How to Buy Japanese Figures from Overseas | Comparison of Reliable Online Stores and Proxy Services
How to Buy Japanese Figures from Overseas | Comparison of Reliable Online Stores and Proxy Services
Two Methods to Buy Japanese Figures from Overseas
There are two main methods to purchase Japanese figures from overseas: "direct purchase" and "indirect purchase." Understanding the characteristics of each method and choosing the one that suits your situation is key to safely and affordably obtaining figures.
Direct Purchase: Online Stores that Support International Shipping
Online stores that support international shipping are services where domestic retailers in Japan ship products directly overseas. Examples include AmiAmi, HobbyStock, and Solaris Japan.
The advantage is that you can place orders directly in Japanese or English, and the process is simple. Since the entire process from purchasing to shipping is completed on one site, it is relatively easy for beginners to use. The site has experience with international shipping, ensuring careful packaging and peace of mind.
On the other hand, the disadvantages include the possibility of certain countries or regions not being supported, limited shipping options, and the inability to purchase products from shops that do not support international shipping. Additionally, depending on exchange rates and shipping costs, it may become expensive.
Indirect Purchase: Proxy Services (Agent Purchase and Forwarding)
Proxy services are services that act on your behalf for purchases within Japan and international shipping. Major providers include ZenMarket, Sendico, FromJapan, and Neokyo.
The biggest advantage is that you can use domestic online stores, Yahoo Auctions, Mercari, and others that do not support international shipping. Since multiple products can be shipped together, it can save on shipping costs. Additionally, you can choose from various shipping methods and additional packaging options, allowing for flexible responses to your needs.
The disadvantages include the possibility of additional fees such as purchase fees, international shipping costs, storage fees, and inspection fees, as well as a more complex process from purchase to shipping. Furthermore, additional fees may apply if the storage period is exceeded, necessitating deadline management.
Which Should You Choose? Basic Selection Criteria
If the figure you want to purchase is available on a site that supports international shipping, direct purchase is simple and convenient. On the other hand, if you want to buy products from domestic-only shops, used figures, or consolidate purchases from multiple sites, proxy services are more suitable.
Reliable Japanese Online Stores that Support International Shipping
Here are some highly reliable online stores that ship Japanese figures overseas. Understand the characteristics of each site and choose a service that fits your needs.
AmiAmi
AmiAmi is one of Japan's largest online stores specializing in figures and anime goods, and it is the most popular among overseas collectors. It offers a wide range of both new and used figures, characterized by high price competitiveness.
You can choose from multiple shipping methods such as EMS, DHL, and Small Packet for international shipping, and it supports many countries and regions around the world. The English site is well-developed, and the product descriptions and ordering process are easy to understand, making it safe for overseas users who cannot read Japanese.
In particular, the high discount rates on pre-order items are a significant advantage, allowing you to purchase figures before their release at prices lower than the retail price. Additionally, stock updates are frequent, and information on restocks of popular items is quick, making it easier to find the figures you want.
The disadvantages include that popular items can sell out quickly and that international shipping costs can be high. Also, since payment for pre-order items is made at the time of shipping, there is a risk of exchange rate fluctuations.
HobbyStock
HobbyStock is an online store specializing in figures operated by the Aniplex Group, with a strong focus on Aniplex-related products. It particularly offers a wealth of limited edition figures and products with original bonuses.
It supports international shipping and utilizes international delivery services such as EMS and DHL. The site is only in Japanese, but it has a wealth of product images, allowing you to visually confirm product details.
The biggest appeal is the ability to prioritize obtaining officially licensed products and limited items. Additionally, the packaging is very careful, receiving high praise from collectors who value the condition of the boxes.
On the other hand, compared to AmiAmi, prices are slightly higher, and the product lineup is limited. Also, since there is no English site, it may be a bit of a hurdle for users who cannot read Japanese.
Solaris Japan
Solaris Japan is a specialized online shopping site for Japanese figures aimed at overseas users. The entire site is composed in English, featuring a service design tailored for international collectors.
It handles both new and used figures, with a particularly rich stock of popular figures that have sold out in Japan. Additionally, the condition evaluation of products is detailed, clearly stating the condition of the box and the presence of accessories even for used items.
