Fittings shipment from Japan to US (by Fedex)

[Japan2112]

Probably well discussed already, but I wanted to give a positive update on a tsuba that was shipped to me from Tokyo on December 28 via Fedex.

It arrived here in the US (Florida) in 3 days, just an hour past it's estimated arrival time. Here are some helpful hints:

1. Be sure your contact info (phone, or email) is on the shipping address. Fed ex used it to contact me ahead of arrival at customs.

2. If merchandise value is above $2500. Fedex will ask you to complete a CPD 5106 document with your EIN or SS# - a registration via docusign. 

3. Although the seller had stated "antique over 100 years old" Fedex has  an Antiques Declaration Form" asking for a). a "circa" i.e. 17th c... and b). whether for resale or personal use. They also ask for confirmation of material (to make sure no ray skin, ivory...). Otherwise it's off to the Dept. of Wildlife at a big cost (A friend was billed $165. upon arrival for his tsuka examination)

4. Once Fedex has your email or phone they communicate fast, and have 24/7 communications in place to back up their agents' schedule.

5. Fedex had text'd me delivery updates, eliminating the need for me to inquiry tracking. 

 

There you have it.  You have to be prompt in your response as once Fedex contacts you as your item is less than 24 hours away from US customs, and Fedex's goal is to pre clear your item. I also can confirm that this fast shipping was not an anomaly. A friend has confirmed similar lead times.

 

BTW I understand that Fedex will not ship swords out of Japan, and UPS has had a number of cost and delivery issues.

 

Best,

 

Mark