Ichiban Kuji Proxy Purchase Service Complete Guide | Comparison of Proxy Services Supporting International Shipping

Ichiban Kuji is a very popular character lottery in Japan, but there is no official international shipping service available. Therefore, Ichiban Kuji fans living overseas need to use proxy purchase services. This article provides a detailed comparison of major proxy purchase services such as FROM JAPAN, Buyee, and ZenMarket, along with instructions on how to use each service.

What is a Proxy Purchase Service?

A proxy purchase service is a service that acts on behalf of customers to purchase items within Japan and ship them internationally. Ichiban Kuji is only sold at stores within Japan and on Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, and it does not support direct shipping overseas. Therefore, those living abroad need to have someone in Japan purchase the Ichiban Kuji on their behalf and then forward it to their overseas address.

How Proxy Services Work

The basic flow of a proxy purchase service is as follows. First, the user provides the URL or information of the item they wish to purchase to the proxy service. Next, the proxy service purchases the item within Japan and temporarily stores it in their warehouse. After that, when the user selects a shipping method, the proxy service ships the item to the overseas address.

There are mainly three types of fees. The proxy fee (the service fee for purchasing on behalf), domestic shipping fee (from the seller to the proxy service's warehouse), and international shipping fee (from Japan to the overseas address). These fees can vary significantly between services, so it is important to compare the total costs.

Why Proxy Purchase is Necessary

Ichiban Kuji ONLINE only ships to addresses within Japan and does not support international shipping. Additionally, Ichiban Kuji sold at physical stores such as convenience stores and bookstores can only be purchased within Japan. This restriction is due to issues such as shipping costs, the complexity of customs duties and import regulations, and regional sales rights.

Since the official service does not provide international shipping, Ichiban Kuji fans living overseas have no choice but to use proxy purchase services. By using a proxy purchase service, it becomes possible to purchase products that are limited to Japan from anywhere in the world.

Comparison of Major Proxy Purchase Services

There are several proxy purchase services available for purchasing Ichiban Kuji from overseas. Here, we will compare the three most popular services (FROM JAPAN, Buyee, ZenMarket) in detail. Each service has its own fee structure, supported languages, and shipping options, so it is important to choose the service that best fits your needs.

FROM JAPAN

FROM JAPAN is a long-established service specializing in proxy purchases from Japanese online shopping and auction sites. It supports a wide range of domestic Japanese sites, including Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, and can ship a variety of products overseas.

The fees generally start at 500 yen per item and vary depending on the product price and the purchase site. The international shipping fee varies based on weight and destination, but multiple shipping methods such as EMS, DHL, and FedEx are available. Supported languages include Japanese, English, and Chinese (simplified and traditional), and customer support is also available in multiple languages.

The advantages include a large number of supported sites, a variety of shipping options, and comprehensive customer support. The disadvantages are that fees may be higher than other services and that beginners may find the usage somewhat complicated. Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.

Buyee

Buyee is a proxy purchasing service that partners with major e-commerce sites like Rakuten and Yahoo! Shopping, characterized by its user-friendly interface. It also supports purchases from Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, making it easy for beginners to use.

The fees range from 5% to 10% of the product price, varying by the site and product category. Shipping costs fluctuate based on weight and shipping method, but by using the combined shipping feature, you can save on shipping costs by consolidating multiple items into one package. Supported languages include Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, and the site interface is designed to be very user-friendly.

The advantages are that the user interface is intuitive and easy to use, you can save on shipping costs with combined shipping, and there are many payment options (such as PayPal, credit cards, Alipay, etc.). The disadvantages include that fees are proportional to the product price, making it more expensive for high-priced items, and that it may not support some minor sites.

ZenMarket

ZenMarket is popular as a low-cost proxy purchasing service. It features a simple fee structure and affordable fees, making it ideal for users looking to keep costs down.

The fees start at 300 yen per item, and they remain fixed even as the purchase amount increases. Shipping costs fluctuate based on weight and shipping method, similar to other services, but it is generally rated as having high cost performance. Supported languages include Japanese, English, French, and Spanish.

