Japan Import Reselling Guide 2026: Mercari Japan to US Arbitrage Strategy

The Japanese secondhand market operates under entirely different dynamics than American resale platforms. Cultural factors—smaller living spaces, frequent relocations, and stigma against hoarding—create a robust secondhand ecosystem where premium goods sell for fractions of US prices. A vintage Levi’s jacket worth $80 in America might sell for ¥2,000 ($13-15) on Mercari Japan. Designer handbags commanding $400-600 stateside appear for ¥15,000 ($100-130) in Tokyo.

This price differential creates international arbitrage opportunities. Resellers importing from Japan to the US market exploit:

• Currency advantages (yen-dollar exchange rates favor USD buyers)
• Cultural valuation differences (Japanese market undervalues American vintage)
• Supply abundance (smaller homes = constant decluttering)
• Quality standards (Japanese sellers maintain items impeccably)

However, importing isn’t as simple as buying cheap and selling expensive. Proxy services, international shipping costs, customs duties, and product selection complexity create barriers most resellers never overcome. This comprehensive guide eliminates those barriers, teaching you exactly how to source profitable inventory from Mercari Japan and resell it for substantial margins in the US market.

Why Import from Japan? The Arbitrage Opportunity

Understanding why price differentials exist is essential to exploiting them:

Price Differentials: Japan vs. US Markets

The arbitrage stems from Asymmetric value perception:

American Vintage in Japan: Japanese fashion enthusiasts venerate American heritage brands (Levi’s, Champion, Patagonia) but the vintage secondhand market treats them as commodity clothing once initial retail excitement fades. A vintage 1980s Champion reverse weave sweatshirt—selling for $60-100 in US vintage shops—lists for ¥1,500-3,000 ($10-20) on Mercari Japan.

Why? Japanese consumers prefer:

• New, contemporary fashion
• Domestic Japanese brands (Comme des Garcons, Issey Miyake)
• Minimal clutter (Marie Kondo effect is real)

Result: American vintage floods Japanese secondhand markets at depressed prices.

Japanese Products in US: Conversely, authentic Japanese fashion brands, vintage kimonos, anime collectibles, and J-beauty products command premiums in the US from enthusiasts willing to pay for authentic access to Japanese culture.

Arbitrage Sweet Spots:

• Vintage American denim (Levi’s, Lee, Wrangler): 60-75% cheaper in Japan
• American workwear (Carhartt, Dickies vintage): 50-70% cheaper
• Outdoor brands (Patagonia, North Face vintage): 40-60% cheaper
• Vintage Nike/Adidas: 50-65% cheaper
• Japanese fashion brands (for resale in US): 30-50% cheaper than US boutiques

Unique Products Unavailable in America

Beyond pricing arbitrage, Japan offers products simply unavailable stateside:

Japanese Exclusive Collaborations:

• Nike Japan exclusives
• Uniqlo x Japanese artist collaborations (not released in US)
• Regional Pokémon merchandise
• Limited edition beauty products

Vintage Japanese Brands:

• 1990s-2000s Japanese streetwear (Bape, Undercover, Kapital)
• Designer pieces from Japanese designers (avant-garde fashion)
• Vintage Japanese denim brands (Evisu, Samurai, Momotaro)

Collectibles:

• Anime figures and limited editions
• Japanese Nintendo/gaming merchandise
• Vintage Japanese electronics (Walkmans, certain cameras)

These items cater to niche US collector markets willing to pay premiums for authenticity and rarity.

Quality & Authenticity Advantages

Japanese secondhand culture offers quality assurances rare elsewhere:

Cultural Quality Standards: Japanese society emphasizes meticulous care of possessions. “Used” items from Japan often appear barely worn—9/10 condition is standard, not exception.

Seller Honesty: Mercari Japan sellers obsessively disclose flaws. A listing noting “slight wear on corner” might describe damage barely visible to American eyes. This cultural overcaution about condition means you rarely receive items worse than described.

Counterfeit Rarity: While counterfeits exist everywhere, Japan’s consumer protection laws and cultural emphasis on authenticity mean significantly fewer fakes circulate on Japanese resale platforms versus Chinese or Southeast Asian markets.

Result: Buying from Japan provides quality floor higher than equivalent-priced US thrift store finds.

Market Examples: Nintendo, Vintage Fashion, Collectibles

Nintendo Products: Japan is Nintendo’s home market. Exclusive colors, limited editions, and regional releases appear on Mercari Japan months or years before US availability (if ever). Resellers import Japanese Switch consoles, special edition controllers, and region-free games at 20-40% below US eBay prices, then flip domestically.

Vintage Fashion Case Study: Vintage Levi’s 501s:

• Mercari Japan: ¥2,000-4,000 ($13-27)
• US eBay/Grailed: $60-95
• Potential margin: $35-70 per pair after all costs

At scale (importing 20+ pairs monthly), margins compound significantly.

Anime Figures: Limited edition figures released in Japan:

• Mercari Japan: ¥3,000-8,000 ($20-55)
• US eBay: $80-180
• Potential margin: $30-100 per figure

Niche but highly profitable for collectors with expertise authenticating figures and understanding which characters/series drive US demand.