Prices are displayed in US dollars instead of Japanese yen, and international shipping costs are included in the product price, so there is no need to worry about additional shipping fees. Furthermore, customer support is available in English, making inquiries smooth.
However, product prices are often set higher compared to other sites, which may not be suitable for cost-conscious users. Also, since there is no Japanese site, inquiries in Japanese cannot be made.
Other Sites Supporting International Shipping
Surugaya is an overwhelming online shopping site with a vast selection of used figures and hobby products. It offers a wide range of products, both new and used, and is attractive for its relatively low prices. It supports international shipping, but the site is only in Japanese, and the shipping methods are limited.
Hobby Search is a specialty store for figures and plastic models, known for its high point return rate on pre-ordered products. It supports international shipping via EMS and SAL, and is well-regarded for its careful packaging.
Animate is a major chain that handles a wide range of anime goods, offering many products with exclusive bonuses. It only supports international shipping for select items, and the countries to which it can ship are also limited.
Checkpoints When Choosing an International Shipping Site
When selecting an international shipping site, first check if your country of residence is included in the shipping destinations. Next, it is important to compare the options for shipping methods and costs to understand the total cost.
Additionally, you should check the frequency of inventory updates and the policies regarding pre-ordered products. Whether customer support is available in English and whether the return/exchange policy is clear can also affect how issues are handled.
Detailed Comparison of Proxy Services
Proxy services that purchase and forward products from domestic Japanese online shopping sites and auctions are extremely convenient tools for overseas collectors. Here, we will compare four major services in detail.
ZenMarket
ZenMarket is one of Japan's largest proxy services designed for overseas users, supporting multiple languages including English, French, and Spanish. It covers major domestic online shopping sites and auctions such as Amazon Japan, Rakuten, Yahoo Auctions, and Mercari.
Fees and Usage Costs
The purchase fee is either 300 yen (about $2.5) or 5% of the product price, whichever is higher. International shipping costs vary depending on the shipping method (EMS, DHL, air mail, sea mail, etc.) and the weight/size of the package. Additionally, optional services such as extra packaging (about 500 yen per box) and product inspection services (about 200 yen per product) are available.
Account registration and basic usage are free, and fees only apply to purchased products. Payment methods include multiple options such as PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfers, providing high flexibility.
Storage Period and Packaging Services
The free storage period is 45 days, during which products can be stored in the warehouse without additional charges. After 45 days, a storage fee of 20 yen per day will be incurred, so it is necessary to complete the shipping process within the deadline.
The packaging service is careful even in its standard form, but it is recommended to use the additional packaging option for fragile items like figures. The additional packaging uses bubble wrap and reinforcement materials to protect the products more safely. There is also a "combined packaging" service that allows multiple products to be packed into one box, saving on shipping costs.
Sendico
Sendico is a long-established proxy service with over 20 years of operational experience, particularly strong in purchasing on Yahoo Auctions and Mercari. It supports Japanese, English, and Chinese, making it popular among users in Asia.
Fees and Usage Costs
The purchase fee is set progressively according to the product price, with a flat fee of 150 yen for products under 500 yen and a 5% fee for products over 500 yen. International shipping costs vary based on the shipping method and the weight of the package, with EMS and SAL being the main options.
Bidding on Yahoo Auctions products through a proxy service incurs a bidding fee of 200 yen in addition to 5% of the final bid price. For purchases on Mercari, a fee of 5% of the product price applies. PayPal is the recommended payment method, and credit cards and bank transfers are also available.
Storage Period and Packing Service
The free storage period is 30 days, which is slightly shorter compared to other services. After 30 days, a storage fee of 20 yen per day will be charged, so planned shipping is necessary.
The packing quality has received high praise from overseas users, especially for fragile items such as figures and glass products. Additional packing options are available for those who wish for safer delivery. It also supports combined shipping for multiple items, allowing for efficient savings on shipping costs.
FromJapan
FromJapan is a comprehensive proxy service that supports almost all online shopping sites in Japan. It features a sophisticated user interface that is easy to use even for beginners. Customer support is prompt and responds well to inquiries in English.
