How to send international mail from japan
Sending international mail from Japan can be a bit more complex than sending mail within Japan, but it's still a relatively straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you send international mail from Japan:
Step 1: Prepare Your Mail
- Make sure your mail is properly addressed with the recipient's name, address, and country.
- Use a sturdy envelope or package that can withstand international shipping.
- Ensure your mail is properly packaged and protected to prevent damage during transit.
Step 2: Choose a Shipping Method
- Japan Post (, Nihon Yūbin) is the primary postal service in Japan and offers various international shipping options, including:
- Airmail (, Kōkū Yūbin): Fast and reliable, but more expensive.
- Surface Mail (, Chikyu Yūbin): Slower and cheaper, but still reliable.
- EMS (, EMS): Express Mail Service, which is fast and trackable.
- Private courier services like UPS, FedEx, and DHL also operate in Japan and offer international shipping options.
Step 3: Determine the Weight and Size of Your Mail
- Weigh your mail to determine the correct postage.
- Measure the length, width, and height of your mail to determine the correct size.
Step 4: Purchase Postage
- You can purchase postage at a Japan Post office or online.
- Make sure to purchase the correct postage for your mail, as underpaying can result in delays or additional fees.
Step 5: Fill Out the Customs Declaration
- If you're sending a package that contains goods worth ¥5,000 or more, or if you're sending a package that contains restricted or prohibited items, you'll need to fill out a customs declaration form.
- You can obtain a customs declaration form at a Japan Post office or online.
Step 6: Attach the Customs Declaration and Postage
- Attach the customs declaration form to the outside of your mail.
- Attach the postage to the outside of your mail.
Step 7: Send Your Mail
- Take your mail to a Japan Post office or a private courier service office.
- Hand over your mail to the postal staff or courier representative.
- Make sure to keep a record of your tracking number or receipt, as this will help you track your mail.
Additional Tips
- Make sure to check the Japan Post website or the website of your chosen courier service for any specific regulations or restrictions on sending mail to certain countries.
- Consider purchasing insurance for your mail, especially if it contains valuable or fragile items.
- Be aware that customs duties and taxes may apply to your mail when it arrives at its destination.
By following these steps, you should be able to send international mail from Japan successfully. Happy mailing!