A Complete Guide to Purchasing Japanese Figures from Overseas | How to Distinguish Authentic Products, Shipping Costs, Customs Duties, and Storage Methods
Basic Knowledge to Know Before Purchasing Japanese Figures from Overseas
For those living abroad, acquiring Japanese figures is a great joy, but it also comes with various challenges. In this section, we will provide you with essential information to keep in mind before making a purchase.
Characteristics and Appeal of the Japanese Figure Market
The Japanese figure market boasts an unparalleled scale and quality in the world. Renowned manufacturers such as Good Smile Company, Max Factory, Alter, and Kotobukiya are supported by collectors worldwide for their intricate designs and high-quality painting. In particular, the Nendoroid and figma series are popular products that combine mobility and precision, enjoying high demand even overseas.
Japanese figures have strict copyright management, and authentic products always come with a copyright license sticker. This thorough quality control contributes to the trust in Japanese figures, while also giving rise to the problem of an expanding counterfeit market.
Main Challenges When Purchasing from Overseas
When purchasing figures from overseas, there are several barriers. First is the language issue. Many Japanese online shopping sites only support Japanese, and it is not uncommon for them to not accept international shipping.
Second is the risk of counterfeits. The more popular a figure is, the more likely it is to have counterfeits circulating in the market, especially on online marketplaces where it can be difficult to distinguish them. Third, there are issues with shipping costs and customs duties. In addition to shipping fees, customs duties and consumption taxes may be added, resulting in a final payment amount that can be unexpectedly high.
Finally, there is the risk of box damage due to long-distance transport. For collectors, the condition of the box is important, and a lack of box or box damage can significantly affect the buyback price.
Basic Flow from Purchase to Arrival
The basic flow of purchasing a figure starts with selecting where to buy. You can either use a Japanese online shopping site that supports international shipping or utilize a proxy service (purchase and forwarding service).
Next, confirm the authenticity of the product and finalize your order. Payment is typically made via credit card or PayPal. After placing the order, the product is packaged and shipped. You can choose from shipping carriers such as EMS, DHL, or FedEx, each varying in speed and cost. The time until arrival can range from about 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the shipping method and region.
7 Checkpoints to Distinguish Authentic Products from Counterfeits
When purchasing figures from overseas, the most important thing to be cautious about is not to end up with a counterfeit. Here are 7 specific checkpoints to help you distinguish between authentic products and counterfeits. For more detailed methods of identification, please refer to How to Distinguish Authentic Products from Counterfeits.
Check for Copyright License Stickers and Hologram Seals
The most reliable evidence of authenticity is the copyright license sticker. This is a seal affixed to the package as proof of permission obtained from the copyright holder. Japanese figure manufacturers always place this sticker in a prominent position.
Products from Good Smile Company use a unique hologram seal. This seal changes color depending on the angle, making it very difficult to counterfeit. The position of the seal is usually standardized on the side or bottom of the box, and if it is placed in an unnatural position, it should raise suspicion. Counterfeit seals often have rough printing and a dull hologram shine.
Check the JAN Code and Barcode
The JAN code (Japanese Article Number) is an important means of verifying authenticity. Scanning the JAN code printed on the package with a smartphone barcode reader app will display product information.
By cross-referencing the JAN code with official databases or collector sites like MyFigureCollection, you can confirm whether it is an authentic product. Counterfeits may have a missing JAN code or a code for a completely different product. Be cautious if the printing of the JAN code is unclear or if the barcode cannot be scanned.
Quality of Painting and Precision of Details
The most noticeable difference between authentic products and counterfeits is reflected in the quality of the painting. Japanese authentic manufacturers possess precise painting techniques, accurately reproducing gradients and fine patterns. Counterfeits often exhibit noticeable paint irregularities, with colors bleeding or areas left unpainted.
The printing of the face is particularly prone to discrepancies. If the position of the eyes is misaligned, the outline is unclear, or the color reproduction is inaccurate, there is a high possibility that it is a counterfeit. Additionally, the fit of the parts is also an important point. Genuine products have parts that fit perfectly together without gaps or unevenness, while counterfeits may have large gaps at the joints or visible distortions as if they were forcibly pushed together.
