The global demand for Japanese products is on the rise, and many people in the UK and USA are now looking to import directly from Japan. However, navigating the logistics of international shipping can be tricky. This guide provides a straightforward approach to help you understand how to import from Japan to UK and handle shipping from Japan to USA, ensuring a seamless process for any first-time importer.
1. How Long Does It Take To Import From Japan To UK?
Shipping times are primarily affected by the chosen shipping method. Here are the standard timelines for importing goods from Japan to the UK:
By air
With this option, express services take 3 to 7 days, while standard air freight can take 7 to 10 days. Air shipping also speeds up the process by bypassing multiple customs checks and paperwork.
By sea
This method is less expensive but slower, taking anywhere from 38 to 42 days for sea transport, depending on the shipping route and transshipment locations. Cargo from Japan to the UK may be routed through Singapore, a key port in the region.
Container ships on their way from Japan to Europe make various stops, including ports like Hamburg and Rotterdam, while passing through the Suez Canal. Before reaching Southampton in the UK, they dock at several European ports. So, to estimate the delivery time from Japan to the UK, you should account for an extra two to three weeks to the sailing time.
Multimodal transport
This mixed sea and rail transport method cuts transit times down to about 28 days. The combination of transport modes improves efficiency, offering a quicker alternative to traditional ocean freight alone. By incorporating rail into the journey, the shipping process is expedited, while still benefiting from the lower costs of sea shipping.
2. How Much Time Does Shipping from Japan to the USA Usually Take?
Shipping from Japan to USA is primarily done through either airfreight or ocean freight, with ocean freight being the most commonly chosen method. It provides a more budget-friendly way to transport both small and large loads, especially when set against the higher costs of airfreight.
By sea
It generally takes 15 to 20 days for goods shipped from Japan to reach the West Coast in the USA, whereas shipments to the East Coast typically take around 25 to 30 days. Major ports such as Tokyo, Nagoya, Yokohama, Chiba, and Aichi are strategically located with easy access to Japan’s capital.
It’s no secret that there is a worldwide shortage of shipping containers, and this issue is worsened by delays from labor shortages and port congestion, especially at major ports in North America.
Therefore, a noticeable delay is likely. Many shipments heading to the United States are encountering delays of between one and a half to two months or more. This highlights that estimated delivery times are approximate and should not be relied upon for exact timing. Shipping durations from Japan to the US are subject to several variables, including: severe weather and catastrophes, political turbulence, error in the paperwork, etc.
By air
When everything is properly arranged, shipping by air from Japan to the USA generally takes about 8 to 12 days. Still, delivery times can differ from one carrier to another. These differences are shown in the table below:
| Carriers | Weight | Shipping time |
| EMS | <= 1 kg | 3 to 4 days |
| Japan Post’s airmail service | <=1 kg | 5 to 8 days |
| Japan Post’s surface mail service | <=1 kg | 2 to 3 months |
Shipping from Japan to USA is done through either airfreight or ocean freight
3. 5 Essential Steps To Import From Japan To The Uk & Handle Shipping From Japan To The USA
Although shipping times may differ, the process of importing from Japan to the UK or USA is similar. Whether you are shipping products from Japan for personal or commercial purposes, this guide will help you avoid typical errors and ensure your items are delivered safely and punctually. Here are 5 steps to make shipping from Japan to the UK or USA easy with Janbox:
Step 1 – Find an exporter
Japanese products are undeniably high quality, but the real question is, will they stay that way when they arrive in the UK or USA, or could they be accompanied by fake labels? Many businesses put profits ahead of product quality for their customers. This is what makes Japanese products so prized, but to secure the best, it’s essential to identify reputable distribution partners.
Janbox is one of the platforms that can help. They offer a full suite of services, including purchasing, warehousing, packaging, and shipping, making the import process much easier. With a deep understanding of the Japanese market, Janbox ensures you access premium-quality products and reliable suppliers.
Janbox will also take care of all the paperwork and customs clearance, which minimizes the risk of delays and regulatory issues. Offering competitive shipping prices and various shipping options, Janbox ensures that delivery to the UK and USA is both affordable and prompt. If you’re uncertain about your product choices, their staff is ready to assist you in finding the best fit for your needs.
Step 2 – Provide the product details to Janbox
To ship or import from Japan to UK or the USA with Janbox, you’ll need to supply comprehensive details about the products you intend to purchase. Begin by stating the exact name of each product as listed on the website you’re buying from. This allows Janbox to identify and secure the correct items for you.
Include the required quantity for each product. If the items are available in different colors, sizes, or styles, remember to indicate these specifics in the relevant fields. This ensures that Janbox can process your order with accuracy and helps avoid any miscommunications.
In addition to providing the required details, use the comments section to provide any extra information or special requests for your order. This might include specific packaging needs, preferred delivery methods, or any other product-related information that could assist in processing your order correctly.
Make sure to thoroughly check all the details you’ve provided before finalizing your request. Precise and full information helps avoid delays and ensures that the products you receive align with your expectations.
Step 3 – Decide on your preferred way to pay
To import products from Japan to the UK or the USA, full payment is necessary. Begin with a deposit to secure your order, and then pick one of the two payment options offered:
- Method 1: Use your Janbox wallet to make payments by depositing yen into it, where each yen equals one point. When you select this method, Janbox will deduct the points required for your purchase. Any remaining points will be credited toward your next order.
- Method 2: You can choose to pay with a debit/credit card or PayPal. Transfer the required amount to Janbox based on the value of your order, and once the payment is finalized, your order will be confirmed.
Step 4 – Decide on the mode of transport for goods
Once the earlier steps are complete, Janbox will ship your products and store them securely in their warehouse. At this point, you can choose delivery option that works best for you:
- Air Freight: This is the quickest form of air freight transport. For urgent orders, it’s the most budget-friendly option. It’s not just fast but also secure, with the chances of items being lost at international airports being very rare.
- Sea Freight: Opting for this shipping method can save you money when bringing goods from Japan to the UK or the USA. Be cautious, though, as the numerous invoices and paperwork the sender needs to provide can cause delays.
Step 5 – Wait until the products are at the warehouse, then collect your order
Janbox can send your items directly from Japan to your address if you’re in the UK or the USA. Every shipment is provided with a tracking number, which you can use to check the status of your order on Janbox website. Once you pay the international shipping fee, your items will be delivered to you.
Janbox is a reliable platforms that helps to import from Japan to UK and US
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to import from Japan to UK and handle shipping from Japan to USA is essential for a hassle-free experience. By using Janbox’s all-in-one platform, you can handle everything from selecting products to managing shipping and customs. With Janbox, you can be confident that your purchases will arrive on time and in perfect condition.
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