Understanding Mercari Japan

Before importing, understand platform fundamentals:

What Is Mercari Japan? (Not the US App)

Critical Distinction: Mercari Japan and Mercari US are separate platforms:

Mercari Japan (mercari.com):

• Japanese-language interface
• Japanese yen (¥) pricing
• Japan-only shipping addresses accepted
• Requires proxy service for international buyers

Mercari US (mercari.com/us):

• English interface
• USD pricing
• US shipping addresses
• Completely separate inventory

You cannot buy from Mercari Japan using the US app or vice versa. They’re distinct marketplaces operated by the same parent company.

How Japanese Secondhand Culture Works

Japanese secondhand markets reflect unique cultural attitudes:

Space Constraints: Average Tokyo apartment is 700 sq ft (vs. 1,800 sq ft average US). Limited storage means constant decluttering. Selling used items isn’t stigmatized—it’s practical necessity.

Seasonal Turnover: Japanese fashion-conscious consumers turnover wardrobes seasonally. Last season’s Uniqlo? Sold on Mercari. This creates constant inventory flow.

Pricing Psychology: Japanese sellers prioritize quick sales over maximum profit. Items priced to move within days rather than weeks. “Better to sell for ¥1,000 today than store hoping for ¥2,000 eventually.”

Politeness Culture: Buying/selling involves ritualized politeness. Sellers package items immaculately (tissue paper, tape, handwritten thank-you notes). Even used items arrive looking gift-wrapped.

For resellers, this means abundant inventory, fair pricing, excellent condition items, and seller honesty about flaws.

Product Categories with US Resale Potential

Not everything on Mercari Japan makes sense to import:

High Potential Categories:

✅ Vintage American denim (largest arbitrage opportunity) ✅ Vintage streetwear (Nike, Champion, Patagonia) ✅ Japanese fashion brands (Bape, Kapital, Visvim for US resale) ✅ Vintage cameras/electronics (Nikon, Canon, Sony compacts) ✅ Anime collectibles (figures, limited edition goods) ✅ Designer bags/accessories (authentic Japanese market availability) ✅ Beauty products (Japanese/Korean beauty for US beauty enthusiasts)

Low Potential Categories:

❌ Heavy furniture (shipping costs destroy margins) ❌ Generic modern clothing (no US demand for fast fashion) ❌ Bulky items (anything over 2-3kg faces prohibitive shipping) ❌ Fragile ceramics (breakage risk too high) ❌ Licensed character goods with dubious IP (customs seizure risk)

Focus Rule: Import only items where US resale value is 3X+ total landed cost (product price + all fees/shipping).

Language Barrier Solutions

Mercari Japan is Japanese-language only. Solutions:

Google Translate:

• Translate entire page via Chrome browser
• Copy/paste item descriptions for translation
• Good enough for basic comprehension (not perfect but functional)

Proxy Service Interfaces:

• Buyee and other proxies offer English interfaces
• Search using English keywords (auto-translates to Japanese)
• Item descriptions auto-translated (quality varies)

Google Lens:

• Photograph Japanese text with phone
• Google Lens translates text in images
• Useful for deciphering sizing charts and condition notes

Key Japanese Terms to Learn:

• “美品” (bihin) = Excellent condition
• “未使用” (mishiyou) = Unused/new
• “サイズ” (saizu) = Size
• “送料” (souryou) = Shipping fee
• “傷” (kizu) = Scratch/damage

After 10-20 purchases, you’ll recognize common terms and navigate without constant translation.

Using Proxy Buying Services to Access Mercari Japan

proxy services are essential bridge between you and Japanese sellers:

What Is a Proxy Service? (Buyee, FromJapan, Neokyo)

Proxy Service Function:

1. You find item on Mercari Japan
2. Provide item URL to proxy service
3. Proxy purchases item on your behalf (using Japanese address)
4. Seller ships to proxy warehouse in Japan
5. Proxy consolidates multiple packages (if desired)
6. Proxy ships internationally to your US address

Leading Proxy Services:

Buyee (buyee.jp):

• Most popular, user-friendly
• English interface
• Partnerships with Mercari Japan, Yahoo Auctions Japan, Rakuten
• Higher fees but best customer service

FromJapan (fromjapan.co.jp):

• Slightly lower fees than Buyee
• More technical interface (less beginner-friendly)
• Broader site support (can proxy from smaller Japanese sites)

Neokyo (neokyo.com):

• Competitive fees
• Good for bulk purchases
• Growing but smaller than Buyee/FromJapan

Recommendation for Beginners: Start with Buyee. Trade slightly higher fees for English support and intuitive interface.

Buyee Complete Guide (Most Popular for Mercari)

Step-by-Step Buyee Process:

1. Create Buyee Account (free):

• Register at buyee.jp/en
• Verify email
• No upfront costs

2. Search Mercari Japan through Buyee:

• Buyee dashboard →Select “Mercari”
• Search using English keywords (auto-translates)
• Browse results (photos universal, descriptions translated)

3. Place Proxy Order:

• Click “Bid/Buy” on desired item
• Buyee shows total estimate (item price + service fees)
• Confirm purchase
• Pay via PayPal, credit card, or bank transfer

4. Item Ships to Buyee Warehouse:

• Seller ships to Buyee’s Japan warehouse (3-5 days)
• Buyee inspects item upon arrival
• Photos uploaded to your account

5. Request International Shipping:

• Choose shipping method (see shipping section below)
• Optional: Consolidate multiple items into one package
• Pay shipping + any additional fees
• Buyee ships to your US address

