Bringing cards home from Japan

Cards are light, but they bend and scratch easily, and expensive ones are worth protecting. Here is how to get them home in the condition you bought them.

Protecting single cards

• Put each valuable card in a penny sleeve, then a toploader or a semi-rigid holder. Card shops and electronics stores sell sleeves (スリーブ) and toploaders (ローダー) cheaply.
• Store sleeved cards in a hard case or a deck box, not loose in a bag.
• Graded cards are already in a hard case; wrap them so the cases do not scratch each other.

Sealed boxes

• Keep boxes in their shrink wrap and pack them flat with clothes around them, so the corners do not crush.
• Booster boxes are bulky. If you buy several, plan suitcase space or buy a cheap extra bag.

Carry-on or checked bag?

• Keep expensive cards in your carry-on so they stay with you.
• If you bought tax-free under the refund system from November 1, 2026, keep the items with you until the customs check at the airport. See tax-free shopping.

Customs at home

Many countries charge duty or tax on goods above a personal allowance. High-value cards, graded slabs and multiple sealed boxes can go over it. Keep your receipts and check your country's rules before you buy.

Shipping

Japan Post sends parcels abroad from any post office. For valuable cards, choose a tracked and insured service and declare the contents correctly on the customs form.

Last updated 2026-10-06.