The advantages are that the fees are fixed and low, the fee structure is simple and easy to understand, and account registration is easy. The disadvantages include fewer shipping options compared to other services and that customer support may be somewhat slow to respond. Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.

Service Comparison Table

We will compare major proxy purchasing services in a table format. You can check important factors for service selection, such as fees, shipping options, supported languages, and payment methods side by side. Please use this comparison table to choose the service that best fits your needs.

How to Read the Comparison Table

The comparison table compares services across six categories: proxy fees, shipping methods, supported languages, payment methods, shipping countries, and customer support. Proxy fees are the base fee per purchase, but they may vary based on product price and weight. Shipping methods indicate the variety of international shipping options available, with more options like EMS, DHL, and FedEx providing greater flexibility.

Supported languages indicate the languages in which services can be used besides Japanese, such as English, Chinese, and Korean. Payment methods include options like credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. Shipping countries indicate the range of countries and regions that the service supports, with most services covering major countries worldwide.

Cost Comparison Simulation

As a practical purchase example, let's compare the costs of purchasing 10 lottery tickets (totaling about 7,000 yen) from Ichiban Kuji ONLINE and shipping them to the United States. We will assume the product weight is about 2 kg.

In the case of FROM JAPAN, the代理手数料 is 500 yen, domestic shipping is 700 yen, and international shipping (EMS) is about 3,500 yen, making the total cost approximately 11,700 yen. For Buyee, the代理手数料 is 7% of the product price (about 490 yen), domestic shipping is 700 yen, and international shipping is about 3,800 yen, resulting in a total cost of approximately 11,990 yen. In the case of ZenMarket, the代理手数料 is 300 yen, domestic shipping is 700 yen, and international shipping is about 3,400 yen, leading to a total cost of approximately 11,400 yen.

In this example, ZenMarket was the cheapest, while Buyee was the most expensive. However, the total cost can vary significantly depending on the destination country or region, product weight, and the chosen shipping method. Additionally, fluctuations in exchange rates can also affect the total cost. Before making a purchase, it is recommended to use the estimation features of each service to confirm the exact costs.

How to Use FROM JAPAN

FROM JAPAN has many supported sites and robust customer support, making it recommended for those using proxy purchasing services for the first time. Here, we will explain the specific steps from account registration to product receipt.

Account Registration

Access the official FROM JAPAN website and click the "新規登録" button at the top right of the screen. Enter your email address, password, country of residence, and shipping address. An authentication email will be sent to the registered email address, so click the link in the email to activate your account.

Account registration is free, and you can use the proxy purchasing service immediately after registration. You can change the shipping address later, but registering an accurate address allows for smoother shipping cost estimates.

Purchase Request

After logging in, copy the URL of the product you want to purchase (such as the product page of Ichiban Kuji ONLINE). Click the "URLで購入" button on the FROM JAPAN dashboard and paste the copied URL. The product information will be automatically loaded, so enter the purchase quantity and click "カートに追加".

If you want to purchase multiple products, repeat the same steps to add them to the cart. When proceeding with the purchase process, estimates for the代理手数料 and domestic shipping will be displayed. Check the details, and if there are no issues, click "購入依頼を送信". It will take a few days for the FROM JAPAN staff to purchase the product and have it arrive at the warehouse.

Payment and Shipping

Once the product arrives at the warehouse, you will receive a notification via email. Check the product on the dashboard and select the shipping method. You can choose from multiple shipping methods such as EMS, DHL, FedEx, SAL, and sea mail. After selecting the shipping method, the international shipping cost and total amount will be displayed.

Choose a payment method (credit card, PayPal, bank transfer, etc.) and complete the payment. After payment, FROM JAPAN will pack and ship the product. A tracking number will be sent via email, allowing you to check the shipping status at any time. The shipping duration varies depending on the shipping method and destination, but it typically takes about 5 to 10 days for EMS and about 1 to 2 months for sea mail.

How to Use Buyee

Buyee is a service that features an easy-to-use interface and a consolidated shipping function. It is especially recommended for those who want to purchase multiple items together. Here, we will explain how to use Buyee specifically.