Checking the Logo on the Package and Base
The print quality of the package is an important factor in distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit products. Genuine product boxes have high-quality printing, with clear text and sharp images. Counterfeit boxes have rough printing, with colors that are either too light or too dark.
Inside the box or on the back of the base, the manufacturer's logo should always be engraved or affixed with a sticker. For Good Smile Company, it should say "©GOOD SMILE COMPANY," and for Max Factory, it should say "©Max Factory." If this logo is missing or unclear, it is advisable to suspect it is a counterfeit. Additionally, the base of genuine products is highly stable and can securely support the figure.
Comparison with Market Prices
An unusually low price is the most obvious sign of a counterfeit. Genuine figures have a certain price range, and popular or limited items may be traded above the retail price.
Check the market prices on reliable sites like MyFigureCollection, AmiAmi, or Surugaya, and be cautious of items being sold at significantly lower prices. In particular, prices below 50% of the retail price for brand new, unopened items are almost certainly counterfeit. Be wary of phrases like "bargain" or "defective." However, used items or items without boxes can also be traded cheaply in the legitimate second-hand market, so it is important to read the condition descriptions carefully.
Verifying the Seller's Reliability
Where you purchase from is also important. By buying from reliable official shops or highly rated sellers, you can significantly reduce the risk of counterfeits.
When purchasing from marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, always check the seller's ratings. Avoid sellers with few ratings, many negative reviews, or recently opened accounts. Additionally, be cautious of sellers whose product descriptions are vague or who only use official manufacturer images instead of actual photos of the item. Reliable online shopping sites will be explained in detail in the following section.
Options for Reliable Purchasing Methods
There are two main ways to purchase Japanese figures from overseas. One is to use Japanese online shopping sites that support international shipping, and the other is to use proxy services (agent purchasing and forwarding services). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the optimal choice varies depending on the product and situation. A detailed comparison is explained in Online Shopping Sites and Proxy Services.
Japanese Online Shopping Sites that Support International Shipping
Japanese online shopping sites that support international shipping are the simplest and safest purchasing method. Representative sites include AmiAmi, Solaris Japan, and Hobby Search.
AmiAmi is one of Japan's largest figure shopping sites, offering English support and a wealth of experience in international shipping. They have a wide range of products, from pre-orders to used items. Solaris Japan is a site specialized for overseas customers, fully English-supported, allowing PayPal payments, and offering a variety of shipping options. Prices are slightly higher, but the support system is a strong point.
Hobby Search also supports international shipping and has a particularly rich selection of used figures. The benefits of using these sites include high reliability with no worries about counterfeits, a simple and clear process from order to shipping, and secure packaging due to direct shipping from Japan.
Proxy Services (Agent Purchasing and Forwarding Services)
Proxy services are used when you want to purchase products from Japanese domestic sites that do not offer international shipping. Major services include ZenMarket, Sendico, FromJapan, and Neokyo.
ZenMarket features an easy-to-use interface and Japanese support, making it popular among beginners. The fees start at 300 yen for the product price, which is relatively reasonable. Sendico is a long-established proxy service that supports many sites, including Yahoo Auctions and Rakuten. FromJapan has clear fees and a longer storage period of 45 days.
The mechanism of the proxy service starts with registering for the service and sending the URL of the product you wish to purchase. The proxy service will make the purchase on your behalf and temporarily store it in a warehouse in Japan. By consolidating multiple products for shipping, you can save on shipping costs. You can request packaging and arrange for international shipping.
Which one should you choose? Selection Criteria
The selection criteria depend on where the product you want to buy is sold. If the product can be purchased from a site that supports international shipping, it is simpler and does not incur any fees to buy directly.
However, if you want to purchase products that are only available on domestic platforms such as Amazon.co.jp, Rakuten, Mercari, or Yahoo Auctions, or if you want to buy limited items from specific stores, you will need a proxy service. Additionally, if you want to purchase products from multiple stores and have them shipped together, a proxy service is convenient.
In terms of cost, for single item purchases, sites that support international shipping are advantageous. Proxy services incur fees (about 3-5% of the product price), domestic shipping costs (until the product arrives at the warehouse), international shipping, and packaging fees, which can lead to a higher total cost. On the other hand, for bulk purchases or consolidated shipping of multiple products, there is a possibility to save on shipping costs.