Fees and Usage Charges
The purchase fee is either 500 yen (about 4 dollars) or 7% of the product price, whichever is higher. While this is slightly higher compared to other proxy services, it is rated highly for the quality and reliability of the service.
By subscribing to the membership plan (200 yen per month), the purchase fee is discounted to 5%, making it advantageous for frequent users. International shipping costs vary depending on the shipping method and the weight/size of the package, with a wide range of options including EMS, DHL, air mail, and sea mail.
Storage Period and Packing Service
The free storage period is 60 days, which is the longest among major proxy services. This is very convenient for users who want to collect multiple items over a long period and ship them together. After 60 days, storage fees will apply, but the burden of deadline management is relatively low.
The additional packing service is paid, but it is of very high quality and is supported by collectors who want to deliver figure boxes in perfect condition. In addition to careful packing, a product photography service is also provided, allowing users to check the condition of the items before shipping.
Neokyo
Neokyo is a relatively new proxy service that is rapidly gaining users due to its simple fee structure and user-friendly interface. It is particularly popular among younger collectors, and information sharing on social media is active.
Fees and Usage Charges
The purchase fee is either 300 yen or 5% of the product price, whichever is higher, which is on par with ZenMarket. International shipping costs vary depending on the shipping method and the weight of the package, and it employs a highly transparent pricing calculation system, allowing users to accurately understand costs in advance.
Payment methods include PayPal and credit cards, making the process smooth. Additionally, regular campaigns and discounts are conducted, so there may be opportunities to use the service at a better price depending on the timing.
The storage period is 45 days, and additional fees will apply if the deadline is exceeded. The packing service is of standard quality, but additional packing options are also available. Customer support is available in English and responds quickly via email or chat.
Proxy Service Comparison Table
When comparing the four major proxy services, the following features stand out:
ZenMarket is attractive for its multilingual support and a wide range of supported sites, with relatively low fees. It offers a free storage period of 45 days, additional packing options, and highly rated multilingual customer support.
Sendico is characterized by its long-standing reliability and strength in Yahoo Auctions and Mercari. The fee is 5% + a fixed amount, with a free storage period of 30 days, and packing quality is rated very high. Customer support is available in Japanese, English, and Chinese.
FromJapan boasts the longest free storage period of 60 days and high-quality service. The fees are slightly higher (7% or 500 yen), but can be discounted to 5% with a membership plan. It offers excellent packing quality and photography services, with prompt customer support.
Neokyo is popular for its simple fee structure and ease of use. The fee is 5% or 300 yen, with a free storage period of 45 days and standard packing quality. Although it is a new service, customer support is good.
Recommended Purchase Methods by Purpose
The optimal purchase method varies depending on the purpose and priorities of figure purchases. By making choices that fit your needs, you can achieve a high level of satisfaction in your shopping.
When Prioritizing Cost
If you want to minimize purchase costs, it is effective to utilize proxy services with low fees and to consolidate multiple items for shipping. ZenMarket and Neokyo have relatively low fees, and if you choose sea freight for shipping, you can further reduce costs.
Additionally, if you are targeting used figures, using the used sections of Surugaya or AmiAmi, or utilizing Mercari or Yahoo Auctions through a proxy service, you may be able to obtain them for less than half the price of new ones. Timing your purchase to take advantage of favorable exchange rates is also a smart strategy.
However, if you prioritize low cost too much, there is a risk of longer delivery times or simpler packaging, so consider the balance between the value of the product and the associated risks. Especially for limited editions or high-priced figures, it is recommended to choose a safe shipping method even if it incurs some additional costs.
When Prioritizing Delivery Speed
If you want to get your figures as quickly as possible, the best option is to purchase directly from overseas shipping sites and use express services like DHL or EMS. AmiAmi and Solaris Japan will ship within a few days if they have stock available.
Even when using a proxy service, you can shorten delivery times by quickly progressing through the purchase to shipping process. Once the product arrives at the warehouse, if you immediately proceed with the shipping process and choose DHL for international shipping, it often arrives within about a week.
However, express services can be expensive, so you need to consider the trade-off between cost and speed. Additionally, keep in mind that customs processing and the circumstances of the destination country may cause delays beyond your expectations.
