchange is approved, we will process the replacement item for you.
It is important to proceed with the process well in advance, as it may take some time to ship the replacement product.
About warranty
When shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas, you should also be concerned about warranty support.
Below is an introduction to the general warranty process.
Check the warranty period
First, check the warranty period of the product you purchased.
The warranty period varies depending on the product, but generally it is around 1 to 2 years.
Repairs or replacements are often available within the warranty period.
Storage of warranty
The warranty card is a necessary document in order to obtain warranty coverage.
It is often included in the package at the time of purchase, so please keep it in a safe place.
If you do not have a warranty card, you may not be able to receive warranty support.
Apply for warranty
If you wish to receive warranty assistance, please contact the customer support of the online shopping site.
We will provide details of the defect or failure of the product and apply for warranty support.
Repair or replacement procedures
If warranty coverage is approved, a repair or replacement will be processed.
For repairs, the product must be sent to a designated repair center.
In the case of an exchange, a new item will be shipped.
Notes and advice
Here are some points to keep in mind and advice regarding returns, exchanges, and warranties when shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas.
Check in advance
Be sure to check the return, exchange, and warranty policies before purchasing. Please be especially careful when shipping overseas, as different rules may apply than in Japan.
Access to customer support
If you have any questions about returns, exchanges, or warranties, we recommend contacting the online store's customer support. Get fast and accurate information.
Timing of returns or exchanges
If you wish to return or exchange an item, please complete the procedure as soon as possible. If the return deadline has passed, we may not be able to respond to your request.
Maintain product condition
In order for a return or exchange to be accepted, the product must often be unused. When you receive the product, please check its condition immediately and if there is a problem, please contact us as soon as possible.
Storage of warranty
The warranty card is a necessary document in order to obtain warranty coverage. It is often included in the package at the time of purchase, so please keep it in a safe place.
If you do not have a warranty card, you may not be able to receive warranty support.
summary
We introduced the basic rules and procedures for returns, exchanges, and warranties when shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas.
By thoroughly checking the policy before making a purchase and quickly completing the necessary procedures, you can receive a smooth response. Especially when shipping overseas, it is important to allow plenty of time for shipping and procedures.
What should I pay attention to in order to receive it safely?
When shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas, many people are concerned about whether the products will arrive safely.
Especially when using overseas shipping for the first time, it is very important to know what points to be careful about.
In this article, we will explain in detail the precautions to take when receiving mail-order items safely.
Selection of delivery company
First, it is important to choose a reliable shipping company.
The quality of service, prices, and delivery times vary depending on the shipping company, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Check the shipping company's reputation
To check the reputation of a delivery company, it is best to refer to reviews and word of mouth on the internet.
In particular, the opinions of people living in the same country or region are very helpful.
Check if you have insurance
If you are shipping expensive or fragile items, check to see if they are insured.
With insurance, you can receive compensation even if your product is damaged or lost.
Packaging ideas
Proper packaging is essential for the product to arrive safely.
Inadequate packaging increases the risk of product damage.
Use proper packaging materials
It is important to use packaging materials that are appropriate for the product.
For example, use bubble wrap or Styrofoam for fragile items, and choose sturdy outer packaging.
fill the gap
If there are gaps inside the box, the product may move and be damaged.
Use newspaper or cushioning material to fill in the gaps to secure the item so it doesn't move.
Checking customs clearance procedures
Customs clearance procedures are required when shipping products overseas.
Please check the necessary documents and information in advance to ensure that the customs clearance process goes smoothly.
Prepare the necessary documents
Documents such as invoices and packing lists are required for customs clearance.
These documents should include product details, price, and origin and destination information.
Confirm duties and taxes
Depending on the country of destination, customs duties and taxes may apply.
Check these costs in advance and be prepared to pay if necessary.
Use of tracking services
By using a tracking service that allows you to check where your products are in real time, you can wait for your products with peace of mind.
Check tracking number
Once the item has been shipped, check the tracking number.
You can use the tracking number to check the location of your item on the shipping company's website or app.
Utilize notification settings
Many shipping carriers offer a service that sends you notifications whenever the status of an item is updated.
By turning on notification settings, you can always stay informed about the status of your products.
Preparation for pick up
It is important that you have your items ready for pickup when they arrive.
Please prepare in advance, especially if a signature is required or if you are receiving a large item.
Check pick-up time
Some delivery companies offer a service that allows you to specify a pick-up time. Specify a pick-up time that suits your convenience.
Confirm pickup location
Please check the location where the product will be delivered.
In particular, if you live in a condominium or apartment, contacting the property manager or concierge in advance will help ensure smooth reception.
What to do in case of trouble
In the unlikely event that a product is damaged or lost, it is important to respond quickly.
Contact carrier
If there is a problem with your product, please contact the shipping company first.
The carrier will be happy to assist you in resolving the issue.
Contact seller
It is important to contact not only the shipping company, but also the seller.
The vendor may be able to reship the item or issue a refund.
summary
When shipping Japanese mail-order products overseas, it is important to select a shipping company, pack appropriately, check customs clearance procedures, use a tracking service, prepare for receipt, and respond in case of trouble.
By keeping these points in mind, you can receive your items safely.
Even if it is your first time shipping overseas, by following these precautions you will be able to receive your product with peace of mind.