How to Calculate Customs Duties and Shipping Costs
When purchasing figures from overseas, it is necessary to consider not only the product price but also shipping costs and customs duties. If you do not accurately grasp these costs, you may exceed your budget. For specific calculation examples and a comparison of fees by shipping companies, please refer to Customs Duties and Shipping.
Basic Rules of Customs Duties and Taxation Mechanism
Customs duties are taxes imposed when importing products from overseas. When importing figures into Japan, the basic customs duty rate for toys is 4.8%. However, there are special rules for calculating the taxable price.
For imports for personal use, 60% of the product price is considered the taxable price. For example, if you purchase a figure for 10,000 yen, the taxable price will be 10,000 yen × 60% = 6,000 yen, and customs duties will be calculated on this amount. Additionally, consumption tax (10%) will also be imposed on top of the customs duties. The consumption tax is calculated as "(product price × 60% + customs duties) × 10%".
Let’s look at a specific example. If you purchase a figure for 20,000 yen, the taxable price will be 20,000 yen × 60% = 12,000 yen, the customs duty will be 12,000 yen × 4.8% = 576 yen, and the consumption tax will be (12,000 yen + 576 yen) × 10% = 1,257.6 yen, which rounds to about 1,258 yen. In total, the customs duties and consumption tax amount to about 1,834 yen.
Utilizing Duty-Free Conditions (for amounts under 16,666 yen)
There is a duty-free system for small imports, where customs duties and consumption tax are exempted if the taxable price is 10,000 yen or less. Since the taxable price is 60% of the product price, it means that if the product price is 16,666 yen or less, it will be exempt from duties.
By utilizing this, you can make purchases without taxes. However, there are a few points to be cautious about. First, if multiple packages arrive on the same day, they may be combined and taxed. Additionally, while shipping costs are often not included in the taxable price, they may be included depending on the shipping method.
Furthermore, certain items such as leather products, knitted goods, and footwear are not eligible for duty exemption. Figures are generally included, but depending on the material, such as figures wearing leather jackets, the classification may change. The amount of 16,666 yen refers only to the product price and does not include shipping costs.
Customs Duty Rates by Country and Changes in 2025
The customs duty rates when purchasing figures from Japan vary significantly depending on the destination country. This section explains the customs duties for imports from Japan to the United States, Europe, and other regions.
The customs duty rates for importing to your own country from Japan are as mentioned above, but conversely, when sending from Japan to overseas, the customs rules of the receiving country apply. There will be significant changes in 2025, so those living in the United States should pay particular attention.
Changes in U.S. Customs Duties (Abolition of de minimis)
For many years, the United States had a duty-free system called the "de minimis rule," which exempted customs duties for products priced at $800 or less. However, starting in August 2025, discussions are underway to gradually abolish this system.
After the abolition, even small items may be subject to customs duties. The customs duty rate for figures is classified under HS code 9503 (toys) and typically ranges from 0-6.8%, but it can vary depending on the character or material. In the future, it will be increasingly important for residents of the United States to calculate costs when purchasing figures.
Customs Duty Rates for Other Major Countries
In EU countries, customs duties are exempt for goods priced below 150 euros, but VAT (Value Added Tax) is applied to the full amount. VAT varies by country, with Germany at 19%, France at 20%, and Italy at 22%, among others.
In Canada, goods valued at 20 Canadian dollars or less are duty-free, while those above that are subject to customs duties of about 6-8% and GST/HST (5-15%). Australia exempts goods valued at 1,000 Australian dollars or less, but GST (10%) is taxed separately. Southeast Asian countries vary significantly, with Singapore and Malaysia having relatively low customs rates, while Thailand and Indonesia set higher rates.
Example of Shipping Cost Calculation and Understanding Actual Costs
The actual cost of purchasing a figure is the total of the product price + shipping + customs duties + consumption tax. Let's calculate with a specific example.
For instance, if you send a figure priced at 15,000 yen from Japan to the United States via EMS, the product price is 15,000 yen, the EMS shipping cost (assuming 500g) is about 2,500 yen, customs duties are currently 0 yen due to de minimis (subject to change after August 2025), making the total 17,500 yen.
