📢 DHL Shipping Resumes for U.S. Customers
Masaki SeikeShare
For many years, CSTOYS delivered to the United States primarily via Japan Post, which helped keep shipping costs low. In most cases, U.S. customers benefited from the de minimis rule (shipments under USD 800), and duties were not charged.
What Has Changed
- Before: Japan Post + de minimis rule → lower shipping cost and usually no duties for parcels under USD 800.
- Now: De minimis abolished → duties apply to all imports and customs processing may take longer.
- Impact: We can no longer provide the same “low-cost & duty-free” experience that many U.S. customers enjoyed.
Our Current Solution: DHL Express
To provide reliable and transparent delivery, we have resumed shipping to the United States via DHL Express. Here’s how your checkout and delivery will work:
- Product prices for U.S. customers include a 15% U.S. import duty equivalent (applied to product price).
- Shipping fees shown at checkout reflect DHL Express rates (plus a small packing fee).
- No unexpected charges upon delivery: duties are accounted for up front in pricing.
Why We Chose This Approach
Our ability to influence U.S. customs policy is limited. Within these constraints, prioritizing delivery reliability, predictable costs, and fewer surprises at the doorstep led us to reinstate DHL Express for U.S.-bound orders.
Official Notices & Resources
- Japan Post (International Mail) — Notice regarding U.S.-bound items (English)
- CSTOYS — U.S. Customs & Duties Policy
Quick FAQ
Q: Will I pay anything at delivery?
Q: Why did shipping and pricing change?
Q: Which carrier will you use?
Looking Ahead
We will continue to monitor U.S. customs regulations and global shipping conditions, and we will refine our approach as the situation evolves. Our mission remains the same: to deliver the excitement of Tokusatsu culture from Japan to fans in the United States and around the world.