How to ship to USA from Japan: 3 things to know and industry tips

3 steps to shipping from Japan to the United States

Shipping goods from one international destination to another involves meticulous planning, understanding of regulations, and choosing the right logistics partner. This article provides an easy-to-understand guide to shipping from Japan to the United States of America (USA) and what businesses or individuals should consider before making a cross-border shipment.

Step 1: Get to know the basics of international shipping

When it comes to international shipping between Japan and the US, the first step is to grasp the basics. This includes understanding the Japan and US customs regulations, selecting suitable shipping methods depending on your shipment contents, and being aware of the expected delivery timelines. 

Understanding what kind of goods qualify under trade agreements between the US and Japan, such as the US-Japan Trade Agreement (USJTA), can provide significant advantages in terms of cost and efficiency. Such agreements impact customs duties and tariff rates, and restrict or make it easier for certain items to pass through customs. This kind of knowledge can be very beenficial for businesses or wholesalers, in particular.

Step 2: Preparing your shipment: Documents and packaging

Proper preparation of your shipment is crucial for a smooth transit and customs clearance. The documentation for shipping internationally can be extensive and must be prepared accurately and in detail.

Essential paperwork includes your airway bill, commercial invoice, export declaration forms, and depending on the type of goods, potentially other documents like certificates of origin or phytosanitary certificates. Find out what documents you need for international shipping to avoid shipping delays.

It is also very important to package your shipment properly. Use sturdy enough packaging to protect your goods during international transport. Use strong, corrugated boxes, adequate cushioning materials such as bubble wrap or foam inserts, and sealing packages securely to prevent damage and ensure they remain intact throughout their journey. Many customers these days are also concerned about sustainability and reducing waste, so keep that in mind as well and do not use excess packaging materials where not needed. Visit this page to learn more on packing with care.

Step 3: Navigating customs clearance

The customs clearance process can be one of the most challenging aspects of international shipping.

In both Japan and the US, the process involves stringent checks to ensure all types of shipped goods comply with local laws and regulations. Being aware of the relevant governing bodies and specific regulatory documents for different categories of goods can help to facilitate a smooth customs clearance process. 

Industry tips when shipping to the US

AUTOPARTS AND AUTOMOBILES

The US is the largest market for Japanese automobile parts exports, as Japan is renowned for its high-quality automobiles and auto parts. The customs clearance process for these items typically involves inspections to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

There is a wide range of automotive parts, including engines, transmissions, electrical components, suspension parts, and brake systems. Recently, batteries and motors for electric and hybrid vehicles have also become popular export items. When exporting, it is necessary to clear safety and environmental standards at customs, and inspections by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Transportation (DOT) are required.

Speed and efficiency of car parts export is essential to the industry. Many auto manufacturers choose air transport as it allows them to deliver parts quickly without disrupting the production process, which greatly contributes to reducing manufacturing and operating costs.

Example items: Cars, motorcycles, engine parts, exhaust systems

Common documentation:

• US emissions certification: To prove that the vehicle complies with US emissions standards.
• Recognised vehicle safety certification: To prove that the vehicle being imported meets US safety standards.

ELECTRONICS

In the US, Japan's advanced electronic devices are also highly regarded due to their quality. In order to export to the US, it is essential to meet the standards of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In addition, while it is not compulsory to obtain UL certification², it is effective for ensuring the safety and reliability of products.

Furthermore, it is important to understand the types of customs clearance procedures and the limits for import duties and taxes for various types of goods. Learn more about the US market in our country guide.

Example items: Cameras, televisions, computers, and mobile phones. 

Common Documentation: FCC Compliance Certificate

AGRICULTURAL, FORESTRY AND MARINE PRODUCTS, INCLUDING FOOD

The amount of agricultural, forestry and marine products and food exported from Japan to the United States is increasing year on year, and in 2023 it exceeded 200 billion yen³, reaching a record high. In particular, demand for green tea is increasing against the backdrop of the growing health consciousness. In addition, due to the recovery of demand for eating out associated with the increase in Japanese restaurants, demand for “sauce mixed seasonings” such as Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, dressings and yakiniku sauce is also increasing.

When exporting agricultural, forestry and fishery products and food to the US, it is necessary to understand various regulations and duties. These include quarantine measures, food hygiene safety standards, regulations on pesticides, antibiotics and additives, containers and labeling, as well as sales and taxes. For agricultural products, for example, emphasis is placed on preventing pests and disease and food safety standards, and the necessary procedures are carried out under the supervision of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Example items: Fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and meat products, dairy products, and grains. 

Common Documentation:

• Phytosanitary Certificates: Required for plants and plant products to certify that they are free from pests and diseases.
• Health Certificates: Required for meat, dairy, and other food products to certify that they meet health and safety standards. Issued by Japanese authorities and inspected by US authorities upon arrival.

PHARMACEUTICALS AND MEDICAL DEVICES

Pharmaceuticals and medical devices must meet strict hygiene and safety standards, and approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is required for export. The definition of medical devices in the US is said to be broader than in Japan, with some products that are categorized as health goods or beauty products in Japan classified as medical devices in the US. Whether or not a product is classified as a medical device depends on its intended use, so for example, ear picks and toothbrushes may also be classified as medical devices in some cases.

If you are exporting and selling products that fall under the category of medical devices in the US, you will need to complete a number of applications and registration procedures. Products are further classified into classes, and different procedures are required for each, but after FDA approval, all products will proceed to “medical device facility registration”.

In addition, when exporting medical devices to the US, you are required to appoint one representative who is either a US resident or has a local office. There are also many other points to note, such as the requirement to regularly renew facility registration and pay annual registration fees.

Example items: Prescription drugs, surgical instruments, and diagnostic equipment

Common Documentation:

• FDA Approval/Registration: Proof that the pharmaceutical or medical device is approved by the FDA.
• Health Certificate: Certification from Japanese authorities regarding the safety and compliance of the product.

Learn more about shipping to the USA

Shipping to the United States involves navigating a complex web of requirements, including Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), customs procedures, and import duties. To help you master the intricacies of international shipping, including compliance with US-Japan Trade Agreements, accurate customs documentation, and efficient handling of import duties, refer to our comprehensive Guide on Exporting to the USA. This detailed guide also provides consumer insights and trends to help you make the most of the vast business opportunities in the West.

Find the right shipping solutions with international logistics experts at DHL Express

Opting for DHL Express means entrusting your shipments to a global leader in logistics, renowned for its commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction. With DHL Express, you gain peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of your shipping process is managed with precision and care.

Here are some tools you might find useful for your business:

• My Global Trade Service (MyGTS) is a free online portal for international trade. You can search for Harmonized System (HS) codes, calculate various costs including customs duties, and check restrictions and prohibitions for customs clearance in each country. You can also calculate estimated landing costs for any country, so you can estimate the total cost of shipping and support the optimization of your pricing strategy.
• The DHL's e-commerce country guides are full of tips for businesses to enter global markets and appeal to local consumers.
• You can choose from a wide range of options, from shipping to payment methods and receiving packages, according to your budget and delivery requirements, by utilizing our extensive logistics network.

With the proper preparation, knowledge of customs regulations, and a reliable shipping partner like DHL Express, take the bold step to expand your business globally. Consider opening a business account today to streamline your shipping processes and ensure your goods move smoothly across borders.