Exporting medical equipment to Japan is really a careful job. Careful consideration shall be taken at each step to ensure safe and smooth customs clearance of goods. This guide will take you through the entire sea transportation process in plain language, avoiding the common "pit".
1、 Complete the "homework" before exit
Compliance is paramount before equipment is packaged and shipped.
Confirmation of access qualification: Be sure to confirm whether your medical device has been approved for marketing by PMDA (Independent Administrative Agency for Integrated Management of Pharmaceutical Products and Medical Devices) in Japan. This is the "passport" for customs clearance, without which goods cannot enter the Japanese market.
Prepare technical documents: prepare complete equipment technical documents, including product specifications, instructions (in Japanese), test reports, etc. These documents may be required not only for customs clearance, but also for Japanese market surveillance.
Define HS code: accurately determine the HS code of Japan Customs for your equipment. This is directly related to the tariff rate and regulatory conditions, and it is recommended to confirm with a professional customs broker or logistics service provider to avoid classification errors.
2、 Professional packaging and labeling to eliminate transportation damage
Medical devices are often sophisticated and expensive, and packaging is the first line of defense for safety.
Moisture-proof and shockproof packaging: use solid wooden box or pressure-resistant carton, and use shockproof materials (such as foam and air column) to fully fill the interior. For precision instruments, it is recommended to use a moisture-proof box and place desiccant. Due to the Japanese climate, moisture protection is particularly important.
Wood Packaging Fumigation: If wood packaging (such as wooden boxes, wooden pallets) is used, it must comply with International Phytosanitary Standards (IPPC marks), or it must be fumigated and provided with certificates, otherwise it may be required to be handled or destroyed at the port of destination, resulting in additional costs.
Clear identification: Fragile, moisture-proof and upward signs shall be pasted on the outer package. At the same time, the information of the consignee and the consignor, the number of pieces of goods, weight and dimensions, etc. shall be accurately marked for the convenience of verification.
3、 Booking and transportation by sea with reliable partners
Selection of professional freight forwarder: it is essential to select an international freight forwarder with rich experience in handling the export of medical equipment. They can provide professional transportation scheme, assist in handling documents and communicate transportation status in time.
Transportation insurance: Due to the high value of medical equipment, it is strongly recommended to purchase comprehensive marine insurance to avoid possible accidental loss during transportation.
4、 Japan customs clearance, details determine success or failure
This is the most critical and easy link to issue.
Entrusted Japanese importers: customs clearance is usually handled by Japanese importers or their designated customs broker. You are required to provide complete and accurate documents, including commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, etc.
Special document preparation: for medical equipment, Japan Customs may require to check special documents such as free-selling certificate. Please communicate the list of materials required with your importer in advance.
Exact Declared Value: The value of the goods on the invoice must be declared truthfully. Once being verified by the Japanese Customs, the low reported value of goods will face serious consequences such as fines and goods retention, and affect the reputation of the enterprise.:.
The core of medical equipment export to Japan is "early compliance confirmation+mid-term safe transportation+later-stage customs clearance cooperation". Keep close communication with customers, select professional logistics service providers and ensure the accuracy of each document, so as to avoid risks to a large extent and make your equipment arrive safely. Good export!
SERVICE