FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
About Rare Cards Japan
Q: Why should I buy from Rare Cards Japan instead of other sites?
You're buying from actual collectors who understand the Japanese TCG scene. We source directly from trusted distributors in Japan and dispatch everything worldwide with tamper-proof packaging. No proxies, no reseals, no middlemen adding mystery fees. You get Japan-exclusive sealed product at fair prices with clear communication every step of the way.
Q: Are your cards 100% authentic?
Yes. Every product we sell is factory-sealed and sourced directly from official distributors in Japan. We never buy from secondary markets or resellers. All boxes and cases come with original Bandai seals intact. If we can't verify authenticity, we don't sell it. It's that simple.
Q: Do you work with collectors and shops looking for bulk inventory?
Yes! We serve individual collectors, competitive players, and shops/breakers needing Japan-exclusive inventory. If you're looking to stock or resell, email us at info@rarecardsjapan.com to discuss bulk pricing and wholesale options.
Shipping & Delivery
Q: How long does shipping take to my country?
Shipping times vary by region:
- North America: 2–4 business days
- Europe: 2–5 business days
- Asia: 2–4 business days
- Oceania: 3–6 business days
- South America: 4–8 business days
These are estimates from dispatch to arrival. Customs inspections or peak seasons may add time. All shipments include tracking with FedEx, DHL, SF Express, or UPS, so you'll know exactly where your order is.
Q: How quickly do you ship orders?
In-stock orders ship within 1–2 business days. Pre-orders dispatch on or after the official release date. During peak seasons (major set releases) or holidays, handling time may extend slightly. We'll always give you a realistic date at checkout.
Q: What shipping options do I get at checkout?
You'll see express international carriers (FedEx, DHL, SF Express, UPS) with different speed/cost options. Choose what works for you. All shipments include tracking and insurance on the full order value, so your cards are protected.
Q: How are my cards packaged?
Your cards arrive in tamper-evident, factory-sealed boxes—exactly as they left Japan. We never open sealed product. We use protective outer packaging, tracking labels, and communicate updates until delivery. If anything arrives damaged, contact us immediately and we'll help.
Q: Do I need to pay customs fees or taxes on top of my order?
Yes—most likely. Import taxes, VAT, duties, or customs fees are not included in your checkout price. Your courier (FedEx, DHL, UPS) will collect these charges when your package arrives.
What you pay at checkout: Product price + shipping only.
What you pay at delivery: Any import taxes/duties your country charges.
Examples by country:
- 🇺🇸 USA: Expect ~15% tariff at delivery
- 🇪🇺 EU: Expect 19-25% VAT + fees at delivery
- 🇨🇦 Canada: Expect GST/HST/PST + fees at delivery
- 🇦🇺 Australia: Expect GST and possibly duty at delivery
- 🇬🇧 UK: Expect ~20% Import VAT + fees at delivery
Check your country's customs website before ordering to get exact rates. The courier will contact you via email/SMS with a payment link to release your package.
Q: What if customs refuses my package or it gets returned?
If a package is refused or returned by customs, we cannot cancel the original order or issue refunds. This is why providing accurate information and checking your local customs website before ordering is important. When the courier contacts you for payment, please respond promptly to avoid delays or returns.
Q: I'm ordering for the first time—what should I do to ensure smooth delivery?
- Use your full legal name and complete address
- Include a reachable phone number
- Check your country's customs website for import rules on trading cards
- Choose expedited shipping if you need the order quickly
- Place your order early during peak seasons when stock moves fast
Product Details & Inventory
Q: What's the difference between a case, a box, and a pack?
You'll need to know these:
- 1 Case = 12 boxes
- 1 Box = 24 packs
- 1 Pack = 6 cards
So if you're buying a sealed case, you're getting 288 individual packs (12 boxes × 24 packs).
Q: Why is Japanese sealed sometimes unavailable, even right after release?
Japanese sets drop and sell out FAST. Stock disappears within hours, especially for highly anticipated sets. That's exactly why we exist—we hunt across Japan's distributors to secure stock when it's scarce. But yes, sometimes everything's gone. We prioritize pre-orders during major releases so you can guarantee your copy.
Q: What if I receive a damaged box or find an issue with my order?
Contact us immediately at info@rarecardsjapan.com or +852 7043 1090 with photos. We'll assess the damage and work with you on a solution. Because all shipments are insured, we can typically reship or refund depending on the situation.
Our Sourcing & Authenticity
Q: How do you guarantee these aren't resealed or counterfeit?
We source directly from official Bandai distributors in Japan. Every single box and case we handle is inspected for:
- Original Bandai factory seals
- Proper packaging materials
- Correct printing
- Serial numbers (when applicable)
We never buy from resellers, auctions, or secondary markets. If it doesn't pass our verification, it doesn't go in your order.
Q: Do you ever open boxes to check contents?
No. We keep all sealed product factory-sealed. The moment we open it, it's no longer sealed—so we don't. You get exactly what left Japan.
Q: Why do you source from Japan and not just resell from other distributors?
Japan gets exclusive product first and often has lower pricing on certain sets due to different market dynamics. We've built relationships with trusted local shops and distributors, which lets us secure stock you simply can't find outside Japan. Plus, buying locally means we're not adding extra middleman markups.
Contact & Support
Q: How do I reach you with questions?
Email: info@rarecardsjapan.com
Phone: +852 7043 1090
Hours: We respond to emails within 24 hours
For time-sensitive questions during major releases, calling is faster.
Q: Do you offer refunds?
Yes—our policy is straightforward. Check your Refund Policy page for full details, but we stand behind our products. If you receive something damaged or it doesn't match the description, let us know.