Account Registration

Access the official Buyee website and click on "Free Membership Registration." You can register using your email address or a social media account (such as Facebook, Google, Twitter, etc.). If you register with an email address, enter your email address and password, and click the link in the verification email.

After registration, register your shipping address on your My Page. Enter your name, address, and phone number in English or Japanese. Buyee is a multilingual site, so it can also be used in English, Chinese, and Korean.

Purchase Request

In the search bar on Buyee's homepage, paste the URL of the item you want to purchase or search by keyword. You can also directly open the product page of Ichiban Kuji ONLINE. Select the quantity of the item on the product page and click the "Apply for Purchase" button.

Once the item is added to your cart, click "Proceed to Checkout." An estimate of the agent fee and domestic shipping cost will be displayed, so confirm the details and finalize your purchase. Buyee staff will purchase the item, and it will arrive at the warehouse within a few days.

Payment and Shipping

When the item arrives at the warehouse, you will receive a notification via email. You can check the item from "Stored Packages" on your My Page. If you have multiple items, you can use the consolidated shipping function to combine them into one package. This can significantly save on shipping costs.

Choose a shipping method (such as EMS, DHL, FedEx, SAL, etc.) and check the shipping cost. Select a payment method (credit card, PayPal, Alipay, bank transfer, etc.) and complete the payment. After payment, Buyee will pack and ship the item. A tracking number will be issued, allowing you to check the shipping status in real-time.

How to Use ZenMarket

ZenMarket is a service that features a low-cost and simple pricing structure. It is an ideal choice for those who want to keep costs down. Here, we will explain how to use ZenMarket.

Account Registration and Purchase Request

Access the official ZenMarket website and click the "Sign Up" button. Enter your email address, username, and password to register. A verification email will be sent to the registered email address, so click the link to activate your account.

After logging in, register your shipping address on your My Page. Enter your name, address, and phone number. ZenMarket supports English, Japanese, French, Spanish, and more.

Copy the URL of the item you want to purchase (such as the Ichiban Kuji ONLINE product page) and click the "Order by URL" button on the ZenMarket dashboard. When you paste the URL, the product information will be automatically loaded. Enter the quantity you want to purchase and click "Add to cart." Review the contents of your cart and click "Submit order" to send your purchase request. ZenMarket staff will purchase the item, and it will arrive at the warehouse within a few days.

Payment and Shipping

When the product arrives at the warehouse, you will receive a notification via email. You can check the product from "My items" on your My Page. When selecting a shipping method, options such as EMS, DHL, and SAL are available. Once you select a shipping method, the shipping cost and total amount will be displayed.

Choose a payment method (credit card, PayPal, bank transfer) and complete the payment. ZenMarket also employs a "wallet system" where you can pre-fund your account, allowing for smoother payments when you charge in advance. After payment, ZenMarket will package and ship the product. A tracking number will be issued, so you can check the shipping status.

Other Proxy Purchase Services

In addition to FROM JAPAN, Buyee, and ZenMarket, there are several other proxy purchase services available. Each has its own features, allowing you to choose a service that fits your needs.

Neokyo

Neokyo is a relatively new proxy purchase service known for its user-friendly interface and competitive pricing. The fee starts at 5% of the product price, with a minimum fee of 300 yen. Supported languages include English, French, and Japanese, making it popular among residents in Europe.

One of Neokyo's features is its comprehensive inspection service. You can check the condition of the product through photos, and if there are any issues, you can request a return or exchange. The shipping methods include major international shipping services like EMS, DHL, and FedEx. However, the number of supported sites may be fewer than other services, so it's necessary to check in advance.

Other Options

Blackship is a forwarding service that only provides forwarding, not proxy purchasing. You purchase items yourself on Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, send them to Blackship's address in Japan, and they will forward them overseas. The fees are relatively low, but you need to handle the purchasing process yourself, so it is suitable for those who can understand Japanese to some extent.

Tensoucom is also a similar forwarding service with multiple warehouses in Japan. You can consolidate products purchased from multiple shops into one warehouse before shipping, which can save on shipping costs. However, you need to make purchases on Ichiban Kuji ONLINE yourself.

