Precautions for Cross-border Logistics in Japan
The Japanese customs are known for their strictness and efficiency, and inspections of imported goods are very rigorous. During customs clearance, documents such as certificates of origin, commercial invoices, and packing lists are required, and invoices must detail information such as the commodity name, quantity, unit price, and total price. Japan has strict access requirements for products such as food, cosmetics, and medical devices. For example, food must meet the food safety standards set by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and cosmetics need to pass the Japanese quasi-drug certification. In addition, Japan requires that wooden packaging must be heat-treated or fumigated and marked with the IPPC logo.
In terms of taxation, Japan’s tariff rates are relatively low, with an average of about 4.4%, but tariff rates for some agricultural products, textiles, and other goods are relatively high. In addition to tariffs, imported goods are also subject to consumption tax, with a standard rate of 10% and a reduced rate of 8% (only applicable to specific goods such as food, beverages, and newspapers). In terms of transportation, Japan’s main ports include Kobe, Yokohama, and Osaka. The port facilities are advanced, and the operation efficiency is high. However, due to geographical limitations, domestic transportation costs in Japan are relatively high. It is recommended to choose logistics providers with local distribution networks to optimize distribution routes and reduce costs.