In another example, if you send a figure priced at 25,000 yen within Japan, the product price is 25,000 yen, the taxable price is 25,000 yen × 60% = 15,000 yen, customs duties are 15,000 yen × 4.8% = 720 yen, consumption tax is (15,000 yen + 720 yen) × 10% = 1,572 yen, and DHL shipping (assuming 1kg) is about 4,000 yen, resulting in a total of 25,000 yen + 720 yen + 1,572 yen + 4,000 yen = 31,292 yen.
Thus, including shipping and taxes, it is common for the total to be about 1.2 to 1.5 times the product price. Always calculate the total amount before purchasing.
How to Choose and Compare Shipping Companies
There are several options for shipping figures. Since costs, speed, and insurance coverage vary significantly by shipping company, it is important to choose a company that fits your needs.
Features of EMS (International Speed Post)
EMS (International Speed Post) is an international shipping service provided by Japan Post, used by many figure online shops. The rates are relatively reasonable, with shipping a 500g figure to the United States costing about 2,000 to 2,500 yen. The weight limit is up to 30kg, and the total size must be within 1.5m.
Delivery times vary by region, but typically 3-6 days for Asia, 5-10 days for North America and Europe, and 7-14 days for other regions. Tracking services are standard, allowing you to check the shipping status online. Insurance coverage is available up to 2 million yen, but the premium varies based on the declared value of the goods.
Advantages include relatively low prices, the reliability of Japan Post, coverage of many countries, and relatively smooth customs procedures. Disadvantages include longer delivery times compared to couriers (DHL, FedEx, etc.), potential tracking interruptions in some regions, and delivery suspensions or delays to certain areas since COVID-19.
Features of Courier Services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS
Courier services are private international shipping companies known for their speed and reliability. DHL is one of the largest shipping companies in the world, with very fast delivery speeds, typically 2-4 days for shipments to Asia and Western countries. Rates are higher than EMS, with shipping a 1kg figure to the United States costing about 3,500 to 5,000 yen.
FedEx also emphasizes speed, particularly for shipments to the United States. Its pricing structure is similar to DHL, and it has a very detailed tracking system. UPS is known for its reliability, often used by businesses, but individuals can also use it. Rates are slightly higher, but the insurance system is robust.
The advantages of courier services include fast delivery speeds, detailed and reliable tracking systems, comprehensive insurance coverage, and pickup services. Disadvantages include high costs, minimum charges for small packages, potential additional fees (customs handling fees) during customs procedures, and the possibility of unexpected high charges due to volumetric weight.
How to Choose a Shipping Company Suitable for Figure Delivery
For figure delivery, protecting the box is the top priority. Courier services tend to have careful packaging, reducing the risk of box damage. EMS is also acceptable, but there may be rough handling during the shipping process.
The amount of insurance coverage is also an important consideration. For expensive figures (over 50,000 yen), a courier service with sufficient coverage is reassuring. EMS also offers insurance, but be cautious of limits and the complexity of the procedures.
Considering the balance between cost and speed, if you are not in a hurry and the figure costs around 10,000 to 20,000 yen, EMS is the best option. For expensive figures or if you are in a hurry, consider DHL or FedEx. If you are purchasing in bulk and the weight is significant, pay attention to volumetric weight, as EMS based on actual weight may be advantageous in some cases.
Difference Between Actual Weight and Volumetric Weight
Many courier services use the concept of volumetric weight. This is a weight calculated from the size of the package, determined by "length × width × height (cm) ÷ 5,000".
For example, for a box measuring 30cm × 20cm × 20cm, the volumetric weight = 30 × 20 × 20 ÷ 5,000 = 2.4kg. Even if the actual weight is 1kg, if the volumetric weight is 2.4kg, the charge will be based on 2.4kg. Figures are often light relative to their box size, so they are frequently calculated based on volumetric weight, and since EMS is generally calculated based on actual weight, it tends to be cheaper for larger boxes.
Checking the Condition of the Box and Quality Check
For figure collectors, the condition of the box is extremely important. The presence and condition of the box significantly affect future resale prices, so it is necessary to pay attention from the time of purchase. Detailed check points are explained in Checking the Condition of the Box.