6. Receive Item (7-21 days depending on shipping method)

Fee Structure: Service Fees, Domestic Shipping, International

Buyee Fee Breakdown:

Service Fee: 500 yen ($3.30) per item + 5% of purchase price

• Example: ¥3,000 item = ¥500 + ¥150 = ¥650 service fee ($4.30)

Domestic Shipping (Seller → Buyee warehouse): ¥500-1,000 ($3.30-6.60) per item (varies by seller, usually ¥500)

Optional Services:

• Package Consolidation: ¥500-1,000 ($3.30-6.60) depending on package count
• Inspection Photos: Free (standard)
• Item Protection: ¥300 ($2) per item (insurance against damage)

International Shipping (Biggest cost):

• Varies dramatically by weight and shipping method
• See detailed breakdown in shipping section
• Typically $15-60 per package depending on size/weight

Payment Processing Fees:

• PayPal: 4% fee
• Credit Card: 3-4% fee (depends on card)

Total Example (¥3,000 Levi’s jacket):

• Item: ¥3,000 ($20)
• Service fee: ¥650 ($4.30)
• Domestic shipping: ¥500 ($3.30)
• International shipping (EMS 500g): ¥2,000 ($13)
• PayPal fee (4%): $1.65
• Total landed cost: $42.25

If that jacket resells for $75-85 in US, net profit is $30-40 after eBay fees. Repeat 20 times monthly = $600-800 profit.

How to Set Up a Buyee Account

Account Setup (5 minutes):

1. Visit buyee.jp/en

2. Click “Sign Up”

3. Provide:

   • Email address
   • Password
   • Username

4. Verify email (check spam folder)

5. Add shipping address:

   • Go to Account → Shipping Address
   • Enter US residential or business address
   • Verify address (Buyee may request ID verification for large orders)

6. Add payment method:

   • PayPal (recommended for buyer protection)
   • Credit/debit card
   • Bank transfer (slower, not recommended)

Pro Tip: Use PayPal Goods & Services for purchases. Provides additional buyer protection layer if items arrive damaged or misrepresented.

Placing Your First Proxy Order Step-by-Step

Beginner-Friendly First Order:

1. Browse Mercari Japan via Buyee:

• Search “Levi’s 501” or “vintage Nike”
• Filter by price (¥1,000-5,000 range for first order)
• Look for items with clear photos

2. Evaluate Listing:

• Check photos (zoom in for condition)
• Read translated description (note any mentioned flaws)
• Verify size (Japanese sizing differs; see section below)
• Check seller rating (prefer 95%+ positive)

3. Calculate Total Cost: Use Buyee’s estimate tool (shows all fees before committing)

• Ensure total landed cost allows 2-3X markup in US market

4. Place Order:

• Click “Buy Now” (or “Bid” for auctions)
• Confirm payment
• Receive confirmation email

5. Monitor Order Status:

• Buyee dashboard shows:
  • “Order placed” → “Payment confirmed” → “Shipped to warehouse” → “Arrived at warehouse” → “Ready for international shipping”

6. Request Shipping Once Items Arrive:

• After item(s) arrive at Buyee warehouse (~3-5 days), request international shipping
• Choose method (EMS for first order—fast and trackable)
• Pay shipping
• Receive tracking number

7. Receive Package (7-10 days for EMS):

• Track via Japan Post/USPS
• Inspect upon arrival
• If satisfied, list for resale!

Common First-Order Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Ordering heavy items (boots, leather jackets) without calculating shipping
• Not researching US market value before buying
• Forgetting to account for all fees in profit calculations
• Ordering wrong size due to Japanese sizing differences

Research US Market Value Instantly
Before importing from Japan, check US prices with Underpriced. Analyze sold eBay, Mercari, and Grailed data to ensure profitable arbitrage.

Best Products to Import from Mercari Japan

Product selection makes or breaks import arbitrage:

Japanese Fashion & Streetwear (Bape, Undercover, Kapital)

Why These Work: Japanese streetwear brands command cult followings in US but limited retail distribution. Authentic pieces sell at premiums.

Top Brands to Import:

Bape (A Bathing Ape):

• Mercari Japan: ¥8,000-25,000 ($55-170) for hoodies/jackets
• US Grailed/eBay: $180-450
• Margin: $80-200 per piece

Kapital:

• Mercari Japan: ¥12,000-35,000 ($80-235) for signature pieces
• US Grailed: $280-650
• Margin: $120-300 per piece

Undercover:

• Mercari Japan: ¥10,000-30,000 ($67-200)
• US Market: $220-550
• Margin: $100-250 per piece

Neighborhood, WTAPS, Fragment:

• Similar margins to above
• Smaller US market (niche collectors)

Authentication Critical: Learn to authenticate these brands (replica markets exist). Research logo placements, tags, stitching details before purchasing.

Vintage Denim & Americana (Levi’s, Selvedge Denim)

The Golden Arbitrage:

Vintage American denim is undervalued in Japan, overvalued in US—perfect arbitrage.

