Important Update for US Customers: Shipping & New Import Duties

Banzai Hobby
Important Update for US Customers: Shipping & New Import Duties

Please note, this is for US Customers Only

Last Updated: August 25, 2025

Please be aware of significant changes to US import rules effective August 29, 2025. The US government has suspended the "de minimis" exemption that previously allowed low-value items (under US$800) to be imported duty-free from Japan.

This means all shipments to the US, including those from our store, are now subject to import duties and taxes. The specific procedures for paying these fees on shipments handled by Japan Post and USPS (e.g., EMS, Air Small Packet, Surface Mail) are still unclear. This uncertainty may cause significant delays or disruptions for standard mail services. Therefore, we are temporarily suspending all shipments to the USA via Japan Post until the situation is clarified.

Key Points for Your Order:

  • New Charges: For all orders shipped to the US, any applicable import duties and taxes are the buyer's responsibility.

  • Suspended Japan Post Service: Due to potential new flat-rate fees and an unclear customs process, we have paused all shipments to the US via Japan Post (EMS, Air, Sea).

Your Shipping Options for New Orders:

  • Express Shipping (Recommended): We can ship your order via a courier like FedEx or DHL at no extra shipping cost to you (we will cover the difference from the standard EMS cost). These carriers handle customs efficiently and will contact you directly to pay any duties.

  • Hold Your Order: We can safely store your entire order at no extra charge until the shipping situation becomes clearer.

We are monitoring the situation closely and implementing new features for US customers. 

We will provide updates as we learn more. Thank you for your understanding.

For Orders Already Shipped

If your order has already been shipped using Japan Post, please be aware of the following important information regarding delivery to the United States.

1. Expect Significant Delays
Your parcel will be processed under the new U.S. customs rules. As the procedures are still unclear, we anticipate major delays and disruptions while USPS and customs authorities adapt.

2. Potential for Holding or Return
There is an increased risk that parcels could be held by U.S. Customs or returned to us due to confusion over how new import duties should be paid.

3. What You Can Do

  • If your tracking information shows no updates for a significant time, please contact our support team with your order number.

  • We will then submit an investigation request to Japan Post on your behalf.

  • Please note: We cannot take any action or make decisions until we receive the results of this investigation from USPS/Japan Post. This process has no fixed timeframe and can take up to 2-3 months.

4. A Request for Your Patience
We understand that this situation is incredibly frustrating. We are just as frustrated and concerned and are actively seeking guidance and clarity from Japan Post / USPS.

Please know that our team wants to resolve this for you, but this issue is caused by factors entirely beyond our control. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate these external challenges together.

We will update you as soon as we have more information. Thank you for your patience.

— The BanzaiHobby Team