Customs Regulations for Mailing Items From Japan

Customs regulations for mailing items from Japan are fairly straightforward. Required forms are printed in Japanese and English. Check the list of prohibited items. Regulations listed here are as of October 2009; be aware that regulations may change.

How to mail from Japan

Considerations

Different regulations apply to items worth less than 200,000 yen ($2,197 USD as of October 2009) and worth more than 200,000 yen.

Though the forms have English instructions, the staff may not understand English. Prepare for possible questions or instructions in Japanese before going to the post office.

Items Valued Less Than 200,000 yen

Export declaration are not necessary. Fill out the necessary "Customs Form" or "Customs Notice" and attach the form to the item. If, after posting, customs officials decide the item requires further approval or licensing, a "Customs Clearance Procedure for Export Post Items" postcard will be sent to the sender.

Items Valued More than 200,000 yen

Export declaration is necessary, either at a post office or customs office. Prepare the invoice and other documents necessary for export declaration. The Japan Post Office requires an "Export Declaration" form describing necessary details. The form must be accompanied by an invoice or its substitute.

Warning

The following items may be required for export declaration: a) packing list, b) permit or approval if required by other customs-related laws and regulations, c) documents concerning reduction of or exemption from customs duty, d) "Application for a Certificate of Export."

Prohibited Items

In brief, Japanese customs prohibits the mailing of these items from Japan: counterfeit, altered or imitated coins, paper money, banknotes or securities; plants with soil; meats and fruits; animals without health certificates; firearms and ammunition; narcotics; and obscene articles.

References

• The following items may be required

Resources

• Complete description of prohibited items