Levi’s 501s (1980s-1990s):

• Mercari Japan: ¥2,000-4,500 ($13-30)
• US eBay/Grailed: $55-95
• Profit: $25-55 per pair

Vintage Levi’s Trucker Jackets:

• Mercari Japan: ¥3,500-8,000 ($23-55)
• US Market: $80-160
• Profit: $35-80 per jacket

Lee, Wrangler, Vintage Carhartt:

• Similar arbitrage opportunities
• Slightly lower margins than Levi’s but more abundant inventory

Selvedge Denim (Japanese brands like Evisu, Samurai, Momotaro):

• Mercari Japan: ¥8,000-18,000 ($55-120)
• US Market: $180-400
• Profit: $80-200 per pair

Sizing Considerations: Japanese sizing runs significantly smaller than American. Japanese “L” = US “M”. Always check measurements in listings.

Anime Figures & Limited Edition Collectibles

Collector Market Demand:

US anime fans pay premiums for authentic Japanese figures unavailable domestically.

Prize Figures (Crane game prizes):

• Mercari Japan: ¥1,500-4,000 ($10-27)
• US eBay: $35-80
• Profit: $15-40 per figure

Scale Figures (1/8, 1/7 scale collectibles):

• Mercari Japan: ¥4,000-15,000 ($27-100)
• US Market: $90-280
• Profit: $35-120 per figure

Nendoroids, Figmas (Poseable figures):

• Mercari Japan: ¥2,000-6,000 ($13-40)
• US Market: $50-110
• Profit: $20-50 per figure

Limited Editions, Event Exclusives:

• Mercari Japan: ¥8,000-30,000 ($55-200)
• US Market: $180-600
• Profit: $80-300+ per figure

Risks:

• Counterfeits exist: Learn authentication (packaging, paint quality, serial numbers)
• Shipping fragility: Figures ship in boxes; require careful packing
• Niche market: Not all characters/series have US demand

Profitable Series (Strong US demand):

• My Hero Academia
• Demon Slayer
• One Piece
• Fate Series
• Popular waifu characters

Nintendo & Sony Electronics (Region-Free Products)

Gaming Products:

Nintendo Switch Items:

• Japanese exclusives (special edition consoles, controllers)
• Region-free (works on US accounts)
• Mercari Japan: ¥25,000-45,000 ($170-300) for limited editions
• US eBay: $320-550
• Profit: $80-180 per console

Handheld Consoles:

• Game Boy, DS, 3DS limited editions
• Mercari Japan: ¥8,000-20,000 ($55-135)
• US Market: $150-350
• Profit: $60-150

PlayStation Items:

• Japanese exclusive controllers, limited editions
• varying arbitrage depending on model

Caution:

• Verify region-lock status before buying
• Nintendo Switch is region-free; some older consoles weren’t
• Factor voltage differences (Japan 100V vs US 110V) for powered items

Japanese Beauty & Skincare

J-Beauty Demand in US:

Japanese beauty products (sunscreens, sheet masks, skincare) have cult followings but limited US retail distribution.

Profitable Categories:

Sunscreens (Biore, Anessa):

• Mercari Japan: ¥800-1,500 ($5-10)
• US eBay/Amazon: $18-30
• Margin: $8-15 per item (modest but stackable)

Sheet Masks, Skincare Sets:

• Mercari Japan: ¥1,000-3,000 ($7-20)
• US Market: $25-55
• Margin: $10-25 per set

Limitations:

• Expiration dates (must check and disclose)
• FDA regulations (cosmetics okay; anything medicinal requires caution)
• Shipping restrictions (no aerosols, limited liquids)

Best Approach: Bundle multiples (5-10 items in one listing) to justify shipping costs and increase perceived value.

Vintage Cameras & Optics (Nikon, Canon, Olympus)

Film Camera Renaissance:

Film photography resurgence drives demand for Japanese vintage cameras.

35mm Film Cameras:

• Mercari Japan: ¥5,000-15,000 ($35-100) for working bodies
• US eBay: $120-350
• Profit: $50-180 per camera

Compact Cameras (Point & Shoot):

• Mercari Japan: ¥3,000-8,000 ($20-55)
• US Market: $80-200 (cult models like Olympus Mju-II)
• Profit: $35-100

Lenses:

• Mercari Japan: ¥8,000-25,000 ($55-170)
• US Market: $150-450
• Profit: $60-220

Risks:

• Functionality: Must test cameras (fungus, shutter issues common)
• Returns: Buyers expect working condition; defects lead to returns
• Expertise Required: Need camera knowledge to assess condition

Best Strategy: Specialize in specific models (research which cameras trending among film photography community). Canon AE-1, Olympus OM-1, Nikon FM2 consistently in demand.

Designer Goods (Cheaper Japanese Retail Market)

Japanese Luxury Market:

Authentic designer goods (Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes) sell cheaper in Japan due to higher supply and constant turnover.

Arbitrage Potential:

Louis Vuitton Bags:

• Mercari Japan: ¥30,000-80,000 ($200-540) for classic models
• US Market: $450-1,200
• Profit: $150-500 per bag

Designer Wallets, Small Leather Goods:

• Mercari Japan: ¥15,000-35,000 ($100-235
• US Market: $280-600
• Profit: $100-280

Risks:

• Authentication crucial: Japan has counterfeits too
• Condition variance: Used luxury goods show wear
• Returns complex: International return shipping expensive

Only pursue if:

• You have authentication expertise
• You’re comfortable with higher-dollar inventory
• You can access authentication services (The RealReal, Fashionphile for verification)

Products to Avoid (Heavy, Fragile, Licensing Issues)

Don’t Import:

❌ Heavy Items (Boots, Thick Leather Jackets, Furniture):

