Key takeaways
- Set the delivery destination to Japan before searching.
- Compare the item price together with shipping, import costs and payment terms.
- Inspect actual front and back photographs as well as the condition description.
Open contents
Set the delivery destination to Japan first
Being able to view a listing does not mean the seller can ship it to Japan. On eBay, set the destination to Japan and check eligible countries, shipping origin, delivery service and shipping charges.
Check tracking and estimated delivery as well. If you use an overseas forwarding address, review the forwarding service’s charges and coverage in addition to the seller’s terms.
- Can the item be shipped to Japan?
- What are the shipping origin, delivery service and shipping charges?
- What tracking, delivery estimate and transit coverage apply?
Compare the total cost to receive the card
Divide your comparison into four parts: item price, international shipping, import costs, and the exchange rate or fees used for payment. A low listing price can become less competitive after shipping is included.
Depending on the shipping method, import charges may be paid at checkout or on arrival. Enter the Japanese delivery address and read what is included in the order-review total.
- Item price plus international shipping
- Import taxes or clearance charges and when they are payable
- Payment currency, exchange rate and applicable fees
Match the exact card before comparing
A player-name search also finds other years and series. Search with year + series + player + card number, then match the parallel and grading condition before comparing prices.
The two examples below can be identified by their years and numbers. Check that the listing information matches the actual photograph. Even a familiar picture can accompany a lot or a different grade, so read the description.
#153 / BaseView details & price history
#196 / BaseView details & price history
Enlarge both sides and all four corners
A raw card described as Near Mint is not a promise of a flawless surface. eBay’s condition guide discusses corners, edges, surfaces and other features separately. Look for whitening, scratches, creases and stains in front and back photographs.
If reflections hide possible damage, request photographs from another angle before buying. For a graded card, distinguish damage to the card from scratches on the holder.
- Do the photographs show both sides of the actual item?
- Can you inspect corners, edges, scratches and creases?
- Do the photographs and written description agree?
Check import and return terms before ordering
Taxes and clearance procedures depend on the item, taxable value and shipping method. If anything is unclear, check with Japan Customs or the carrier using the item description, price, shipping charge and delivery method, rather than relying only on the listing.
Read seller feedback, the return deadline, responsibility for return shipping and buyer-protection eligibility. On arrival, inspect the parcel and card. If there is damage or a mismatch, keep photographs and order details and contact the seller through the purchase platform’s process.