How can you get Japanese trading cards shipped to the U.S.?

Published September 24, 2026 · By the Cards from Japan editors

Summary

Most U.S. buyers use a Japan-based store that ships worldwide, buy from a Japan-based seller on eBay, or use an official channel such as Premium Bandai's U.S. site for Bandai exclusives. Pokémon Center Online, the official Japanese Pokémon shop, delivers only within Japan. Both worldwide shippers covered here put customs duties and import taxes on the buyer.

Pokémon Center Online will not ship to you

Its delivery guide says it does not accept overseas deliveries and that orders can only go to addresses in Japan. A Japan-only item listed there cannot be sent straight to a U.S. address.

Buying from a Japan-based seller on eBay

Sellers in Japan list cards on eBay with the United States as a shipping destination, and the card travels straight from the seller by an international carrier such as Japan Post or FedEx. The listing itself states the shipping cost, the delivery estimate and whether import charges are collected at checkout or on delivery, and those figures vary by seller, so the listing is the final word. Store conditions in the next section are as of September 24, 2026.

How two worldwide shippers handle orders

Meccha Japan ships worldwide and charges preorders at purchase. If an order mixes preorders with in-stock items, the whole order waits until every item is available, and the store suggests placing separate orders if you want the in-stock items sooner. Shipping is priced by the package's weight and size, orders leave within 3 to 7 business days, and any customs fees are paid by the recipient, not collected by Meccha Japan.

TCG Republic also ships worldwide and charges reserved (preorder) items when you order, shipping them as soon as its supplier delivers; if the supplier cancels the product, the payment is returned. Standard shipping by Japan Post air, with no insurance or tracking, is free. Priority shipping with insurance and tracking costs $10 on orders under $80 and is free from $80. Handling takes 5 to 15 business days, then 2 to 3 weeks for standard or 5 to 15 days for priority. Any duty charged is the buyer's responsibility.

Bandai exclusives are sold by region

Premium Bandai runs a U.S. store. The GUNDAM CARD GAME 1st Anniversary Set (PB03), for example, was sold through Premium Bandai in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand at an MSRP of $139.99, with a release date of July 27, 2026. Bandai says regions without Premium Bandai get limited quantities through stores and distributors.

Sources

Details are as published on these pages on the date above and can change. Check the official page before you buy or submit.