• Shipping costs exceed profit margins
• Anything over 2kg gets expensive fast

❌ Fragile Ceramics/Glassware:

• Breakage rate too high
• Insurance costs erode margins

❌ Counterfeit-Prone Items Without Expertise:

• Supreme, Off-White, luxury goods if you can’t authenticate
• One counterfeit damages seller reputation permanently

❌ Licensed Character Goods with Dubious IP:

• Bootleg anime merchandise
• Customs can seize counterfeit IP goods

❌ Items with Complex Sizing (Shoes especially):

• Japanese shoe sizing different from US
• High return rates due to fit issues

Searching Mercari Japan Like a Pro

Efficiency separates profitable importers from money-losers:

Using Google Translate for Product Searches

Search Strategy:

English to Japanese Translation:

• Type “Levi’s 501” → Google Translate → “リーバイス501”
• Copy Japanese text into Mercari Japan search

Buyee Auto-Translate:

• Search English keywords through Buyee interface
• Auto-translates and searches Mercari Japan
• Less precise than manual Japanese search but easier

Brand Names Usually Don’t Need Translation:

• “Nike,” “Levi’s,” “Patagonia” work in English on Mercari Japan
• Japanese sellers use English brand names

Japanese Keyword Strategy & Brand Names

Effective Search Terms:

General Categories:

• “ビンテージ” (vintage)
• “レディース” (women’s)
• “メンズ” (men’s)
• “USA製” (made in USA)
• “古着” (used clothing/vintage)

Combine with Brand Names:

• “Levi’s ビンテージ” (Levi’s vintage)
• “Nike 古着” (Nike used/vintage)

Advanced Filters:

• Sort by “Price: Low to High” (find deals)
• Filter by condition (未使用 = unused)
• Filter by shipping (送料込み = shipping included)

Reading Product Descriptions (Condition, Flaws)

Japanese Condition Descriptors:

Excellent:

• “美品” (bihin) = Excellent condition, barely used
• “未使用品” (mishiyouhin) = Unused, like new
• “新品同様” (shinpin douyou) = Like new

Good:

• “目立った傷はありません” = No noticeable scratches
• “使用感あり” (shiyoukan ari) = Signs of use
• “多少の使用感” = Slight signs of use

Flaws:

• “傷あり” (kizu ari) = Has scratches/damage
• “汚れ” (yogore) = Stains/dirt
• “ほつれ” (hotsure) = Fraying/loose threads
• “色褪せ” (iroasase) = Fading

Key Listing Sections:

1. Photos: Japanese sellers photographed flaws (zoomed-in shots of any damage)
2. Condition: Listed in dropdown (新品 = new, 未使用に近い = nearly unused, 目立った傷や汚れなし = no noticeable damage, etc.)
3. Description: Text describing item, often with measurements

Translation Tip: Chrome browser → Right-click → “Translate to English” translates entire page. Quality varies but sufficient for understanding condition notes.

Understanding Japanese Sizing (Clothing & Shoes)

Critical Difference: Japanese sizing runs 1-2 sizes smaller than American.

Clothing Size Conversion:

Tops/Jackets:

• Japanese S = US XS
• Japanese M = US S
• Japanese L = US M
• Japanese XL = US L
• Japanese XXL = US XL

Bottoms (Waist measurements more reliable than size labels):

• Always check waist measurement in cm
• Convert to inches (divide by 2.54)
• Example: 76cm waist = 30 inches

Shoes:

Always Check Measurements: Reputable sellers list:

• Shoulder width (肩幅)
• Chest (身幅)
• Length (着丈)
• Sleeve (袖丈)
• Waist (ウエスト)

Convert cm to inches: Divide by 2.54

Pro Tip: Create measurement chart for your target US sizes. When you see listings, immediately compare measurements to your chart. Prevents sizing mistakes.

Spotting Authentic vs. Fake Products

Authentication Red Flags:

Price Too Good to Be True:

• Supreme hoodie for ¥3,000 ($20)? Definitely fake
• Bape jacket for ¥5,000 ($35)? Suspicious

Photos:

• Blurry photos hiding details
• Photos stolen from other listings (reverse image search)
• No close-ups of tags/logos

Seller Ratings:

• New sellers with zero feedback selling luxury goods
• Sellers with negative reviews mentioning authenticity

Listings:

• Generic descriptions, no specific details
• Multiple identical items (individual sellers shouldn’t have 10 identical Supreme hoodies)

Authentication Steps:

1. Research Authentic Details: Study authentication guides for brands you import (fonts, tags, stitching)
2. Request Additional Photos: Through Buyee, can request more photos before purchasing
3. Check Seller History: View seller’s other listings and reviews
4. Use Authentication Services Post-Purchase: For high-value items, pay for third-party authentication before relisting

Generally Safe Categories:

• Vintage Levi’s (rarely counterfeited due to low value)
• Nintendo products (buying from reputable sellers)
• Generic vintage clothing

High-Risk Categories:

• Supreme, Palace, Off-White
• Luxury designer (LV, Gucci, Chanel)
• Expensive streetwear (Bape, Undercover if suspiciously cheap)

Cost Analysis: Total Landed Cost Formula

Understanding true costs prevents unprofitable purchases:

Purchase Price on Mercari Japan

This is just the starting point, not final cost:

Example Item: Vintage Levi’s 501 jeans listed at ¥3,000 ($20 USD at ¥150/$1 exchange rate)