Why the Box of a Figure is Important
The box of a figure is not just packaging; it is part of the product's value. The presence or absence of a box can greatly change the resale price. Generally, figures without boxes are said to have a resale price reduced to about 50% compared to those with boxes.
In the case of limited editions or popular characters, this difference is even more pronounced. If the box is in good condition, it may be traded for a price above the retail price, but if the box is damaged, there will be a significant reduction.
The box also serves to protect the figure itself. By storing it in a blister (transparent plastic case), it can be protected from dust and UV rays. If considering long-term storage, the box is essential. Additionally, the box contains important information such as manufacturer details, copyright seals, and JAN codes, which prove that the item is genuine. Without the box, it becomes difficult to prove that it is a legitimate product.
Levels of Box Damage and Evaluation Criteria
The condition of a figure's box is usually evaluated in A, B, and C ranks. Rank A is unopened or in nearly new condition, with no corner dents, no tape marks, no sun damage, and the seal intact (if unopened). The impact on resale price is almost negligible.
Rank B is opened but in good condition, with minor corner dents, slight tape marks, and inconspicuous scratches. The resale price is reduced by about 10-20%. Rank C has obvious damage, with clear corner dents, large tape marks, sun damage or discoloration, and dents or tears. The resale price is reduced by about 30-50%.
In the case of no box, the resale price is reduced by more than 50%. Especially during international shipping, corner dents are likely to occur, so it is important to check the condition of the box in detail with the seller at the time of purchase. If you can confirm with photos, be sure to check the condition of all four corners.
How to Distinguish Unopened Items
Unopened items are more valuable, so it is important to determine whether they are truly unopened. The first step is to check the seal. Many figures have a seal placed on the opening part of the box. Ensure that this seal is not cut or peeled off.
The position of the copyright seal is also important. The copyright seal is usually placed in a position that cannot be removed without opening the box. If the seal is in an unnatural position or shows signs of being reapplied, caution is warranted.
Check the condition of the tape as well. The tape on unopened items is factory-applied, uniform, and neat. If it has been taped again, there may be differences in color or width, double layers of tape, or multiple tape marks.
The condition of the blister is also a factor in judgment. An unopened blister is securely fixed to the main body with no gaps. If it has been opened and returned, there may be slight gaps or distortions.
Photo Checkpoints to Confirm Before Purchase
When purchasing online, it is important to check photos since you cannot see the actual item. The angles you should request from the seller include the four corners of the box (to check for corner dents), the seal and copyright seal areas, the bottom of the box (for tape marks or dirt), and an overall view of the box (for sun damage or discoloration).
Specific points to check include the presence and extent of corner dents, tape marks or residue, sun damage or discoloration (especially on white boxes), scratches or dents, printing misalignment or peeling, and the condition of the seal (if unopened).
Examples of questions to ask the seller include, "Could you add photos of the four corners of the box?" "Is the seal intact?" "Is there any sun damage or discoloration on the box?" "Are there any areas that have been repaired with tape?" These are effective questions. A trustworthy seller will gladly respond to such inquiries.
Important Points for Safe Packaging and Shipping
When shipping expensive figures overseas, proper packaging is extremely important. Inadequate packaging increases the risk of damage during transport or harm to the box.
Suitable Packaging Methods for Figures
The ideal packaging is double packaging. First, wrap the figure's original box in air cushions (bubble wrap). It is recommended to use at least double wrapping, and triple wrapping for expensive figures. Next, prepare a cardboard box of appropriate size. It should be larger than the original box, allowing space for cushioning material.
Fill the bottom of the cardboard box with cushioning material and place the air-cushioned figure's box inside. Create a gap of at least 3-5 cm on all sides and fill it with cushioning material. Newspaper or cushioning paper is suitable. After confirming that the figure does not move, fill the top of the cardboard box with cushioning material as well.
Finally, seal the cardboard box with sturdy tape and affix labels such as "FRAGILE," "HANDLE WITH CARE," and "THIS SIDE UP." Some shipping companies prioritize such notes.
