The Importance of the Figure Box｜Thorough Explanation of Damage Assessment Criteria and Its Impact on Purchase Value

In figure collecting, the condition of the box is as important as the figure itself. Some beginners think, "It's okay to throw away the box," but in reality, the presence and condition of the box can affect the purchase price by more than 50%. This article thoroughly explains the specific impact of the box on the value of figures, the A/B/C rank damage assessment criteria, how to distinguish unopened items, and the photo check points to confirm before purchasing, providing practical knowledge to maintain collection value. In particular, when importing figures from overseas, we will also explain in detail how to evaluate the risk of box damage during shipping and what measures should be taken.

The Impact of the Figure Box on Purchase Price

The figure box is not just packaging material; it is an important element that constitutes the product's value. In the purchase market, the presence and condition of the box directly affect the appraisal amount, and if there is no box, the purchase price drops significantly. Here, we will take a closer look at the specific impact of the box on the purchase price and why it is so highly valued.

Purchase Price of Figures Without Boxes Drops Below 50%

The purchase price of figures without boxes generally drops to 50% or less compared to those with boxes. For example, a figure appraised at 10,000 yen with a box may drop to below 5,000 yen without one. This price difference is even more pronounced for premium figures and limited editions from popular manufacturers.

Looking at actual purchase cases, a Good Smile Company's "Nendoroid" series with a box is bought for 8,000 yen, while the same product without a box drops to around 3,000 to 4,000 yen. For scale figures from Alter or Max Factory, it is not uncommon for a figure appraised at 30,000 yen with a box to drop below 15,000 yen without one.

The reason for this significant price difference is that without a box, the resale value of the product decreases dramatically. Purchase companies need to resell the items they acquire, so figures without boxes become difficult to sell, resulting in lower purchase prices.

Why Is the Box So Important? Three Reasons

There are three main reasons why the box greatly affects the value of figures.

First, the box serves as proof of the product's authenticity. Genuine boxes have copyright seals and manufacturer logos printed on them, which serve as proof that the item is real. When purchasing imported or second-hand items, having the box significantly reduces the risk of counterfeit products.

Second, the box provides protection for the figure during storage and transportation. Figures have delicate parts and paint, so storing them without a box increases the risk of deterioration from dust and sunlight, as well as physical damage. By storing them in their original boxes, you can protect the figures from these damages.

Third, many collectors value "complete condition." Having the box, instructions, blister pack, and accessories all together indicates the completeness of the collection item. This emphasis on completeness is the biggest factor that creates price differences based on the presence or absence of a box.

The Importance of Blister Packs and Accessories

The blister pack (a transparent plastic protective case) stored inside the box also plays an important role in maintaining the value of the figure. The blister secures the figure inside the box, protecting it from shocks during transport, and also protects it from dust and direct contact when displayed.

If the blister is missing, the appraisal amount may be reduced by about 10-15% even if the box is present. If the blister is damaged while still unopened, it may be treated almost the same as if it were opened. Missing accessories (replacement parts, bases, instructions, etc.) can also lead to a reduction of a few percent to 10% per item.

Box Damage Levels and Assessment Criteria (A/B/C Rank)

In the purchase industry, A/B/C rank damage assessment criteria are used to objectively evaluate the condition of the box. By understanding these criteria, you can determine a fair price when buying or selling. Here, we will explain the specific criteria for each rank and their impact on purchase prices in detail.

A Rank (Like New) Criteria

A Rank (Like New) refers to a condition that is almost like new. Specifically, it means that there are no dents in the corners of the box, no noticeable scratches or fading on the printed surfaces, and minimal traces of opening tape. Minor scratches or small dot-like stains are acceptable, but there should be no damage that is clearly visible from a distance.

If it is an A-rank box, there is almost no impact on the purchase price. For unopened items, a full-price appraisal can be expected, and even if opened, if the condition of the box is good, the reduction will be minimized. Maintaining an A-rank box condition is directly linked to preserving asset value when purchasing for collector or investment purposes.

