Overview
Japan has a large secondhand market for:
Used goods can offer excellent value, but they require more careful listing review than new retail products.
- cameras
- games
- figures
- fashion
- records
- books
- watches
- electronics
- collectibles
1. Save the original listing evidence
Before purchase, preserve:
Marketplace listings may disappear after sale.
- seller photos
- condition description
- model or serial details
- included accessories
- packaging information
- listing ID
- seller account
2. Condition language is not standardized
Different categories require different checks.
2. Condition language is not standardized: Cameras
- fungus
- haze
- shutter operation
- battery and charger
2. Condition language is not standardized: Fashion
- measurements
- fading
- stains
- repairs
2. Condition language is not standardized: Figures
- missing parts
- box damage
- fading
- repairs
2. Condition language is not standardized: Games and electronics
- tested functions
- region compatibility
- battery condition
- junk/as-is status
3. Used status does not remove U.S. import requirements
A used product is still imported merchandise.
As of 2026, JPS should not use the old blanket statement that shipments under $800 automatically enter the United States duty-free.
Current import treatment depends on the product, value, origin, entry process, and applicable U.S. customs rules.
4. Some regulated products have additional requirements
For consumer products subject to CPSC certification requirements, mandatory electronic certificate filing took effect July 8, 2026.
This does not mean every used personal purchase requires identical paperwork.
It means regulated categories should be checked before shipment rather than assuming used goods are automatically exempt.
5. Batteries are common in secondhand electronics
Used cameras, consoles, laptops, and audio equipment may contain lithium batteries.
Carrier eligibility can depend on whether the battery is:
Check before international forwarding.
- installed
- spare
- damaged
- swollen
6. Use warehouse photos when necessary
JPS item photos cost:
¥500 per item
They can help confirm:
Photos are not professional authentication or functional testing.
- visible model
- obvious exterior condition
- included components
- shipping damage
7. Resolve issues while the item is still in Japan
If the warehouse item appears materially different from the seller listing, investigate before international shipment.
Once the item reaches the U.S., return shipping becomes more difficult and expensive.
8. JPS cost structure
- ¥300 per purchase request
- 60 days free storage
- free consolidation
- packing from ¥500
- actual carrier international shipping
- no JPS shipping markup
- carrier claim assistance included