There is also the option of using personal import agents, but it can be difficult to find a reliable agent, and the risk of trouble is high, so it is not recommended for beginners. Using official proxy purchase services is safer and more reliable.

Shipping Methods and Shipping Costs

When shipping products overseas through proxy purchase services, you can choose from multiple shipping methods. Depending on the shipping method, the speed, cost, trackability, and insurance availability can vary significantly. It is important to choose a shipping method that aligns with your priorities.

Types of International Shipping

EMS is international express mail and is the most popular shipping method. The delivery speed is about 5 to 10 days, and it is trackable and insured. The cost is lower than DHL or FedEx, and it has high reliability, making it a balanced choice. For packages under 2kg, the cost is approximately 3,000 to 5,000 yen.

DHL and FedEx are international courier services and are the fastest shipping methods. Delivery takes about 3 to 7 days, and tracking can be checked in detail. The cost is higher than EMS, ranging from about 5,000 to 8,000 yen for packages under 2kg. This option is suitable for urgent shipments or for safely sending high-value items.

SAL is a shipping method that is faster than sea freight and cheaper than EMS. The delivery time is about 2 to 3 weeks, tracking is available, but insurance is not included. The cost is approximately 2,000 to 3,500 yen for packages under 2 kg. It is suitable for those who are not in a hurry and want to keep costs down.

Sea freight is the cheapest shipping method, but the delivery time is very long, taking 1 to 2 months, and there is no tracking or insurance. The cost is approximately 1,500 to 2,500 yen for packages under 2 kg. It is an option for those who do not mind the time and just want to send items cheaply, but it is not suitable for high-value items due to the high risk of loss.

How to Choose a Shipping Option

When choosing a shipping method, it is necessary to consider the balance of speed, cost, and safety. If you are in a hurry, choose DHL or FedEx; if you prioritize balance, choose EMS; and if you focus on cost, choose SAL or sea freight.

For high-value items or fragile figures, it is recommended to choose EMS, DHL, or FedEx, which include insurance. Since prizes from lottery draws can be of high value, a shipping method with insurance is reassuring. Additionally, tracking functionality is essential. Shipping methods without tracking should be avoided due to the high risk of loss.

The optimal shipping method also varies depending on the destination country or region. Some countries do not allow EMS, so it is necessary to check in advance. Additionally, customs duties and import restrictions vary by country, so be sure to check before choosing a shipping method.

Breakdown of Fees and Costs

When using a proxy purchasing service, there are several fees in addition to the product price. It is important to understand the breakdown of various fees to accurately grasp the total cost.

Details of Various Fees

The proxy fee is the fee charged by the proxy purchasing service when it acts on your behalf. FROM JAPAN charges from 500 yen per item, Buyee charges 5-10% of the product price, and ZenMarket charges from 300 yen per item, with different pricing structures depending on the service. When purchasing high-value items, services with fixed fees are often more economical.

Domestic shipping fees are the shipping costs from the retailer to the warehouse of the proxy service. In the case of Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, it usually costs about 500 to 800 yen. If you purchase multiple items, there may be individual shipping fees, so it is necessary to check in advance.

International shipping fees are the costs of shipping products from Japan to an overseas address. They vary significantly based on weight, size, destination, and shipping method. For sending a 2 kg package to the United States, the estimate is about 3,500 yen for EMS and about 6,000 yen for DHL.

Payment processing fees are incurred when paying by credit card or PayPal. Typically, this is about 3-5% of the payment amount. In the case of bank transfers, transfer fees apply. Fluctuations in exchange rates also affect the total cost, so during periods of yen depreciation, the payment amount may increase.

Customs Duties and Consumption Tax

When importing products overseas, customs duties and consumption tax may be imposed. The criteria for taxation vary by country, but in many countries, products below a certain amount are exempt from tax.

In the case of the United States, customs duties are waived for personal use items with a total value of less than 800 dollars. In Europe (EU), customs duties are waived for products priced below 150 euros, but consumption tax (VAT) may be applied. In Canada, customs duties and consumption tax are waived for products priced below 20 Canadian dollars.