To maintain an A-rank, it is important to establish an appropriate storage environment from the time of purchase. Avoid direct sunlight, store in a low-humidity place, and be careful not to unevenly distribute weight when stacking boxes.

B Rank (Good Condition) Criteria

B rank (good condition) refers to items that have minor damage but are overall in good condition. Specifically, this includes light dents or creases on the corners of the box, small scratches or scuffs on the sides, multiple tape marks from opening, and slight fading or dirt on the printed surface.

In the case of B rank, the purchase price is usually reduced by about 10-20%. For example, if a figure appraises at 10,000 yen for A rank, it would be around 8,000 to 9,000 yen for B rank. This condition is relatively common in the second-hand market, and many collectors consider it to be "within acceptable limits."

B rank boxes are often seen in products that have undergone international shipping or long-term storage. Damage at this level can occur if the packaging during shipping was insufficient or if the box was moved multiple times during relocations. Even if the item is B rank at the time of purchase, preventing further deterioration can help maintain its value.

C Rank (Average Condition) Criteria

C rank (average condition) refers to items that have clear damage in multiple areas. Specifically, this includes large dents on the corners of the box, tears or holes on the sides, extensive sun damage or fading on the printed surface, numerous tape marks with adhesive residue remaining, and overall warping or deformation.

In the case of C rank, the purchase price is generally reduced by about 30-40%. If a figure appraises at 10,000 yen for A rank, it would be around 6,000 to 7,000 yen for C rank. Some purchase companies may consider the box condition to be poor and may impose even greater reductions or refuse to buy.

Even with a C rank box, if the figure itself is in excellent condition, it will retain some value, but the appeal for resale will be significantly diminished, leading to a decrease in market value. When choosing a C rank product at the time of purchase, it is necessary to carefully assess whether the price is commensurate with its condition.

D Rank and Below (May Not Be Treated as Having a Box)

D rank and below refers to a state where the box has lost its original shape, has significant damage or missing parts, or has irreparable damage, resulting in almost no practical value. Specifically, this includes boxes that are severely torn with parts missing, water damage or significant mold growth, completely damaged flaps, and boxes that are crushed and have lost their three-dimensional shape.

Boxes rated D rank or below are likely to be treated as "boxless" at the time of purchase, resulting in appraisals equivalent to that of a boxless item. In this case, as mentioned earlier, the purchase price drops below 50%.

However, in the case of extremely rare vintage figures or discontinued products, even if the box is rated D rank or below, the mere fact that "the box is still somewhat intact" may result in a slight positive appraisal. However, this is an exceptional case, and it should generally be considered that D rank or below boxes have no asset value.

Important Checkpoints for Damage Assessment

To accurately assess box damage, it is necessary to focus on specific areas. The most important are the four corners of the box. The corners are prone to damage from stacking or impact during shipping, making them areas where damage tends to concentrate. Check for dents, creases, or tears.

Next, check the condition of the flap (the opening and closing part of the box). The flap is a part that undergoes repeated tape application and removal, making it susceptible to tears and bends. If the flap is damaged, the protective function of the box is significantly reduced.

Finally, check the condition of the printed surface. Look for fading due to sun exposure, peeling of the print due to rubbing, and stains or discoloration from water damage. The printed surface is the "face" of the product, and damage here directly affects its visual value.

How to Distinguish Between Unopened and Opened Items

The difference between unopened and opened items has a very significant impact on the purchase price and market value of figures. Unopened items are generally traded at prices about 20-30% higher, but there is also the risk of "re-sealing" by malicious sellers. Here, we will explain specific methods to distinguish true unopened items.

How to Check the Sealing Sticker

The manufacturer's genuine seal is the most reliable indicator for distinguishing unopened items. Many Japanese-made figures have transparent or white seals affixed to the opening part of the box. These seals may have the manufacturer's logo or text such as "SEALED" or "UNOPENED" printed on them.

To confirm that the seal is unopened, check for points such as whether the edges of the seal are not lifted, if there are no signs of peeling, and if there are no bubbles or distortions on the surface of the seal. Genuine seals are applied uniformly by machines, so if they have been reapplied manually, subtle distortions or bubbles may occur.