Checking Packaging Quality of Proxy Services
When using proxy services, the quality of packaging varies by service. ZenMarket offers standard packaging, and you can request enhanced packaging (increased air cushions, reinforced cardboard, etc.) for an additional fee. The cost is around 200 to 500 yen.
Sendico also provides sufficient standard packaging but recommends additional protective packaging for expensive items. You can request options like "Fragile Item Warning Label" or "Careful Packaging." FromJapan has relatively high packaging quality and provides packaging suitable for figures as standard.
For any service, if you wish for special packaging, it is recommended to write in the order memo, "Please pack carefully as it is a figure." Some services allow you to check the packaging condition with photos, so take advantage of this for high-value items.
How to Handle Shipping Issues
It is important to know how to respond in case of damage or loss during shipping. After the product arrives, take photos of the outer box before opening it. If there is obvious damage, it is ideal to open it in the presence of the shipping company.
If there is damage to the contents, immediately contact the shipping company and the seller or sales site. Take multiple photos of the damaged areas and keep all evidence, including the outer box, packaging materials, and the damaged figure itself.
The process for claiming compensation follows the shipping company's compensation regulations. For EMS, contact the post office; for DHL or FedEx, contact their customer service. Required documents include proof of purchase (receipt, invoice), photos of the damage, and the compensation claim form.
The compensation amount is based on the declared value of the product. Be careful, as if the declared value is set too low, you may not receive adequate compensation. In the case of loss, similarly contact the shipping company and request an investigation based on the tracking number. Usually, if the item is not found after a certain period (14-30 days), compensation will be applied.
Long-term Storage Methods After Arrival
Once the figure has safely arrived, proper storage becomes important. Poor storage conditions can lead to deterioration of the high-quality figure. More detailed storage techniques are explained in Storage Methods.
Ideal Conditions for Storage Environment
The optimal temperature for storing figures is 20-25°C. High temperatures can cause PVC materials to soften or plasticizers to bleed, while low temperatures can lead to hardening or brittleness of the materials. It is ideal to maintain humidity below 50%. High humidity can cause mold and discoloration, while excessive dryness can lead to paint cracking.
Avoid direct sunlight at all costs. Ultraviolet rays are the biggest cause of paint fading and yellowing. Do not place them near windows or in sunny spots. Ventilation is also important, as closed spaces can trap moisture and increase the risk of mold. Regularly changing the air can help keep the figure in good condition.
Dust is a major enemy of figures. Placing them in glass cases or acrylic cases can protect them from dust. If you do not have a case, you will need to regularly dust them off.
Humidity Management and Moisture Control
Using desiccants is effective for humidity management. By placing desiccants like silica gel in storage spaces, you can lower humidity levels. Desiccants need to be replaced regularly, typically every 2 to 3 months.
Using air conditioners or dehumidifiers to manage the humidity of the entire room is also effective. Especially in hot and humid regions, utilizing the dry mode of air conditioners or dehumidifiers is essential. Avoid storing in completely sealed containers. If sealed completely, moisture can accumulate inside, creating a breeding ground for mold. It is important to maintain adequate ventilation.
It is also recommended to install a hygrometer and regularly check the humidity. If it exceeds 50%, strengthen your dehumidification measures.
UV Protection and Sunburn Prevention
Using UV-cut cases or UV-cut films can protect figures from ultraviolet rays. Some commercially available figure cases come with UV-cut features. Applying UV-cut film to windows is also effective.
Pay attention to lighting as well. Incandescent bulbs and fluorescent lights contain ultraviolet rays, so prolonged exposure should be avoided. LED lighting contains almost no ultraviolet rays, making it ideal for displaying figures.
Choose a location that does not receive direct sunlight, such as walls away from windows or shaded areas. Using curtains or blinds to block sunlight is also effective.
Regularly changing the position of figures can prevent specific parts from deteriorating. By changing the display, you can protect them evenly.
Storage Advice by Climate
In hot and humid regions (Southeast Asia, South America, etc.), it is recommended to keep air conditioners or dehumidifiers running constantly. Place extra desiccants and check the condition of the figures once a month. If there are signs of mold, immediate action is necessary. Avoid sealed containers and use breathable cases.
