Every country has its own import rules, and depending on where you live, your order from Japan may be subject to local duties, VAT, or other taxes upon arrival.

These charges are set by your country’s customs authority or delivery carrier — not by The Wabi Sabi Shop.

We want to make this process as clear and smooth as possible, so you know what to expect.

 

 

What to Expect

Most countries apply taxes or import duties once an order exceeds a certain value.

Below are general guidelines for some of our most common destinations:

• United States — As of Aug 29, 2025, low-value imports no longer qualify for duty-free “de minimis” entry. All shipments may incur U.S. duties/taxes, collected by the carrier or customs on arrival (limited exceptions apply, e.g., small bona-fide gifts). We’re preparing DDP (pay duties at checkout) to simplify U.S. deliveries.
• Canada — GST/HST/PST may apply; duties are added for higher-value items.
• Australia & New Zealand — 10 % GST applies to all imports; duties may apply over AUD 1,000 / NZD 1,000.
• European Union / UK — VAT applies to all imports; additional duties for orders above €150 / £135.
• Singapore & Hong Kong — Generally duty-free, but a small handling fee may apply.

(These are reference points — your local customs office always provides the most accurate, up-to-date information.)

 

 

Payment of Duties

If your country collects import duties or taxes, payment will be requested by your local customs office or the delivery carrier when the parcel arrives.

The payment is made directly to them, not to us.

 

We’re preparing to introduce a pre-collected duties and taxes (DDP) system soon, allowing you to pay these fees at checkout for a smoother delivery experience.

Until that update is live, import fees — if any — will continue to be paid upon delivery.

 

 

If a Package Is Returned

If customs fees remain unpaid and your package is returned to us, we’ll refund the product cost once it arrives back in Japan in good condition.

Shipping costs cannot be refunded, and if you’d like it reshipped, a new shipping fee will apply.

 

 

Helpful Resources

For the most accurate and current information, please refer to your country’s customs office:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
• Australian Border Force (ABF)
• EU Taxation and Customs Portal
• Singapore Customs

 

 

Contact

If you have questions about import duties, taxes, or your order’s delivery, please reach us at info@wabisabi-jp.com.

We’ll be glad to help.

 

 

The Wabi Sabi Shop

Yokohama, Japan