Additionally, the adhesive strength of the seal is also an important factor for judgment. In the case of unopened items that have been stored for a long time, the adhesive strength of the seal may weaken due to aging. Conversely, seals that have been applied recently may be too strong, which suggests the possibility of resealing.

If multiple seals are affixed or if another tape is placed over the seal, there is a higher likelihood of resealing, so caution is necessary. It is recommended to request detailed photos of the seal from the seller before purchasing and to check from multiple angles.

Position and Condition of the Copyright Seal

The copyright seal (copyright sticker) is a seal that proves the item is genuine, and it is usually affixed to a specific position on the bottom or side of the box. This seal contains information such as the name of the copyright holder, the country of manufacture, and the year of manufacture.

The copyright seal of genuine products is affixed in a predetermined position for each manufacturer. For example, products from Good Smile Company are placed in the lower left corner of the bottom of the box, while products from Bandai Spirits are centered on the bottom, with the arrangement differing by manufacturer. Knowing this arrangement allows you to distinguish between counterfeit and non-genuine products.

If there are signs that the copyright seal has been peeled off, the likelihood of it being opened increases. Additionally, if another seal is placed over the copyright seal or if the copyright seal is torn, this serves as evidence that it has been opened or inspected in the past.

The print quality of the copyright seal is also a point to check. Genuine copyright seals are printed with high quality, and there should be no blurriness in the text or color misalignment.

Judging from the Condition of the Tape

The condition of the tape sealing the box is an important clue for distinguishing unopened items. There are several clear differences between the original tape (factory shipping tape) and tape that has been applied later.

The original tape is generally transparent and applied mechanically with a uniform width. The edges of the tape are neat, and it is accurately placed in the center of the box. On the other hand, the tape applied later may have an uneven width, be applied carelessly, or have multiple layers of tape overlapping.

The aging of the tape can also be a factor for judgment. Tape on products that have been stored for a long time may show yellowing or a decrease in adhesive strength. Conversely, if the tape is too new for an old product, there may be a possibility of resealing.

It is also important to check the surface of the box under the tape. If there are traces of tape being removed (residue from the adhesive, peeling of the print, etc.), this serves as evidence that it has been opened in the past. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check the way the tape is applied and its condition in detail through photos.

Cases Where Caution is Needed Even if Unopened

Even if an item is unopened, it does not mean that everything is in good condition. There are several cases to be cautious about.

First is the risk of "bottom breakage." In the case of unopened items that have been stored for a long time, the tape or glue at the bottom of the box may deteriorate, causing the bottom to break. This risk is particularly high for heavy scale figures. If bottom breakage occurs, there is a possibility that the figure itself may fall and get damaged.

Second is the damage to the internal blister pack. Even if unopened, the blister pack inside the box may be damaged due to shocks during shipping or pressure during storage. If the blister is damaged, the figure may move inside the box, leading to paint chipping or part breakage. It is recommended to lightly shake the box before purchasing to check for any sounds of movement inside.

Photo Checkpoints to Confirm Before Purchase

When purchasing figures online, it is very important to check the condition through photos since you cannot physically inspect the item. Especially for imports from overseas, accurately understanding the condition of the box in advance is key to avoiding troubles. Here, we will explain in detail the photo angles to request from the seller and the points to check.

Six Essential Photo Angles

To accurately assess the condition of the box, at least six angles of photos are necessary.

①Front photo of the entire box: This is a photo showing the entire front of the box (the side where the main visual of the product is printed). In this photo, you can check the printing condition, overall fading or sun damage, and whether there are any major damages. Request a photo where the lighting is even and the entire box is captured without distortion.

②Close-up photos of the corners: These are close-up photos of each of the four corners of the box. You can check in detail the areas where damage is most likely to occur, such as corner crushes, dents, and tears. It is ideal to request photos of all four corners.