In dry regions (Middle East, parts of North America, etc.), be cautious of paint cracking due to excessive dryness. Consider using a humidifier to maintain humidity levels between 40% and 50%. Frequent cleaning is necessary due to dust accumulation from static electricity.
In temperate regions (Europe, parts of North America, Japan, etc.), it is important to respond to seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. Dehumidify in summer and humidify in winter as needed, maintaining a temperature of 20 to 25°C and humidity of 40 to 60% throughout the year. Check the condition of figures during seasonal transitions.
Maintenance to Prevent Figure Deterioration
Even with a proper storage environment, figures will deteriorate over time. It is important to understand the types of deterioration and know preventive measures and remedies.
Main Types and Causes of Figure Deterioration
UV deterioration is fading or yellowing caused by ultraviolet rays, particularly noticeable in white or light-colored figures. Direct sunlight and fluorescent lights are the main causes. Plasticizer bleed is a phenomenon where plasticizers contained in PVC material seep to the surface, causing stickiness. This is more likely to occur in high temperatures or sealed environments.
Paint peeling is the detachment of paint due to physical friction or temperature changes, often seen in movable or contact parts. Dust accumulation occurs due to static electricity attracting dust, which not only damages the appearance but can also harm the paint.
Mold growth occurs in high humidity environments, particularly in boxes or blisters, and can spread to the figure itself. To prevent these types of deterioration, maintaining an appropriate storage environment and regular maintenance is essential.
Causes and Remedies for Stickiness
The main cause of stickiness is the plasticizer bleed phenomenon. PVC figures have plasticizers added to soften the material. Over time or in high-temperature environments, these plasticizers seep to the surface, causing stickiness.
A remedy is to gently wipe with water diluted with neutral detergent. Soak a soft cloth in the detergent solution and wipe the sticky area. Then, wipe off the detergent with a cloth dampened with water and completely dry the area with a dry cloth.
Using oil-absorbing paper is also effective. Lightly pressing the surface with facial oil-absorbing paper can absorb the seeping plasticizer. The key is to press gently without rubbing hard.
Using baking soda is another method. Dissolve a small amount of baking soda in water to make a paste, apply it, and wipe it off after a few minutes. However, avoid using this on figures with weak paint.
Preventive measures include avoiding high temperatures, storing in an environment of 20 to 25°C, maintaining ventilation, avoiding sealed containers, and storing figures in blisters to delay plasticizer bleed.
Regular Maintenance Methods
Check the condition of the figures approximately once a month. Items to check include the presence of stickiness, fading or yellowing, paint peeling, dust accumulation, and mold on boxes or blisters.
To remove dust, use a soft brush (such as a makeup brush or a paintbrush). Gently sweep away dust from fine areas. An air duster is also effective, but avoid using it at close range; maintain a distance of 20 to 30 cm. It is also effective to gently wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth.
Storing boxes and blisters is also important. Do not fold the boxes; store them flat. If they get creased, the resale value will decrease. Keep the blister inside as much as possible to protect the figure itself. Avoid long-term storage in cardboard boxes, as cardboard easily absorbs moisture and may attract insects.
Once a year, check the condition of all figures in detail and review cleaning and storage methods as necessary.
Tips for Maintaining Value for Future Resale
If you might sell your figure collection in the future, it is important to know how to maintain its value from now on.
Proper Storage of Boxes and Blisters
Never throw away the boxes. As mentioned earlier, the presence or absence of a box can change the resale price by 50%. Store the boxes without folding them, keeping their original shape. Creases will decrease their value.
Choose a storage location with low humidity and avoid direct sunlight. When stacking boxes, be careful not to crush the bottom box and avoid stacking them too high. Regularly check the condition of the boxes for mold or discoloration.
Blisters are plastic cases shaped to fit the figure and serve as protective materials when storing the figure inside the box. Having a blister prevents the figure from moving inside the box, which helps prevent paint wear. It also protects against dust and moisture. This is especially important for unopened items, as an intact blister serves as proof of being unopened.
Factors Affecting Resale Price
The presence and condition of the box are the most important factors. A figure with a box in excellent condition can fetch 50-100% of the retail price, while one with a box in average condition can go for 30-50%. Without a box, the typical price is 20-30% of the retail price.
