Fast & Easy ACP + IOR
Services for Japan Imports
We help non-Japanese businesses legally enter the Japanese market through IOR & ACP support.
Talk to an ExpertAn Attorney for Customs Procedures (ACP / 通関手続代理人) is a Japan-based representative appointed by foreign importers to handle customs declarations and communications with Japan Customs on their behalf. Since the October 2023 Japan Customs reform, all non-resident entities importing into Japan must either establish a local entity or appoint an ACP.
What is ACP Service & Why IOR is Required for Amazon FBA Japan?
ACP is a legal requirement for non-Japanese businesses that want to import products into Japan. Without an ACP, you cannot ship your products to Amazon FBA Japan.
- Japan does not allow foreign businesses to act as Importers of Record (IOR)
- ACP handles communication with Japan Customs & brokers
- Ensures your shipment complies with Japanese import laws
- Prevents shipment delays, penalties, and rejections
- Keeps required import records & responds to customs inquiries
Fashion and accessories
Enter Japan’s fashion and beauty scene with confidence.
Sports and outdoor products
Expand into Japan’s active lifestyle and healthcare market.
PC & phone accessories
Tap into Japan’s booming tech market with innovative accessories.
Daily necessities
Bring essential goods to Japan with expert distribution.
ACP vs IOR: What's the Difference?
| Feature | ACP | IOR |
|---|---|---|
| Legal role | Representative/agent | Legal importer on record |
| Who owns the goods | Client retains ownership | IOR assumes import liability |
| Best for | Amazon FBA, e-commerce, simple imports | Regulated goods, complex imports, ongoing operations |
| Cost structure | Lower (registration + per-shipment) | Higher (full compliance management) |
| Japan entity required | No | Yes (But No with Us) |
| Typical use case | Consumer goods via Amazon FBA | Medical devices, chemicals, electronics |
ACP REGISTRATION PROCESS
Step-by-step guide to ACP registration and importing into Japan.
1. Initial Eligibility Check
We review your product category, shipping volume, and compliance requirements to confirm ACP eligibility.
2. ACP Agreement & Documentation
Contract signing, company documentation collection, and power of attorney preparation.
3. Japan Customs Registration
Formal ACP registration submitted to Japan Customs. Approval typically takes approximately 2 weeks.
4. First Shipment Preparation
Invoice preparation, HS code classification, and customs documentation for your first shipment.
5. Customs Clearance & Delivery
Each shipment cleared and delivered to destination — Amazon FBA warehouse or other address in Japan.
ACP Pricing for Amazon FBA Japan
| Services | Fee (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| ACP Registration (One-time Fee) | $500 | Required for Japan Customs registration |
| Per Shipment ACP Support | $300 per shipment | Includes customs inquiries & documentation |
| 6-Month Plan | $2,200 | Unlimited shipments, +$300 for record-keeping |
| 1-Year Plan | $3,500 | Unlimited shipments, +$500 for record-keeping |
Prices are in USD. Government fees, customs duties, and consumption tax (10%) are pass-through at cost. No hidden fees.
Choose Your Plan & Start Importing TodayIOR & Import Consulting Services
Beyond Amazon FBA, we provide comprehensive IOR and import consulting for businesses of all sizes. Our experts guide you through Japan's complex import regulations, from initial compliance checks to full customs management.
IOR Consulting
We serve as your Importer of Record (IOR), taking on all legal responsibilities for importing goods into Japan so you don't need a local entity.
Import Compliance Review
Thorough review of your products against Japan's import regulations to prevent rejections, delays, and penalties before they happen.
Customs Documentation
Full preparation and management of all customs documentation — invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and more.
Import Cost Optimization
Detailed analysis of applicable duties, taxes, and fees to help you minimize import costs and maximize profitability in the Japanese market.
We also support general import and IOR consulting projects. Contact us to discuss your specific import requirements.
Book a Free Import ConsultationHandling Regulated, Hazardous, or Controlled Goods?
For dangerous goods, lithium batteries, medical devices, and export-controlled commodities, our dedicated IOR & EOR service assumes full legal responsibility — including shipments that standard freight forwarders decline.
Explore IOR & EOR Services→Basic Structure of ACP Services
- Appointment of the ACP
- Provide necessary information for ACP registration
- Assist with Regulations pre-check
- Documents preparation
- Record keeping
- Communications with stakeholders
- Assist with communication between customs brokers and Japan Customs
Customs Clearance, delivery the goods to destination.
*IOR: Importer of Record
Frequently Asked Questions
It will take approximately 2 weeks until getting an approval from Japan Customs Office.
- Prepare the necessary documentation between us
- Start pre-consultation with Japan Customs Office and proceed initial review
- Submit paper-based set of application documents to Japan Customs Office for final review
Not limited, but for instance - Power of Attorney, Company Registry, The calculation method of Customs Valuation, Catalog of the import goods, business/logistic flow
Any region in Japan, we can handle.
ACP is not the Importer. ACP enables non-resident entities to become IOR (Importer of Record)
OUR POSTS
Importing Dangerous Goods to Japan — IATA, IMDG & Regulatory Compliance Guide 2026
Lithium Batteries, Compressed Gases, Chemicals, and Hazardous Materials: What Japan Requires Before Your Shipment Clears Customs
Japan HS Code Classification — Determine the Right Tariff Code for Your Imports
Why the Wrong HS Code Costs More Than Just the Duty Rate
When Your Import Is Too Complex for a Standard ACP
Most ACP providers handle customs declarations. But when your shipment triggers FEFTA, Radio Act, or HS advance rulings — standard ACP stops and regulatory execution starts.
IOR vs ACP — Which Do You Need for Japan Imports?
Choosing the wrong import structure in Japan can cost you millions of yen in unrecoverable tax. Here's how to decide between IOR and ACP — and when you need both.
Non-Resident IOR vs. Full Entity — Cost-Benefit Analysis
When to Stay Light with ACP, When to Incorporate, and How to Calculate the Break-Even
Product Compliance for Non-Resident Importers — PSE, PSC & Food Safety
Japan's Mandatory Safety Marks and What Changed in December 2025
E-Commerce IOR — Selling on Amazon Japan & Rakuten as a Non-Resident
Why Amazon Won't Be Your Importer, and How ACP Solves It
ACP — Attorney for Customs Procedures
Mandatory Since October 2023 for Non-Resident Importers. When You Need ACP vs. Full Incorporation.
IOR & EOR in Japan — Enter the Market Without an Entity
Test Japan Demand Before Full Incorporation: Importer of Record and Employer of Record Explained
Enjoy Privilege
A gateway for visionary entrepreneurs and distinguished executives. More than mere permission, this esteemed visa is a testament to your commitment to excellence, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection that Japan embodies.
Learn MoreLet’s Help You Import to Japan
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