Shipping from the USA allows Japanese consumers to access a wider variety of products that might not be available locally. This helps Amazon cater to niche markets and meet the demands of specific customer segments in Japan. Shipping to Japan adds to Amazon’s revenue from international markets. This is vital for Amazon’s financial health, especially as it competes with local e-commerce giants like Rakuten in Japan. Shipping from the USA to Japan is part of Amazon’s broader global logistics network. Efficient shipment systems ensure that products can be quickly delivered across international borders, improving the overall logistics chain and reducing delivery times. Shipping from Amazon USA to Amazon Japan involves a few key steps that you should be aware of. Whether you’re an individual or a business, this guide will walk you through the process to help ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
Here’s your ultimate guide:
Step 1: Understand Amazon’s International Shipping Options
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to know that Amazon USA (Amazon.com) and Amazon Japan (Amazon.co.jp) are separate marketplaces. This means that shipping from one to the other isn’t as simple as a standard domestic Amazon order. Fortunately, Amazon offers some international shipping options, and there are third-party services you can use to bridge the gap.
a) Amazon Global Shipping
Amazon has a program called Amazon Global that allows certain items to be shipped internationally. However, not all products are eligible, and shipping costs can be higher for international orders.
- Eligible products: Check if the item you’re buying from Amazon USA is eligible for international shipping to Japan. This can be done by filtering your search for items that Amazon Global ships.
- International Delivery: If the item is eligible, Amazon will handle the shipping, customs, and import duties. The total cost is calculated at checkout.
b) Third-Party Shipping Services
For items that aren’t eligible for Amazon Global, you can use third-party services. These services allow you to ship products from Amazon USA to a forwarding address in the USA, and then forward them to your address in Japan.
Some popular third-party forwarding services include:
- Shipito
- Forward2Me
- MyUS
- Stackry
These companies give you a U.S. address, where Amazon USA will ship your product, and then they forward it to your Japan address.
Step 2: Create Accounts on Amazon USA and Amazon Japan
You’ll need to have active accounts on both Amazon USA and Amazon Japan. Here’s how to set them up:
- Amazon USA Account:
- Go to Amazon.com and sign up for a new account if you don’t have one.
- Add your U.S. address or a forwarding address if you’re using a shipping service.
- Amazon Japan Account:
- Visit Amazon.co.jp.
- Set up a new account by clicking on the “アカウント&リスト” (Account & Lists) option.
- Input your Japanese shipping address during registration.
Step 3: Purchase Items from Amazon USA
Once your accounts are set up, start purchasing items from Amazon USA:
- Search for Products: Use the Amazon USA website to find the items you want.
- Check Shipping Eligibility: Ensure the item is eligible for international shipping via Amazon Global, or use a forwarding service if it’s not.
- Add to Cart and Checkout:
- If Amazon Global ships the item directly to Japan, you can proceed with checkout and enter your Japanese address.
- If you are using a forwarding service, use the U.S. address provided by the shipping company.
Step 4: Use a Shipping Forwarding Service (If Needed)
If the product you want isn’t eligible for international shipping from Amazon, or if you want more flexibility with shipping options, using a forwarding service is your best bet.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how it works:
- Sign Up for a Forwarding Service:
Register with a forwarding company (e.g., Shipito, MyUS). - Obtain a U.S. Shipping Address:
You’ll be given a unique U.S. address (usually a warehouse or a postal address) that Amazon will ship your goods to. - Shop on Amazon USA:
When checking out on Amazon USA, use the forwarding service’s U.S. address as your shipping address. - Forward Your Package:
Once the package arrives at the forwarding service’s warehouse, you can choose the best shipping method to send it to Japan. These services usually offer multiple shipping options, from economy to expedited.
Step 5: Handle Customs and Import Duties
When shipping to Japan, you’ll likely have to deal with customs. The rules and duties for importing goods into Japan can vary depending on the value and type of item.
- Customs Declaration:
If you’re using a forwarding service, they will handle the customs declaration for you. However, you may need to provide necessary documents like receipts or invoices. - Customs Duties and Taxes:
Japan has specific import taxes and duties. Items with a value over 10,000 yen may be subject to customs duties, VAT (called Consumption Tax in Japan), and handling fees.- If Amazon is shipping directly, they will often calculate and include these fees during checkout.
- If you’re using a forwarding service, you will typically need to pay customs duties when the package arrives in Japan, unless the service offers prepaid duties.
Step 6: Track Your Shipment
After your purchase has been shipped, you can track it:
- Amazon Global Shipments:
Amazon will provide tracking information if they handle the international shipping. You can track the shipment through the Track Package section on Amazon. - Forwarding Services:
Once the package leaves the U.S. forwarding address, the forwarding service will give you tracking details for the international shipment to Japan.
Step 7: Delivery in Japan
Once your package arrives in Japan, the delivery process is similar to any other international shipment:
- Delivery Time:
Shipping times vary depending on the service used (typically between 7-14 days for standard shipping, but expedited options are faster). - Delivery Confirmation:
If there are any issues or delays, you will typically be notified by the forwarding service. For direct Amazon Global shipments, you will receive confirmation once the package is delivered. Along with this topic, you can also explore expanding internationally. If you’re interested in learning more, please click the attached link.https://ehpconsultinggroup.com/how-to-expand-from-amazon-usa-to-amazon-singapore-international-expansion/ and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTGeYR8JCqc
Additional Tips for Shipping from Amazon USA to Japan
- Check Seller Policies: If buying from a marketplace seller on Amazon USA, make sure they ship to Japan. Some sellers may not offer international shipping.
- Use Amazon Prime for Faster Delivery: If you’re purchasing an item that’s eligible for Amazon Prime, you can use the U.S. address from a forwarding service, and enjoy the fast shipping benefits (though Prime doesn’t apply for international shipments).
- Be Mindful of Prohibited Items: Some items may not be allowed into Japan, including certain electronics, food, and items with specific chemicals or substances. Check Japan’s import regulations before purchasing.
By following these steps, you can successfully ship from Amazon USA to Amazon Japan and get the products you want. Whether you’re using Amazon Global or a forwarding service, you can enjoy a seamless shopping experience across borders.
To learn more about How to Ship from Amazon USA to Amazon Japan. This video is a big help! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unwjoOXzDmc
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Written By: Apple May Quinto
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ehpconsultinggroup.com
Number: 925-293-3313
Date Written: December 20, 2024