Customs duties vary by product category, and figures and toys often incur duties of around 0-10%. Consumption tax varies by country, typically ranging from 5-25%. It is common for shipping companies to advance customs duties and consumption tax, which are billed upon the arrival of the goods. It is recommended to check your country's customs regulations in advance and calculate the total cost.

Troubleshooting and Frequently Asked Questions

When using a proxy purchasing service, various issues may arise. Here, we will explain common troubles and their solutions, as well as frequently asked questions.

Common Troubles and Solutions

We will explain how to deal with situations where purchases could not be made. Ichiban Kuji ONLINE often sells out quickly, and there may be cases where the stock is gone by the time the proxy service attempts to make the purchase after receiving the request. In this case, the proxy fee is generally not charged, and a refund is issued. It is important to set up restock notifications and quickly place requests at the time of resale.

If there is a shipping delay, check the shipping status with the tracking number. If the delay is due to customs inspection, you may need to wait a few days to a week. If the delay is caused by the shipping company, contact the customer support of the proxy service to check the situation.

If there is damage or loss of the product, contact the proxy service immediately. If you chose a shipping method with insurance, you may be eligible for compensation. If you discover damage upon arrival, take photos at the time of unboxing and report it to both the shipping company and the proxy service. In the case of loss, check the tracking records and request an investigation from the shipping company.

FAQ

Points to Note When Using Proxy Purchasing Services

To use proxy purchasing services safely and efficiently, it is important to understand several points. Pay attention to both cost and security aspects.

Cost Considerations

Always check the total cost before making a purchase. In addition to the product price, calculate the total amount including service fees, domestic shipping fees, international shipping fees, payment processing fees, customs duties, and consumption tax. It is important to confirm the accurate cost using the estimation feature before deciding to purchase.

Be aware of hidden fees. Some services may charge additional fees for packaging, inspection, storage, etc. Check the service's terms of use and fee schedule in advance to understand the conditions under which additional costs may arise.

Fluctuations in exchange rates also affect the total cost. During periods of yen depreciation, the payment amount increases, so it is advisable to check the exchange rate before deciding when to make a purchase. Additionally, since the cost can vary significantly depending on the shipping method, if you are not in a hurry, choosing a cheaper shipping option can help reduce costs.

Security and Reliability

Always use official websites. There are fraudulent sites posing as proxy purchasing services, so be sure to check the URL carefully and access the official site directly rather than through search engine ad links. It is important to choose reliable services such as FROM JAPAN, Buyee, and ZenMarket.

Attention is also needed for the protection of personal information. Set a complex password and avoid reusing the same password across different sites. Enter payment information using secure methods and avoid using public Wi-Fi.

Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages. Phishing emails may be sent pretending to be proxy services. Do not reply to emails requesting personal or payment information; instead, log in directly to the official site to verify. When contacting customer support, use the contact information listed on the official site.

Summary: Enjoying Ichiban Kuji from Overseas

Even if you live abroad, you can enjoy Ichiban Kuji by using proxy purchasing services. The services introduced in this article, FROM JAPAN, Buyee, and ZenMarket, are all reliable proxy services, each with its own features.

When choosing a service, consider four points: fee structure, shipping options, quality of customer support, and supported languages. For first-time users or those seeking extensive support, FROM JAPAN is recommended. Buyee is suitable for those who prioritize ease of use and consolidated shipping. ZenMarket is ideal for those who prioritize cost.

It is important to accurately understand the total cost. Calculate the total amount including product price, service fees, shipping fees, customs duties, and consumption tax in advance to confirm whether you can make a purchase within your budget. It is recommended to utilize the estimation feature and compare multiple services.

Choosing the shipping method is also an important factor. If you are in a hurry, choose DHL or FedEx; for a balance, choose EMS; and for cost savings, choose SAL or sea freight. For high-value or fragile items, always choose a shipping method with insurance.

By effectively utilizing proxy purchasing services, you can enjoy Ichiban Kuji from anywhere in the world. Use the information provided in this article to select the service that best suits you and purchase Ichiban Kuji safely. Obtain attractive character goods exclusive to Japan and enhance your collection.