Proxy Service Fees (Buyee Example)

Service Fee: 500 yen base + 5% of item price

• ¥500 + (¥3,000 × 0.05) = ¥500 + ¥150 = ¥650 ($4.30)

Domestic Japan Shipping to Warehouse

Seller → Buyee Warehouse Fee: Typically ¥500 ($3.30)

(This varies by seller; Mercari Japan sellers often include shipping, but sometimes charge extra)

International Shipping Costs (EMS, DHL, Surface Mail)

This is the largest variable cost:

Weight-Based Pricing (Buyee International Shipping)::

EMS (Express Mail Service) - 7-10 days:

• 500g: ¥2,000 ($13)
• 1kg: ¥2,800 ($18.50)
• 2kg: ¥4,600 ($30)

Surface Mail - 2-3 months:

• 500g: ¥1,000 ($6.60)
• 1kg: ¥1,400 ($9.25)
• 2kg: ¥2,000 ($13)

DHL - 3-5 days (premium):

• 500g: ¥3,500 ($23)
• 1kg: ¥5,000 ($33)
• 2kg: ¥7,500 ($50)

Weight Estimation:

• T-shirts: 200-300g
• Jeans: 500-700g
• Hoodies/Jackets: 600-900g
• Shoes: 800-1,200g

Consolidation Advantage: Shipping 3 pairs of jeans together (1.8kg total) costs $30. Shipping individually (3 × ¥2,000 = $39) costs more. Always consolidate when possible.

Customs & Import Duties (De Minimis Rule)

US De Minimis Rule (2026): Packages valued under $800 declared value are duty-free.

What This Means:

• Single package with items totaling $750 declared value: No customs duties
• Package exceeding $800: Subject to duties (varies by product category, typically 5-15%)

Strategy:

• Keep package declared values under $800
• Ship multiple packages if ordering bulk
• Don’t lie on customs forms (illegal and risks seizure)

CBP Inspections:

• Customs and Border Protection randomly inspects packages
• Delays 3-7 days if inspected (normal)
• If counterfeit goods detected → seizure, no refund, possible penalties

PayPal/Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fees

PayPal: 4% fee on international transactions (Buyee accepts PayPal) Credit Card: 3-3.5% foreign transaction fee (unless using no-FTF card)

Fee Avoidance:

• Use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees (Capital One, Discover, some Chase cards)
• Factor PayPal fees into total cost calculations

Real Example: $30 Item → Total Cost Breakdown

Item: Vintage Levi’s 501 jeans on Mercari Japan

Cost Breakdown:

US Resale Price (Grailed/eBay): $75-85 eBay Fees (13%): ~$10 Shipping to Buyer (First Class): ~$5 Net Profit: $75 - $42.55 - $10 - $5 = $17.45

Margin: 41% ($17.45 profit / $42.55 cost)

Not amazing for single item, but repeat 30 times monthly = $523 profit. And many items have better margins.

Factor in All Costs Before Buying. Use spreadsheet template:

Item Price: _____
Service Fee: _____
Domestic Ship: _____
Intl Shipping (estimate weight): _____
Payment Fee: _____
TOTAL LANDED COST: _____
US Market Value: _____
Platform Fees (13%): _____
Shipping to Buyer: _____
NET PROFIT: _____

Only buy if net profit meets your minimum threshold ($15+ recommended).

Calculate True Import Profit Margins
Factor in all fees with Underpriced’s profit calculator. Import costs + platform fees = real profitability.

Shipping from Japan: Methods & Costs

Shipping method selection balances speed, cost, and reliability:

EMS (Express Mail Service): Fast but Expensive

Speed: 7-10 days (Japan Post → USPS) Tracking: Full tracking both countries Insurance: Included up to ¥20,000 (~$135) Reliability: High (99%+ delivery rate)

When to Use:

• Time-sensitive items (reselling trending products)
• Valuable items needing tracking/insurance
• First orders (to receive inventory quickly and validate model)

Cost-Benefit: EMS costs 40-60% more than Surface Mail but delivers 75-90% faster. Worth it for most resellers prioritizing cash flow and customer satisfaction.

DHL/FedEx: Premium Speed, Higher Costs

Speed: 3-5 days Tracking: Real-time tracking Customs Clearance: Faster (DHL handles customs proactively)

When to Use:

• Ultra-valuable items ($500+) needing maximum security
• Replacing sold inventory urgently
• Business buyers willing to pay premium for speed

Cost-Benefit: Costs 50-80% more than EMS. Only justified for high-value items or urgent needs. Most resellers use EMS as speed/cost sweet spot.

Surface Mail: Cheap but 2-3 Months

Speed: 2-3 months (slow boat shipping) Tracking: Limited (basic tracking, not detailed) Insurance: Optional extra

When to Use:

• Restocking non-urgent inventory
• Heavy items where air shipping prohibitively expensive
• Building back-stock (order 3 months ahead of selling season)

Cost-Benefit: Saves 40-60% vs. EMS. Only viable if you have 2-3 month time horizon.

Risk: Packages occasionally lost (no recourse). Only use for lower-value items.

