Introduction to Japan Importing Regulations
Entering the Japanese e-commerce market—including Amazon Japan, Rakuten, and TikTok Shop—presents massive opportunities for global sellers from the United States, China, and India. However, Japan's strict customs clearance regulations often act as a barrier.
To clear customs in Japan, any shipment must have an Importer of Record (IOR) or an Attorney for Customs Procedures (ACP) registered in Japan. This guide breaks down how you can seamlessly navigate these customs requirements.
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1. What is an IOR (Importer of Record)?
An IOR is a person or entity residing in Japan who takes legal responsibility for the imported goods at the time of customs clearance.
- The IOR pays customs duties, consumption tax (JCT), and ensures compliance with domestic product safety laws (like PSE for electronics or Food Sanitation Act for kitchenware).
- Non-resident companies cannot act as an IOR. If you do not have a registered branch in Japan, you must hire a third-party IOR.
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2. What is an ACP (Attorney for Customs Procedures)?
If you do not want to use an IOR, the alternative is to register an ACP (税関事務管理人 - Zeikan Jimu Kanri-nin).
- An ACP is a proxy registered with Japan Customs who handles all administrative clearance procedures on behalf of the non-resident importer.
- Key Advantage: Using an ACP allows you to import goods under your own company's name, rather than transferring ownership to an IOR.
- *Note*: An ACP only handles customs procedures; they do not take ownership of the goods or take responsibility for local compliance regulations after customs clearance.
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3. How DONOMI Solves Customs Clearance for Global Sellers
DONOMI offers integrated ACP registration and IOR facilitation services at our logistics hub near Tokyo. We help sellers from the US, China, and India:
Compliance Check: Before shipping, we review your cargo to ensure it meets Japanese import laws.
ACP Representation: We act as your registered ACP proxy to handle clearance documents with Japan Customs.
Fulfillment Integration: Once cleared, goods are directly transferred to the DONOMI warehouse in Chiba for storage, labeling, and shipping to Amazon FBA or direct customers.
Need help with ACP/IOR registration? Contact DONOMI today to speak with our multilingual customs consulting team.
