Export Documentation

Export Documentation for Japan: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from Japan: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures. Customs authority: Japan Customs.

Country
Japan
Customs authority
Japan Customs
Trading bloc
CPTPP, RCEP
Currency
JPY
Estimated clearance
Same day to 3 days for standard shipments

Import declaration through NACCS system

Prior notification for food products

PSE/S-Mark compliance for electrical products

JIS standards may apply

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): JPY or origin currency values
  • Packing List (required): Detailed package information
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Transport document
  • Import Declaration (required): Filed via NACCS
  • Arrival Notice (required): From shipping line

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: For EPA/FTA preferential rates Required for CPTPP, RCEP benefits
  • PSE/S-Mark Certification: For electrical products Mandatory for covered products
  • Food Sanitation Certificate: For food imports Prior notification required
  • Plant Quarantine Certificate: For plant products MAFF inspection
  • Radio Law Certification: For wireless devices TELEC certification

Special certificates

  • PSE Mark: applies to Electrical products, issued by Registered conformity bodies.
  • S-Mark: applies to Consumer products, issued by S-Mark certification bodies.
  • JIS Mark: applies to Industrial products, issued by JSA accredited bodies.
  • TELEC: applies to Radio/wireless equipment, issued by TELEC.

Customs procedures

  • NACCS electronic filing
  • AEO simplified procedures
  • Pre-arrival examination available
  • Duty payment by month-end

Restricted goods

  • Food products (food sanitation law)
  • Medicines (PMDA approval)
  • Cosmetics (notification required)
  • Radio equipment (TELEC)
  • Electrical products (PSE law)

Prohibited goods

  • Narcotics and stimulants
  • Firearms and swords
  • Counterfeit currency
  • Obscene materials
  • Products infringing intellectual property

Tips

  • NACCS is mandatory - work with licensed customs broker
  • PSE certification needed before importing electrical goods
  • Japanese labeling requirements are strict
  • Food imports require prior notification and testing
  • Consider bonded warehouse for samples/testing

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Frequently asked questions

What is the NACCS system?

NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System) is Japan's electronic customs clearance system. All import declarations must be filed through NACCS.

Do I need PSE certification for all electrical products?

PSE (Product Safety Electrical Appliances) certification is mandatory for designated electrical products sold in Japan. Two categories exist: specific products require third-party testing, others allow self-certification.

How do I import food products to Japan?

Food imports require prior notification to MHLW, compliance with Food Sanitation Law, and possible inspection. First-time imports often require laboratory testing.