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.
Important notice:
ePacket shipments are not insured and do not include delivery in person or signature confirmation.
Parcels may be delivered in front of the door.
We strongly recommend using this service only if you are fully aware of the associated risks.
If this shipping method is selected, we may not be able to provide a full refund in case of loss.
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.
FedEx (from January 2026)
Starting from January, FedEx will be added as an available shipping option for selected destinations. Details regarding availability, pricing, and delivery conditions will be provided at checkout when applicable.
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.
IMPORTANT – USA Shipping Notice (from January 1st 2026):
From January 1st 2026, shipments to the United States by DHL and FedEx will be processed only using prepaid tariffs.
The DDU option (unpaid tariffs) will be available exclusively to wholesaler accounts.
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 website of the shipping company.
If you believe that your parcel has been lost, please contact us as soon as possible to request an investigation. Please note that claims with Japan Post can only be opened within 6 months from the shipping date. After this period, we will not be able to assist with lost shipments. Additionally, we will not open a claim if the expected delivery time has not yet passed.
IMPORTANT – ePacket:
ePacket shipments are not insured and do not include signature or in-person delivery.
In case of loss, investigations may be limited depending on the destination country and carrier response.
As a result, full refunds cannot be guaranteed if this shipping method is selected.
IMPORTANT – Surface Mail:
Surface Mail has significantly longer delivery times.
Inquiries regarding Surface Mail shipments will only be addressed if the parcel was shipped
at least 4 months prior to the inquiry 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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