Whether you are importing electronics from Tokyo, buying Japanese hobby items, or receiving a gift from abroad, Japan Post is known globally for its efficiency and reliability. However, once an international package leaves Japan and enters your local postal system, understanding the tracking updates can get a bit tricky.
This guide breaks down how Japan Post tracking works, how to decipher complex customs and international transfer statuses, and what to do if your package is delayed.
How to Track Your Japan Post Package
Japan Post handles a variety of services, from domestic parcels (Yu-Pack) to international services like EMS (Express Mail Service) and Registered Airmail.
Tracking Methods:
Japan Post Website: Visit the official Japan Post Track & Trace Service.
Your Local Postal Service: Because Japan Post partners with local carriers for final delivery, once an international package clears customs in your country, it is best to track it using your domestic postal service (e.g., USPS in the US, Royal Mail in the UK, or Australia Post).
The Japan Post Tracking Number Format
Make sure you are entering the correct tracking format into the search bar.
International Mail (EMS, ePacket, Registered Mail): International tracking numbers use the standard UPU 13-character format:
- Starts with 2 letters: Indicating the service type (e.g., "EM" or "EE" for EMS, "RX" for registered mail).
- Followed by 9 digits: (e.g., 123 456 789).
- Ends with "JP": Indicating the origin country is Japan.
- Example: EM 123 456 789 JP
Domestic Mail (Yu-Pack): For packages moving within Japan, the tracking number is usually an 11 to 12-digit number without any letters. Note: Enter the number without any hyphens on the tracking page.
Deciphering Japan Post Tracking Statuses
International shipping involves multiple handoffs. Here is what the major Japan Post tracking milestones actually mean:
- Posting/Collection: Your package has been picked up by Japan Post or dropped off at a Japanese post office.
- Arrival at outward office of exchange: The package has reached the international airport in Japan and is preparing to be loaded onto a flight.
- Dispatch from outward office of exchange: Your package is officially on a plane and has left Japan. This is often the longest stage without an update. Tracking will not update again until the destination country scans it.
- Arrival at inward office of exchange: Excellent news! Your package has landed in your country and has been scanned by your local postal service.
- Item presented to import customs: The package is currently waiting in line to be processed by your country's customs border control.
- Item returned from import customs: The package has successfully cleared customs and has been handed over to your local postal service for the final delivery leg.
- Processing at delivery Post Office: Your local post office has received the package and is sorting it onto a delivery truck.
Statuses That Require Your Attention
If you see these specific updates, you may need to take action:
- Retention: This means your local post office attempted delivery but was unsuccessful (usually because no one was home to sign for it). Solution: You must contact your local post office immediately or check your mailbox for a missed delivery card to arrange collection or redelivery.
- Held by import Customs: Customs is holding the package. Solution: This usually means there are unpaid import duties or taxes, or customs needs more information (like an invoice) to clear the item. Watch for a letter in the mail or a phone call from your local postal service regarding the next steps.
How to Solve Common Delivery Issues
If your Japan Post package is delayed, here are the best steps to take:
The "Stuck in Transit" Blackout Period: When a package is marked "Dispatch from outward office of exchange," it can take anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks for the next scan to appear, depending on the shipping method (EMS is fast; Sea Mail takes months) and flight availability. Be patient during this stage.
Switch to Local Tracking: The moment your package status updates to "Arrival at inward office of exchange," stop using the Japan Post website. Take your 13-character tracking number (e.g., EM123456789JP) and enter it into the tracking page of your local postal service (USPS, Royal Mail, etc.) for more accurate, real-time local updates.
Investigating Missing Items: If an EMS package has not arrived long past its estimated delivery date, you cannot open an investigation with your local post office. The sender must initiate an investigation from Japan Post. Contact the seller or sender and ask them to file a formal inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does Japan Post EMS take to deliver? EMS is Japan Post's fastest international service. Delivery typically takes between 2 to 7 business days, depending on the destination country and customs processing times.
What happens if I ignore a "Retention" status? If a package is held in "Retention" at your local post office and you do not collect it or arrange redelivery within the holding period (usually 14 to 30 days, depending on your country), the package will be returned to the sender in Japan.
Do I have to pay customs duties on Japan Post packages? Japan Post does not charge customs fees. Any import duties, VAT, or taxes are levied by your own country's government when the package arrives. You are responsible for paying these fees to your local post office before they will release the package.