Whether the item is unopened is also a significant factor. Unopened items can sell for 1.2 to 2 times the price of opened ones. Limited editions and those with first-release bonuses are traded at higher prices than standard versions. Items labeled "event limited," "store limited," or "limited quantity" tend to increase in value.
Figures of popular characters or series have high demand and are less likely to decrease in price. Prices can fluctuate due to trends in anime and manga. The condition of the figure is also important; issues like paint chipping, missing parts, or stickiness can lead to significant price reductions.
The manufacturer or brand also affects the price. Well-known manufacturers like Good Smile Company, Max Factory, and Alter are highly reliable, and their prices tend to be stable.
How to Identify Figures Likely to Increase in Value
Limited production items have a small number of units produced, so the number available in the market is limited, making them more likely to increase in value over time. Pay attention to labels like "first edition," "event limited," and "pre-order limited."
Figures from popular series maintain stable demand as long as the popularity of the anime or game continues. For example, the Fate series, Hatsune Miku, Re:Zero, and Demon Slayer have long-term popularity.
Products from highly rated manufacturers guarantee quality and are trusted by collectors, making them less likely to lose value. In particular, scale figures from Alter and Good Smile Company receive high praise.
Figures with first-release bonuses or limited parts are likely to increase in value because they cannot be obtained later. The presence or absence of bonuses can significantly change the price.
Figures that have been on the market for some time and have reduced stock will increase in rarity and price. Especially for popular characters, prices can double or triple a few years after release.
Summary: How to Safely Purchase Japanese Figures from Overseas
Purchasing Japanese figures from overseas is not difficult if you have the right knowledge and preparation. By keeping in mind the points outlined in this guide, you can avoid counterfeits, optimize costs, and maintain your valuable collection in good condition for a long time.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
To verify authenticity, check for copyright authorization stickers and hologram seals, cross-reference the JAN code with official databases, inspect the paint quality and details, compare prices to ensure they are not abnormally low, and review the seller's ratings and reviews.
When selecting a purchase source, consider whether to use overseas shipping sites (such as AmiAmi, Solaris Japan) or proxy services (such as ZenMarket, Sendico), choose based on the availability of the desired product, and compare the total amount including fees and shipping costs.
For cost calculation, check the product price + shipping, calculate customs duties (4.8% of the taxable price), add consumption tax (10% of the taxable price + customs duties), check if it qualifies for tax exemption if it is below 16,666 yen, and confirm if the total amount is within budget.
Post-Purchase Checklist
Upon arrival, take photos of the outer box condition, check for any damage before opening, inspect the condition of the figure itself, confirm that all accessories and parts are included, and contact immediately if there is any damage or defect.
For storage environment maintenance, maintain a temperature of 20-25°C and humidity below 50%, avoid direct sunlight, implement UV protection measures, ensure ventilation, avoid sealing, prepare glass cases or acrylic cases, and install dehumidifiers.
As part of regular maintenance, check for stickiness or fading once a month, remove dust with a soft brush, check the condition of the box and blister, and conduct a comprehensive cleaning and review of storage methods once a year.
To Learn More
For those who want to know more about the topics introduced in this guide, please refer to the following related articles.
In How to Distinguish Between Authentic and Fake Products, we introduce distinguishing points by manufacturer and a more detailed checklist. In Customs Duties and Shipping, we explain specific calculation examples by country and detailed comparisons of shipping companies.
In Storage Methods, we introduce storage techniques by climate and details on deterioration countermeasures. In Checking Box Condition, we explain the impact on purchase prices and detailed criteria for assessing damage levels.
In Online Shopping Sites and Proxy Services, we provide detailed explanations of fee comparisons for each service and points to note when using them.
Additionally, the collector community site MyFigureCollection is also very useful. Collectors from around the world share information, and you can find a wealth of information such as figure databases, price trends, reviews, and evaluations of purchase sources. While it is primarily in English, there are many images and numerical data, making it a site where you can feel less of a language barrier.
Purchasing figures from Japan can involve some effort and cost, but the joy of having your favorite character in your hands is invaluable. Please use this guide as a reference and enjoy a safe and satisfying figure life.