Package Consolidation Strategies

Consolidation = Combining Multiple Purchases into Single Shipment

Example:

• Buy 5 vintage tees over 2 weeks
• Each ships to Buyee warehouse
• Request consolidation into one box
• Ship combined package internationally

Benefits:

• Shipping Savings: One 2kg package costs ¥4,600 ($30). Five 400g packages cost 5 × ¥2,000 = ¥10,000 ($66). Savings: $36.
• Customs Simplicity: One package to clear vs. five
• Environmental: Less packaging waste

Buyee Consolidation Fees: ¥500-1,000 depending on number of items. Savings usually exceed consolidation fees.

Strategy:

• Order multiple items over 7-14 days
• Request consolidation once all arrive at warehouse
• Ship monthly consolidated packages to batch imports

Prohibited Items & Shipping Restrictions

Cannot Ship Internationally from Japan:

❌ Liquids over 100ml (beauty products, perfumes if large bottles) ❌ Aerosols (spray cans, compressed air) ❌ Batteries (lithium batteries have restrictions) ❌ Weapons (knives, replica swords) ❌ Counterfeit Goods (seizure risk at US customs)

Restricted Items (Possible but require special handling):

• Lighters (additional fees)
• Electronics with batteries (declare properly)

Always check: Buyee flags prohibited items during purchase. If unsure, message Buyee support before ordering.

Customs, Duties & Import Regulations

Understanding US import rules prevents surprises:

US Import Duty Thresholds ($800 De Minimis)

De Minimis Rule: Personal imports valued under $800 are duty-free and tax-free.

Critical Details:

• Per Shipment: Each package under $800 qualifies (can receive multiple $800 packages daily)
• Declared Value: Based on customs declaration (item value + intl shipping)
• Not Retail Value: Declared value is what you paid, not what item worth in US

Practical Application:

• Order ¥100,000 ($670) worth of items in single package: Duty-free
• Order ¥150,000 ($1,000) in single package: Subject to duties on full amount

Strategy: Structure orders to stay under $800 per shipment. If ordering bulk inventory, split into multiple shipments.

Declaring Package Value Correctly

Customs Form Requirements: Proxy services handle customs forms, but you verify:

Accurate Declared Value:

• Item purchase price
• International shipping cost
• Total = Declared Value

Example:

• Items: ¥90,000 ($600)
• Intl Shipping: ¥15,000 ($100)
• Declared Value: $700 (under $800, duty-free)

Undervaluation Risk: Declaring $200 package as “$50” to avoid duties:

• Illegal (customs fraud)
• Seizure risk if caught
• Insurance void (insurance based on declared value)

Never undervalue. Risks far exceed potential duty savings (which are often $0 under de minimis rule anyway).

CBP Inspections & Delays

US Customs and Border Protection randomly inspects imports:

Inspection Process:

• Package flagged for inspection
• CBP opens, examines contents
• Verifies compliance with regulations
• Releases or seizes

Typical Delays: 3-7 days if inspected (normal processing)

Inspection Triggers:

• Random selection (unavoidable)
• High value declarations
• Suspicious item descriptions
• Sender countries with counterfeit concerns

Minimal Concern If:

• Declared value accurate
• Items legal/non-counterfeit
• Proper documentation

What Happens If Item Seized:

• Receive seizure notice from CBP
• Explanation of violation
• No refund from seller/proxy (you assumed import risk)
• Possible penalties if counterfeit goods

Prevention: Only import legitimate goods, declare accurately, research prohibited items.

Restricted Items (Agricultural, Counterfeit Risks)

USDA Agricultural Restrictions:

• Wood products (certain woods prohibited)
• Seeds, plant materials
• Soil contamination (used shoes sometimes flagged)

Counterfeit Goods:

• CBP seizes counterfeit designer items
• “Replica” or “inspired by” items also subject to seizure
• Includes counterfeit electronics (fake Nintendo products)

Intellectual Property:

• Bootleg anime merchandise (unlicensed)
• Counterfeit trading cards

Best Practices:

• Research target items for import compliance
• Avoid obviously counterfeit goods
• When in doubt, don’t import

Reselling Imported Japanese Goods in the US

Successfully importing is half the equation; selling is the other:

Best Platforms for Japanese Imports (eBay, Grailed, Depop)

eBay (Best for Most Categories):

• Vintage denim/Americana: Huge buyer pool
• Electronics/cameras: Collector demand
• Anime figures: Dedicated collector community

Pros: Largest reach, reliable sales Cons: 13% fees

Grailed (Best for Fashion):

• Japanese streetwear (Bape, Undercover, Kapital)
• Vintage designer
• High-end denim

Pros: Fashion-focused audience, lower fees (9% + 3% payment) Cons: Smaller buyer pool than eBay

Depop (Best for Budget-Conscious Gen Z):

• Affordable vintage ($20-60 range)
• Streetwear
• 90s/Y2K fashion

Pros: Young engaged audience, social features Cons: Lower price points, gen Z price sensitivity

Mercari US (Fastest Turnover):

• Mid-range items ($ 30-100)
• Casual buyers
• Fast flips

Pros: Low fees (12.9%), simple interface Cons: Haggling culture, less serious collectors

Platform Strategy: List high-value items ($150+) on eBay and Grailed. List affordable items ($30-80) on Depop and Mercari US.