③Photos of the sides and top/bottom: These are photos of the sides (left and right), top, and bottom of the box. Since these surfaces cannot be checked in the front photo, it is necessary to request separate shots. The bottom surface is particularly important for checking the risk of bottom breakage and the condition of the tape.

④Detailed photos of the flap: These are photos to check the condition of the opening and closing part of the box (the flap). You can check for tears, folds, and the presence of tape marks on the flap. Having photos of the flap in both a completely closed state and a slightly open state allows for a more accurate assessment.

⑤Photo of the seal: For unopened items, a detailed photo of the seal is essential to check its condition. You will check if the edges of the seal are not lifted, if there are no signs of it being peeled off, and if multiple seals are not stacked on top of each other. If possible, request photos of the seal from multiple angles.

⑥Photo of the copyright seal: This is a photo to check the position, condition, and printed content of the copyright seal. You can verify if the copyright seal is in the correct position, if there are no signs of it being peeled off, and if the printing is clear.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Since there is information that cannot be discerned from photos alone, it is also important to ask the seller directly.

First, ask about the details of the box damage. "Are there any small scratches or scuffs that are not visible in the photos?" "Is there any damage or dirt on the inside of the box?" Inquire about areas that may be difficult to see in the photos.

Next, confirm the storage environment. "Was it stored in a place exposed to direct sunlight?" "Was it stored in a humid place (like a basement or closet)?" "Was it in an environment with pets or cigarette smoke?" Check environmental factors that could affect the condition of the box.

Also, the purchase date and location are important information. By asking, "When and where was it purchased?" you can infer the age of the product and the likelihood of it being genuine. Especially for overseas purchases, confirming whether the source is an authorized retailer can reduce the risk of counterfeit products.

Finally, clearly confirm the status and number of openings. "Is it unopened, or has it been opened?" "If it has been opened, how many times has it been opened?" Ask these questions to accurately understand the condition of the product.

Risks That Cannot Be Determined by Photos

There are limitations to verification through photos, and some risks cannot be understood until the actual item is checked.

First, the color of the actual item. Due to lighting at the time of shooting or image processing, the color may differ from the actual item. In particular, the degree of sun damage or fading is often difficult to judge accurately from photos.

Second, fine scratches or scuffs. Small scratches or scuffs may not appear due to the resolution of the photo or the shooting angle. When you hold the actual item, you may discover fine damages that were not visible in the photos.

Third, odors. Odors such as cigarette smoke, mold, or pet smells cannot be confirmed at all through photos. However, odors can significantly affect the value of the product, so it is recommended to ask the seller about the presence of any odors if possible.

While it is difficult to completely avoid these risks, purchasing from sellers with clear return and refund policies can help mitigate the risks.

Risk Assessment of Box Damage During International Shipping

When importing figures from overseas, the risk of box damage during shipping is higher than with domestic shipping. Especially with international shipping, packages may be handled roughly as they go through multiple carriers.

The main risks of box damage during international shipping include corner crushes, side dents, and flap tears. Statistically, the probability of some form of box damage occurring during international shipping is said to be around 20-30%.

To mitigate this risk, first, the choice of shipping carrier is important. Major international shipping companies like DHL and FedEx generally handle packages with care and have robust tracking systems.

Next, utilize insurance. When purchasing high-value figures, enrolling in shipping insurance allows for compensation in case of damage. The insurance premium is typically a few percent of the product price, but it is a necessary measure for high-value items.

Additionally, requesting the seller to use double packaging is effective. By wrapping the figure's box in bubble wrap or other cushioning materials and placing it in an outer box for shipping, the risk of box damage can be significantly reduced.

Best Practices for Storing and Packing Boxes

To keep the figure's box in good condition for a long time, appropriate storage conditions and packing methods are essential. Here, we introduce practical techniques to maintain the condition of the box and protect its future resale value and collection worth.

Proper Storage Location and Environment for Boxes

When storing boxes for the long term, the most important thing to avoid is direct sunlight. UV rays can fade the printed surfaces of the box and degrade the paper quality. Avoid storing near windows or directly under lights, and choose a dark place or one with only indirect lighting.