When Prioritizing Safety and Packaging Quality
If you want the figure's box to arrive in perfect condition and minimize the risk of damage, choose a service known for its packaging quality. FromJapan and Sendico are well-regarded for their careful packaging, and utilizing additional packaging options can further enhance safety.
Among overseas shipping sites, Hobby Stock is highly rated for its careful packaging. Also, some proxy services offer the option to take product photos before shipping, allowing you to check the condition of the box before it is sent, which adds peace of mind.
For high-priced figures or limited editions, consider purchasing shipping insurance. Even if it incurs some additional costs, preparing for potential damage or loss can alleviate mental stress.
Recommended for First-Time Buyers
If you are purchasing Japanese figures from overseas for the first time, it is reassuring to choose a service with a robust support system. Solaris Japan has an English site with clear information, and their customer support is also available in English, making it ideal for beginners.
Among proxy services, FromJapan is recommended for its user-friendly interface and quality of support for beginners. ZenMarket also offers multilingual support and comprehensive guides, allowing you to proceed through the purchasing process step by step.
For your first purchase, it is advisable to start with relatively inexpensive figures rather than high-priced items, to get accustomed to using the service and the shipping process. By accumulating successful experiences, you will gradually be able to challenge yourself with higher-priced items and more complex transactions.
Points to Note When Using Proxy Services
Proxy services are convenient, but understanding a few points can help you avoid troubles and use them smoothly.
Management of Storage Period
With proxy services, storage fees will apply after a certain period once the product arrives at the warehouse. The free storage period varies by service, ranging from 30 to 60 days, so be sure to check before using.
When consolidating multiple items for shipping, you need to plan to have all items ready by the storage deadline after the first item arrives. If you are combining pre-order items with in-stock items, it is important to check in advance whether everything will be ready within the storage period, considering the differences in release dates.
Some services will notify you by email as the storage deadline approaches, but it is also reassuring to keep a record on your calendar. If the deadline is exceeded, storage fees can accumulate at several dozen yen per day, potentially resulting in a final cost that is higher than expected.
Cases Where Additional Fees May Apply
In proxy services, various additional fees may arise beyond the basic purchase fee and international shipping costs. Options such as product inspection services, additional packaging services, and photo-taking services are charged separately.
Additionally, if damage or defects are found when the product arrives at the warehouse, there may be additional charges for the return or exchange process. Extra fees are also required when using special shipping methods (such as refrigerated, frozen, or oversized shipping).
Furthermore, in countries where customs duties or import taxes apply, you will need to pay additional costs upon receipt. These are not included in the fees for proxy services, so be sure to check the customs regulations of the destination country in advance.
Checkpoints to Avoid Trouble
Before purchasing, always check the stock status of the product, and if it is a pre-order item, be aware of the release date. If the product description is only in Japanese, it is important to use the translation features of the proxy service or automatic translation tools to understand the content.
If you have any questions, it is recommended to contact customer support before making a purchase. Many proxy services offer email or chat support in English, so do not hesitate to ask questions.
Also, when purchasing high-value items, consider enrolling in shipping insurance to prepare for potential loss or damage. Saving screenshots of your purchase history and shipping records can be helpful as evidence in case of trouble.
Summary: Choose a Purchase Method That Suits You
There are various methods for purchasing Japanese figures from overseas, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best service according to your priorities, budget, and purchase frequency will lead to a more satisfying shopping experience.
Checklist for Choosing a Purchase Source
When selecting a purchase source, check the following points. First, confirm whether your country of residence is included in the shipping destinations and what shipping options are available.
Next, calculate the total cost including fees, international shipping, and additional option charges. The length of the storage period, ease of deadline management, packaging quality, and availability of additional packaging options are also important factors in your decision-making.
Furthermore, check the language support and response speed of customer service, as well as the clarity of the return and exchange policy. User reviews and community reputation can also provide more reliable insights for your decision.
To Learn More
This article focused on selecting a purchase source, but there is still much more information to know about figure imports. For more detailed information on customs duties, import regulations, how to request packaging, and how to deal with shipping troubles, please refer to the complete guide in the parent article. Additionally, related sub-articles provide detailed explanations on how to choose shipping methods and customs countermeasures, so please refer to them as well.