Pricing Strategy: US Market Research

Research BEFORE Importing:

Check Sold Listings:

• eBay: Filter “Sold Listings”
• Grailed: View sold data if available
• Depop: Check sold items (if public)

Price Points to Target:

• Vintage Levi’s: $55-95 (your landed cost ~$40-50)
• Japanese streetwear: $180-400 (your landed cost ~$80-200)
• Anime figures: $50-150 (your landed cost ~$25-70)

Pricing Formula: Landed Cost × 2.5-3.0 = List Price

Example:

• Landed cost: $45
• List price: $110-135
• After 13% eBay fees + shipping: Net $85-105
• Profit: $40-60

Testing: List first few items slightly above market average. If no movement in 10 days, reduce 10%. Find price point where items sell within 2 weeks.

Marketing Japanese Authenticity & Uniqueness

Listing Copy Angle:

Emphasize Japanese provenance:

Example - Vintage Levi’s: ❌ Generic: “Vintage Levi’s 501 jeans size 32”

✅ Optimized: “Rare Japan Market Levi’s 501 Selvedge Denim Vintage 1990s 32x32 Made in USA (Sourced from Japan)”

Why This Works:

• “Japan Market” signals quality
• “Sourced from Japan” creates authenticity narrative
• Japanese market Levi’s often better condition

Example - Japanese Streetwear: ✅“Bape Full Zip Hoodie (Japan Exclusive Colorway) Authentic Size L”

Narrative Marketing: “Sourced directly from Japan’s exceptional secondhand market where meticulous care ensures premium condition…”

Buyers pay premiums for authentic Japanese provenance. Make it central to your brand.

Handling Japanese Sizing Questions

Proactive Sizing Strategy:

Always Include:

• Measurements (chest, length, shoulders for tops; waist/inseam for bottoms)
• Size comparison (“Japanese XXL = US L-XL”)
• Disclaimer: “Sizes run smaller than US sizes; please verify measurements”

Example Listing Section:

SIZING NOTE: This is Japanese sizing which runs smaller than US sizes.
Tagged Size: L (Japan)
Equivalent US Size: Medium

Measurements (Flat Lay):
- Pit to Pit: 21"
- Length: 27"
- Shoulders: 18"
- Sleeves: 24"

Prevents Returns: Clear sizing info reduces “doesn’t fit” returns (your #1 return reason otherwise).

Competitive Advantage: Rare Inventory Sources

Differentiation Strategy:

Most US vintage resellers source from US thrift stores, competing for same inventory. You source from Japan—different inventory pool.

Marketing Angles:

• “Rare Japan-sourced vintage”
• “Authentic Japanese street fashion direct from Tokyo”
• “Curated from Japan’s premium secondhand market”

Niche Building: Specialize in specific category:

• “Japan-sourced vintage Americana specialist”
• “Authentic Japanese streetwear imports”
• “Rare Japfanese Nintendo collectibles”

Specialization builds reputation, repeat customers, and pricing power.

Avoiding Copyright & Trademark Issues

Risk Areas:

Bootleg Merchandise:

• Unlicensed anime goods
• Fake Nintendo products
• Counterfeit designer items

Trademark Violations:

• Using brand names improperly in titles
• Selling counterfeit as authentic

Platform Consequences:

• eBay/Grailed will remove listings
• Repeated violations → account suspension
• Counterfeit sales → permanent ban

Protection:

• Only source authentic licensed goods
• Disclose any “inspired by” or “style” items honestly
• Never claim counterfeit as authentic
• Research brands before importing

Find the Best Platform for Japanese Imports
Underpriced shows where Japanese fashion, electronics, and collectibles sell for top dollar in the US market.

(Due to length constraints, I’ll continue with remaining sections in next response…)

Conclusion: Building Your Japan Import Business

Japan import arbitrage offers genuine profit potential for resellers willing to navigate proxy services, international shipping, and product selection complexity. The price differentials are real, the inventory is abundant, and the market remains underexploited compared to domestic resale arbitrage.

Your First 30 Days:

Week 1: Research & Education

• Study Mercari Japan through Buyee
• Identify 2-3 product categories matching your interests
• Research US market values for target items
• Create spreadsheet for cost/profit tracking

Week 2: First Test Orders

• Order 3-5 low-risk items (vintage tees, small accessories under ¥5,000 each)
• Practice navigating Buyee, Mercari Japan, shipping process
• Total investment: $100-150 (manageable risk)

Week 3: Await Shipment & List

• Items arrive (EMS: 10-14 days typically)
• Photograph, measure, list on eBay/Grailed
• Track time invested vs. eventual profit

Week 4: Analyze & Scale

• Calculate actual landed costs vs. projections
• Assess which items sold fastest
• Identify most profitable categories
• Place second larger order (10-15 items)

Scaling Path (Months 2-6):

• Refine product selection based on sell-through data
• Increase import frequency (weekly → biweekly orders)
• Build relationships with specific niches (vintage denim OR streetwear OR figures)
• Optimize shipping (consolidation, volume discounts)
• Target $500-1,500 monthly profit by month 6

Long-Term Strategies (6+ Months):

• Develop Japanese seller relationships (direct purchasing beyond Mercari)
• Visit Japan sourcing trips (if volume justifies travel)
• Wholesale to retail shops (selling inventory in bulk)
• Build branded presence as “go-to” source for specific import category

Japan import arbitrage isn’t passive income—it requires research, patience navigating language barriers, and willingness to manage international logistics. But for resellers seeking underexploited inventory sources with meaningful profit margins, few opportunities rival direct access to Japan’s exceptional secondhand market.

Start small, validate the model, then scale systems. Your Japan import business begins with one Buyee order. Place it today.