Shipment Information
1. About Shipping Methods
Available Shipping Methods
Below is a list of all shipping methods currently offered by Japan Post and Anime Export. Please note that all shipping methods include a tracking number<.
IMPORTANT:
We may not be able to offer all shipping methods for every destination.
Availability depends on the destination country, as well as size and weight restrictions.
The most suitable shipping options will always be proposed based on your location and your parcel.
Availability by country and size restrictions can be checked
here
(Japanese only).
Airmail
Airmail is a cost-effective and reliable shipping method for sending packages from Japan worldwide. It offers a good balance between speed and affordability, with delivery times typically ranging from 5 to 14 business days, depending on the destination. This method is suitable for smaller and lighter packages.
Airmail Small Packet (until December 2025)
Airmail Small Packet is a budget-friendly option for lightweight parcels weighing up to 2 kg. Delivery times are similar to standard airmail (approximately 5 to 14 business days).
Important notice: Airmail Small Packet will be discontinued by Japan Post from January 2026.
ePacket (from January 2026)
ePacket will replace Airmail Small Packet starting from January 2026. The price and delivery time remain the same as Small Packet (approximately 5 to 14 business days), and tracking is included.
Please note:
ePacket deliveries do not include a signature upon delivery.
Parcels may be delivered in front of the door.
We strongly recommend monitoring the tracking number carefully and contacting your local post office
in advance to arrange delivery and avoid missing your parcel.
Surface Mail
Surface Mail is the most economical shipping method offered by Japan Post. It is suitable for heavy or bulky items when delivery speed is not critical. Delivery times typically range from 3 to 4 months<.
EMS (Express Mail Service)
EMS is Japan Post’s express service, offering fast and secure delivery to over 120 countries. Delivery times usually range from 2 to 7 business days. This service is recommended for time-sensitive or high-value items and includes tracking and insurance options.
DHL
In collaboration with Anime Export, DHL provides international express shipping with a strong focus on speed and reliability. Door-to-door delivery is typically completed within 1 to 4 business days for major destinations.
Please note: We are not able to ship using private carriers other than DHL.
Domestic Shipments (Japan)
For deliveries within Japan, we will calculate and provide the most suitable shipping option based on the size and weight of your parcel.
IMPORTANT – Domestic Tax Notice:
For shipments within Japan, an additional 10% consumption tax on the product price is required,
in accordance with Japanese regulations.
Only forwarding companies are exempt from this rule.
Hotels and temporary accommodations are not exempt.
We reserve the right to request further information regarding the delivery address.
2. Inquiry about a shipped parcel
After we confirm the shipment, your parcel can be tracked from the Japan Post website, DHL Express website or the official site of the shipping company.
If you believe that your parcel has been lost, please contact us as soon as possible to request an investigation. It's important to note that we can only open a claim with Japan Post within 6 months from the shipping date. Unfortunately, if this period has passed, we will not be able to assist with lost shipments. Additionally, please be aware that we will not open a claim if the expected delivery time has not yet passed. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in these matters.
IMPORTANT: please note that surface mail has longer delivery times. We advise considering this before choosing this method. Inquiries about surface mail parcels will only be addressed if the parcels was shipped at least 4 months before the inquery date. Thank you for your understanding.
3. About shipping address
For your convenience, our shipping process uses the address registered with Anime Export at the time of your shipment request as the default shipping address, rather than the address associated with your PayPal account at the time of payment. To ensure a smooth and timely delivery, it is essential that the address registered with Anime Export matches the address on your PayPal account. Please take a moment to verify that both addresses are identical to avoid any delays or the risk of your shipment being sent to an incorrect address.
Finally, please ensure that a valid phone number is registered with your shipping address. The phone number must be from the same country as the address. Shipments with missing or invalid phone numbers will be subject to delays. If you need to make any changes to your shipping address, please contact us before sending payment for the shipment. This will help us ensure that your shipment is processed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
With these precautions in mind, rest assured that your parcel will be delivered safely to your doorstep. We hope you had a pleasant experience with AE and that our services met your expectations. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Last revision: 2025-12-18
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