Next, humidity management is crucial. If the humidity is too high, the box may become soggy or mold may develop. Conversely, if the humidity is too low, the paper can dry out and become brittle. The ideal humidity level is around 40-60%. Avoid damp basements or the back of closets, and choose a well-ventilated area.

Also, storing directly in cardboard boxes is a no-go. Cardboard easily absorbs moisture and is prone to insect infestations. Storing the figure's box inside a cardboard box increases the risk of moisture and pest damage. Instead, use plastic storage cases or dedicated figure storage shelves.

When stacking boxes for storage, pay attention to weight distribution. Place heavier figure boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes on top to avoid excessive weight on one spot. Additionally, keep the stacking height to about 3-4 layers to prevent crushing the boxes below.

Protecting Blister Packs

Blister packs (transparent plastic protective cases) play an important role in securing and protecting the figure itself within the box. Keeping the blister in good condition is also an important part of box management.

The most basic rule is to not remove the blister from the box. Once the blister is taken out, it becomes difficult to store it accurately again, increasing the risk of unnecessary damage to the box and blister. When viewing the figure, if possible, take it out with the blister and enjoy it while it remains stored within the blister.

For long-term storage, placing thin cushioning material around the blister can also be effective. Using air cushions or thin foam sheets can absorb external shocks and reduce the risk of blister damage.

Also, when returning an opened figure to the blister, check that the parts are in the correct position. If the parts are not stored correctly, the blister may not close properly, or the figure may be stressed and damaged.

Packing Techniques for Shipping

When selling or moving figures, the packing during shipping is the last line of defense for maintaining the box's condition. Proper packing can minimize box damage during transit.

The most important thing is double packaging. Instead of shipping the figure's box as is, first wrap the entire box in bubble wrap. It is recommended to wrap the bubble wrap at least twice, or three times for high-value items. Then, place it in a cardboard box that is slightly larger than the figure's box, filling any gaps with newspaper or cushioning material to secure it.

Next, reinforcing the corners is also effective. The four corners of the box are the most susceptible to damage, so placing cushioning material or thick cardboard at the corners before packing can significantly reduce the risk of corner crushing.

Additionally, it is important to place "Fragile" and "Handle with Care" labels or stamps on the outer box. This increases the likelihood that the shipping company will handle it with care.

Finally, don’t forget to utilize tracking services and insurance. When shipping high-value figures, always choose a shipping method that allows for tracking and consider getting insurance just in case.

Conclusion: Protecting the Value of Figures by Managing Box Condition

The figure's box is not just packaging; it is an important element that constitutes the product's value. The presence and condition of the box can affect the resale price by more than 50%, and detailed evaluations are made based on A/B/C rank damage assessment criteria. By understanding the differences between unopened and opened items, points to check before purchase, and appropriate storage and packing methods, you can maintain the asset value of your collection over the long term.

Three Key Principles for Box Management

Here are three key principles for properly managing figure boxes and maximizing collection value.

Rule 1: Thoroughly check the condition of the box when purchasing In online purchases, always check the six essential photo angles (front view, corners, sides/top and bottom, flap, seal, copyright seal) and ask the seller about the details of any damage, storage environment, and whether it has been opened. In the case of international shipping, it is important to consider the risk of box damage and request insurance or double packaging.

Rule 2: Store in an appropriate environment Avoid direct sunlight and maintain a storage environment with humidity between 40-60%. Avoid direct storage in cardboard boxes and use plastic storage cases instead. When stacking boxes, pay attention to weight distribution and limit the height to about 3-4 layers to prevent crushing of the boxes below. It is basic to keep blister packs in their boxes without removing them.

Rule 3: Manage with future resale in mind Even if there are no plans to sell now, consider the possibility of future buybacks or resales and maintain the boxes in good condition. Understand the criteria for A/B/C ranking and regularly check which rank your collection falls into. When shipping, use double packaging and reinforce the corners, and utilize tracking services and insurance to minimize the risk of box damage. By practicing these measures, you can preserve the asset value of your figures in the long term.