I heard that postal items with a customs value exceeding 200,000 yen require an import declaration

Ｑ I heard that postal items with a customs value exceeding 200,000 yen require a general import (tax) declaration.

Ａ For mail sent from abroad, parcels with customs value of 200,000 yen or less are subject to the official duty assessment system, and are inspected and taxed by Customs in the presence of Japan Post Co., Ltd.

For mail with a total customs value exceeding 200,000 yen, the self duty assessment system is applied, so the importer(the addressee) themselves must file an import declaration with Tokyo Overseas Mail Sub-branch Customs that has jurisdiction over the bonded area (international post office, etc.) where the postal items are stored. Thereafter, the mail cannot be received unless it undergoes customs examination and inspection, etc., the customs duties and taxes are paid, and an import permit is received.

You can request Japan Post Co., Ltd or another customs broker file an Import Declaration, but separate customs clearance fees may apply.

【c.f.】 6101 Outline of Customs Procedures for International Postal Items （Customs Answer）