International Shipping Guide
Everything you need to know about shipping your recovered item from Japan to your home country — carriers, customs, prohibited items, and delivery timelines.
How Shipping Works
Once your item is confirmed found, Lost and Found Japan coordinates every aspect of international shipping — from pickup and professional packaging through customs documentation and final delivery to your door.
- 01
Item confirmed with photos
We send you photos of the found item for verification before proceeding. You approve, then we proceed.
- 02
You provide shipping address & choose carrier
Enter your delivery address and select your preferred carrier. We calculate the shipping cost based on weight, dimensions, and destination.
- 03
We collect, pack, and dispatch
We pick up the item from the facility, professionally package it with appropriate materials, prepare customs forms (CN22/CN23/commercial invoice), and hand over to the carrier.
- 04
Tracking number provided
You receive a tracking number by email within 24 hours of dispatch. Monitor in real time through the carrier website.
- 05
Delivery to your door
Typical delivery: DHL 2–4 days, FedEx 2–5 days, EMS 4–7 days. Customs clearance may add 1–3 days in some countries.
Carrier Options
We ship via three trusted carriers. Choose based on budget, speed, and your destination country's import procedures.
DHL Express
Best for speed and tracking visibility
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Dedicated customs clearance
- Door-to-door delivery
- Best for time-sensitive items
FedEx International Priority
Best for large/heavy items
- Excellent customer support
- Reliable customs handling
- Package protection
- Good for electronics & fragile items
Japan Post EMS
Best value for non-urgent items
- Tracked to destination
- Lower cost option
- Widely accepted
- Good for lightweight items
Customs & Duties
When importing personal items into your home country, customs duties may apply depending on the declared value and your country's regulations.
Declaration
All items are declared at their actual value. We do not undervalue shipments. The declared value affects import duty calculations in your country.
Personal Effects
Most countries exempt personal effects (items you already owned) from import duties. Your passport and travel history help confirm this with customs.
Who pays?
Import duties and taxes in the destination country are the recipient's responsibility. These vary widely — check your country's customs thresholds.
Documentation
We prepare all required customs forms (CN22, CN23, commercial invoice). For high-value items, a detailed description and proof of prior ownership may be required.
Common destination duty-free thresholds
* Thresholds and rules change. Consult your country's customs authority for current regulations. Lost and Found Japan is not responsible for import duties or customs delays.
Packaging & Handling
We take packaging seriously. Your item may have survived Japan's found-item system — we make sure it survives the international journey too.
Item Assessment
Each item is assessed for fragility, size, and appropriate packaging material before dispatch.
Protective Materials
Bubble wrap, foam inserts, and double-walled boxes for fragile or electronic items.
Photo Documentation
We photograph items before and after packaging. Sent to you for confirmation before dispatch.
Tracking & Delivery
All shipments include full tracking. You'll receive a tracking number by email within 24 hours of dispatch.
| Carrier | Typical Delivery |
|---|---|
| DHL Express | 2–4 business days |
| FedEx International | 2–5 business days |
| Japan Post EMS | 4–7 business days |
You can also track your case status at any time on the Lost and Found Japan portal using your reference number — no login required.
Prohibited Items
Some items cannot be shipped internationally regardless of carrier. Please review this list before submitting an inquiry for restricted items.
Completely Prohibited
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives
- Illegal drugs / narcotics
- Hazardous materials (Class 1–9)
- Counterfeit goods
- Human remains or ashes (special permit required)
Restricted (Contact Us)
- Lithium batteries (loose)
- Liquids over 100ml
- Sharp instruments
- Perishables
- Medicines / pharmaceuticals
- High-value items over USD 10,000
If you're unsure whether your item can be shipped, contact us before submitting an inquiry. We'll advise based on the specific item and destination country.
Shipment Insurance
All shipments include basic carrier liability. For valuable items, we recommend purchasing additional insurance.
Standard Coverage (Included)
Carrier liability covers loss or damage up to USD 100–500 depending on carrier. Included at no extra charge.
Full Value Insurance (Optional)
Full declared value insurance available for electronics, jewelry, and high-value items. Added at checkout. Recommended for items over USD 200.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which countries does Lost and Found Japan ship to?
- We ship to over 150 countries via DHL Express, FedEx International, and Japan Post EMS. Contact us if your country is not covered by standard carriers.
- How long does international shipping from Japan take?
- DHL and FedEx Express typically deliver in 2–4 business days. Japan Post EMS takes 4–7 business days for most destinations. Customs processing may add time in some countries.
- Who pays customs duties and taxes?
- Import duties and taxes in your destination country are the recipient's responsibility. Rates vary by country and item value. We declare items at actual value.
- Is my item insured during shipping?
- Yes. All shipments include carrier liability coverage. For high-value items, we recommend adding full shipment insurance — available at checkout.
- Can I ship a laptop or lithium battery?
- Laptops with built-in batteries can be shipped via DHL or FedEx with proper documentation. Loose lithium batteries are restricted. Contact us for guidance on specific items.
Start Your Recovery & Shipping Today
Submit a free inquiry and we'll locate your item, confirm it with photos, and ship it to your door anywhere in the world. No success, no charge.