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 your shipping address
Tell us your delivery address. Once the item arrives at our office we confirm the shipping method (primarily Japan Post EMS; DHL on request) and the cost based on weight, size, 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
We share the tracking number after dispatch so you can follow the shipment on the carrier website.
- 05
Delivery to your door
Available shipping methods, costs, and delivery times vary by destination and item. We quote available methods and fees individually after your item arrives at our office. Arrival dates are not guaranteed.
Carrier Options
Delivery is primarily handled via Japan Post EMS; DHL is also available on request. Available methods depend on the destination country and the item, and we confirm the shipping method and cost once your item arrives at our office.
Japan Post EMS
Primary shipping method
- Tracking available after dispatch
- Used for most shipments
- Cost depends on destination and weight
DHL
Available on request
- Tracking available after dispatch
- Cost depends on destination and weight
- Availability confirmed per case
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
We share the tracking number after dispatch so you can follow the shipment on the carrier's website. Available shipping methods, costs, and delivery times vary by destination and item. Arrival dates are not guaranteed.
| Carrier | Tracking |
|---|---|
| Japan Post EMS | Japan Post EMS tracking (post.japanpost.jp) |
| DHL | DHL tracking (dhl.com) |
Questions about your shipment? Contact us with your tracking number and we will help you follow up with the carrier.
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
Coverage depends on the shipping method and the carrier's terms. If you want coverage for a high-value item, please ask us before shipment and we will confirm what is available for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which carriers does Lost and Found Japan use?
- Delivery is primarily handled via Japan Post EMS; DHL is also available on request. Available methods depend on the destination country and the item. We confirm the shipping method and cost once your item arrives at our office.
- How long does international shipping from Japan take?
- Available shipping methods, costs, and delivery times vary by destination and item. We quote available methods and fees individually after your item arrives at our office. Arrival dates are not guaranteed.
- 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?
- Coverage, if any, depends on the shipping method and the carrier’s terms. Please ask us before shipment and we will confirm what is available for your case.
- Can I ship a laptop or lithium battery?
- Items containing lithium batteries may be restricted depending on the carrier and destination country, and loose batteries and power banks generally cannot be shipped. 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. No success, no charge.