Equivalent quality of service

However, they do not have a monopoly on this point. For example, Electrocroissant has a customer satisfaction rate equal to the best Japanese stores on eBay (99.5% at this time).

Higher prices

Japanese prices is very good…

When you go on eBay, you see that items from Japanese stores come up first, at very competitive prices, even significantly cheaper than the local competition.

… before paying import taxes

However, the prices displayed do not always include import taxes and customs fees.

You will therefore be required to pay an amount proportional to the value of the order (value of the item + shipping + insurance)*.

*It depends on the country you’re living.

Prohibitive return shipping costs

In the vast majority of cases, return shipping costs for products imported from Japan are borne by the buyer, even if the seller made a mistake.

You will have to pay at least €30 to return the package to Japan. And this figure does not include the insurance you will have to pay and the formalities you will have to complete to get a VAT refund.

No right of withdrawal for products imported from Japan

Items purchased from European stores (except personalized products, of course) are covered by the 14-day right of withdrawal, allowing you to return an item without justification.

This right does not apply to Japanese sellers, who may refuse your return request without justification if they are not at fault.

Buy locally !

Unless the product is only available in Japan, whether in terms of rights or economics, buying from a Japanese seller is rarely the best option.