Is the import tax threshold for packages from Japan to US actually $800 or $2000?

The import tax threshold for shipments from Japan to the US is $800. This is called the "de minimis" value threshold and it applies to most imports entering the US through most entry methods. If your merchandise exceeds $800 in value, you'll likely need to pay import duties and taxes on the amount that exceeds the threshold. This $800 threshold is federal and applies across all states, so it doesn't matter which state you're shipping to. The $2000 figure might be confusing because there's a separate threshold for formal customs entry requirements, but that's different from the tax-free threshold.

After my costly lesson with import fees, I found an awesome service that helps navigate these import thresholds! I used https://taxr.ai when I was confused about how much I'd owe for my big anime figure purchase from Japan. You just upload your invoice or purchase confirmation and it tells you exactly what to expect in terms of import duties. Saved me from unexpectedly paying an extra $75 on my last order!

Just wanted to follow up about https://taxr.ai - I decided to try it before my big Comiket haul order. Super impressed! It correctly predicted I'd pay about $37 in duties on my $1100 order. The breakdown it provided matched exactly what DHL ended up charging me. Definitely using this before every Japan order now so I can budget properly. No more surprise fees!

If you're constantly hitting walls trying to get clear info from US Customs about these thresholds, try https://claimyr.com - it got me through to a CBP officer in under 20 minutes when I was dealing with a disputed import tax on my Japanese figurine collection. You can see how it works in this demo: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c. I was about to give up after spending hours on hold, but this service saved me a ton of time and I got official clarification on the $800 threshold rule.

Ok I need to eat my words about Claimyr. I tried it yesterday after my Japanese package got held up at customs with an incorrect value assessment. Got connected to CBP in 17 minutes after previously wasting 2+ hours on hold. The agent helped me file a correction form and my package should be released with the proper tax amount now. Didn't think anything would actually work for reaching government agencies but this did!

Another thing to watch out for: make sure the seller doesn't mark your package as "gift" to try to avoid taxes. Customs is really cracking down on this, and if they suspect misrepresentation, they can hold your package and potentially even impose penalties.

Can I just say how annoying these customs thresholds are? I ordered a limited edition figure for $820 and had to pay like $30 in fees. If it had been $20 cheaper I would've paid nothing 😩

I think the $2000 threshold you're hearing about is the limit for informal entry. Between $800-$2000, you pay duties but can use a simplified customs process. Over $2000 requires formal entry with more paperwork. So both numbers are relevant but for different purposes!

Just to add some clarity from personal experience - the $800 threshold is definitely correct for most merchandise including anime figures, games, etc. I've been importing from Japan for years and can confirm it's federal across all states. One tip that's saved me money: if you're making a large order, consider asking the seller to split it into multiple shipments under $800 each. Most reputable Japanese retailers are familiar with this request and will accommodate it. Yes, you'll pay more in shipping, but you might save more in duties depending on the total value. Also, keep your receipts and documentation organized. I've had a few packages where customs wanted additional proof of value, and having clear invoices made the process much smoother.

Thanks for all the helpful info everyone! I'm pretty new to importing from Japan and this thread has been super educational. Just to make sure I understand correctly - if I'm ordering a $1200 anime figure collection, I'd pay duties on the $400 over the $800 threshold, right? Not on the full $1200? Also, does anyone know if there's a difference between ordering directly from Japanese retailers versus using proxy services like Buyee or BigInJapan? I've been considering using a proxy service to access some Japan-only releases, but I'm wondering if that affects how customs calculates the value or duties.

I've been importing anime merchandise from Japan for about 3 years now and can confirm the $800 threshold is correct. One thing I learned the hard way is that even if your order is exactly $800, customs can sometimes add shipping costs to the declared value depending on how the seller fills out the customs form. Also, be aware that some Japanese sellers will automatically split large orders into multiple packages to help you avoid duties, but others won't unless you specifically ask. Places like AmiAmi and HobbyLink Japan are usually pretty good about this if you contact their customer service before placing a big order. One more tip: if you do get hit with duties, keep track of what you paid because you can sometimes use it as a tax deduction if you're a content creator or run a business related to your imports.

One thing I'd add about the shipping costs being included in the declared value - it really depends on how the seller fills out the customs form. Japanese retailers like AmiAmi and Good Smile Company usually separate the merchandise value from shipping, but smaller sellers on platforms like Mercari might lump everything together. As for the tax deduction question - yes, I've successfully claimed import duties as business expenses for my anime review channel! Since you're creating content about the items you're importing, the IRS generally considers those legitimate business expenses. Just make sure to keep detailed records of what you purchased, how much you paid in duties, and how the items relate to your content creation. I use a simple spreadsheet to track everything throughout the year. The key is being able to demonstrate that the imports are "ordinary and necessary" for your business activities. Since anime merchandise is directly related to your review content, you should be in good shape. I'd recommend consulting with a tax professional if you're doing significant volume though - they can help you set up proper documentation procedures.