Business Background
A popular domestic play will be performed in Tokyo, Japan. The Japanese organizer of the play needs to transport all the props, costumes, and equipment required for the play from Beijing to Tokyo by sea, and then return all items to Beijing after the performance. After comparing various options, they contacted our company to provide door-to-door transportation services.
Business Process
Classification of props--Preparation of documents+special certification--Pickup in Beijing--Reinforcement of packaging+labeling--Advance booking 2 weeks booking - truthful declaration + submission of customs clearance - cooperation with inspection after arrival - tax payment and pickup - delivery to Tokyo Theater.
Attention for exporting performance props to Japan
1. Japan Customs stipulates that customs clearance should be carried out by local companies or individuals with the qualification of “Customs Broker”, and the consignee should provide a valid address, telephone number and contact person in Japan, which may be verified by Customs on the phone.
2. If the props involve brand design (such as anime IP character clothing), you need to provide genuine authorization, otherwise they may be destroyed due to infringement.
List of necessary documents for customs clearance
1、Commercial invoice: list the props name, material, quantity, value (unit price/total price), stamped with the official seal of the exporting company.
2、Packing List: Detailed labeling of the contents of each box, size, gross/net weight, to facilitate inspection.
3、Bill of Lading (B/L): the ocean bill of lading should be consistent with the customs declaration information, indicating the consignee and the notifying party.
4、Certificate of origin: If the props are produced in China, provide Form A or common COO, tariff preference may apply.
5、Special documents (depending on the type of props):
- Charged props (such as electronic lighting equipment): UN38.3 test reports, MSDS (Chemical Safety Data Sheet) are required.
- Containing liquid / paint props: composition safety statement to avoid containing alcohol or high-pressure spray.
- Wooden props: phytosanitary certificates (if containing log parts).
Packaging practice recommendations
1、Use shockproof materials (bubble wrap, customized foam lining), fragile parts are individually reinforced; the outer box is labeled with “stage props - fragile products” and direction marking.
2、Large props (set panels, frames) are disassembled and shipped in separate boxes, with assembly diagrams.
Cultural Compliance and Risk Avoidance
1. Content review: Avoid using sensitive cultural symbols such as Japanese shrines and samurai swords, or ensure that the design is not offensive.
2. Peak inspection period: Customs inspection rate rises from June to August, make sure that the name and quantity are exactly the same as declared.