Although Japan is roughly the size of California, this nation of 126 million people has made its mark on the world, thanks to tasty dishes like ramen and sushi, cutting-edge technology like bullet trains, and natural wonders like Mount Fuji.
As well, Japan is also the world’s third-largest economy, coming in just behind the United States and China. Given its economic importance, it’s no wonder so many businesses are looking into shipping to Japan with FedEx. Well, this article will tell you everything you need to know!
Does FedEx Ship to Japan?
FedEx made inroads in Japan in 1984 and is now well-established in the country. It serves both Narita International Airport and Kansai International Airport in 2024. Customers can ship in 1 to 3 business days with services like International First, International Priority Express, and International Priority. International Economy is a more budget-friendly option and promises delivery in 5 business days.
If you’ve still got questions about using FedEx to ship to Japan, then I hope you read all of the ways to the end of this article!
How Can I Ship With FedEx to Japan?
FedEx offers four package shipping options and two freight options for packages being sent from the United States to Japan.
Let’s see what they are in more detail:
FedEx International First – If you’ve got an urgent package or are running behind schedule, then this is the service for you. Delivery happens in 1 to 3 business days and deliveries are made in the early morning.
FedEx International Priority Express – This is another fast service offered by FedEx that promises delivery in 1 to 3 business days. Deliveries are made by 10:30 AM or noon to most addresses.
FedEx International Priority – This service is FedEx’s most popular international option. Packages are usually delivered in 1 to 3 business days by the end of the workday.
FedEx International Economy – Whether you’re trying to save money or just aren’t in much of a rush, this service is a great way to get your packages to Japan with a smaller price tag.
Usually, delivery takes 5 business days.
For heavier or bulkier items, look no further than FedEx’s international freight options.
International Priority Freight is FedEx’s premium service that gets your shipments delivered within 1 to 3 business days.
International Economy Freight is a cheaper option that will still get your packages delivered in 4 to 6 business days.
How Long Does It Take to FedEx a Package to Japan?
FedEx shipping times to Japan depend on the service selected. In general, FedEx’s fastest delivery options take 1 to 3 business days to arrive.
That being said, if you pay more for International First or Priority Express, then your package will arrive earlier in the day.
Further, Economy options take 5 business days for packages and between 4 to 6 business days for freight shipments.
How Much Does It Cost to FedEx Something to Japan?
Perhaps the best way to illustrate shipping costs from the United States to Japan is by giving an example.
Let’s say I’m shipping a 5 lb package from Las Vegas, Nevada to Tokyo, Japan.
In this case, I will pay $288.21 if I select International Priority. For International Economy, I’ll pay $237.82.
Keep in mind that these prices will change depending on the weight of your package and how far it needs to travel.
As well, you may encounter surcharges related to fuel costs, residential deliveries, and extra handling (for fragile items).
What Items Does FedEx Not Ship to Japan?
As an island nation, Japan is very careful about which products are allowed inside its borders.
Below, you’ll find a list of items that are either prohibited or restricted from entering Japan.
Prohibited items cannot be sent to Japan via FedEx, whereas restricted items may be allowed if the shipper gets permission beforehand.
The prohibited items are as follows:
- Animal products
- Arms and swords (includes ammunition, daggers, firearms, guns, and knives)
- Calendars
- Coffee and coffee samples
- Collectibles (including coins, stamps, and currency)
- Cologne and perfume
- Cosmetics
- Diaries
- Drugs (prescription and non-prescription)
- Eyeglasses and contacts
- Fabrics & fabric samples
- Glass products
- Leather goods
- Photographs
- Shoes
- Tea
- Toys
The restricted items are as follows:
- Alcohol
- Cutlery, cookware, containers, dishes, etc. used for food, beverages, or for food preparation
- Dairy products
- Meat and meat products
- Medical equipment
- Medicine
- Plants and plant products
- Rice and wheat
- Sugar
- Toys for babies
- Tuna, whale, and seaweed
Does Japan Post Deliver FedEx Packages?
Once packages have arrived in Japan and cleared customs, Japan Post handles last-mile domestic deliveries for certain packages.
This collaboration between FedEx and Japan Post started in 2015 and combines the operational strength of FedEx with the domestic network of Japan Post.
What’s more, it helps FedEx offer a faster and more reliable international delivery service to customers in Japan, especially for lightweight and high-value products.
What Are FedEx’s Size Restrictions for Packages Going to Japan?
FedEx has set the maximum package weight for international shipments at 150 lbs.
In addition to this weight restriction, packages can only measure up to 108 inches in length or 130 inches in length plus girth.
If your item is heavier or larger than these maximums, it will need to be sent through a freight service instead.
Where Is the FedEx Hub in Japan?
FedEx’s Japanese headquarters are located in Toyko and Chiba.
Its main shipping hubs are Narita International Airport (NRT) and Kansai International Airport (KIX).
To learn more, you can also read our posts on whether or not FedEx ship to Germany, does FedEx ship to China, and does FedEx ship to Australia.
Conclusion
FedEx has been operating in Japan for close to 40 years. During that time, it has developed a strong partnership with Japan Post providing fast, reliable shipping services to customers shipping from the United States.
Before shipping to Japan, make sure your package falls within FedEx’s size guidelines and that all of the items are allowed into the country.
