Your guide to balikbayan boxes from Japan to the Philippines

As the unboxing begins, a flurry of excited voices echoes across the miles. Each item pulled from the balikbayan box—a colorful shirt, a box of treats, a familiar brand of coffee—is greeted with joy. Often, the sender, an OFW in Japan, is on a video call, narrating the contents: 

"The jacket is for Tatay," they'd say, pointing to a carefully wrapped item. "And that one, the pink bag, is for bunso." 

More than just a cardboard packaging box, the balikbayan box is a tangible piece of home, a symbol of love bridging the distance. Sending these packages filled with Japanese products is a deeply cherished tradition, yet navigating customs and ensuring smooth shipping from Japan to the Philippines can have its complexities. 

To make this heartfelt connection seamless, we’ll show you how to send a balikbayan box from Japan to the Philippines. Learn practical tips and essential information to ensure that your gifts will reach your loved ones safely.

Preparing your balikbayan box for shipment success

Preparing your balikbayan box with care is the first crucial step in ensuring your heartfelt gifts arrive safely in the Philippines from Japan. After all, proper packaging protects the contents during their journey while helping to smoothen the customs process. When you pack your gifts for shipping, consider these tips to ensure that they are well-prepared for the journey: 

Choosing the right box and packing materials

Selecting a sturdy corrugated cardboard box is important to ensure that it can withstand the rigors of international transit. Also, check if the box is in good condition and free from tears or damage. 

At the same time, appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and foam inserts should be used to cushion fragile Japanese products or items while preventing movement within the box. To maximize space in your balikbayan box, consider wrapping items individually and fitting them snugly together, using every available gap.

Creating an inventory list

A detailed inventory or packing list is essential to ensure that your balikbayan box will pass through the Bureau of Customs in the Philippines without a hitch. This list should accurately describe each item you intend to send from Japan and its estimated value. 

Additionally, make sure that you provide clear and truthful descriptions to help customs officials process your balikbayan box efficiently and avoid potential delays. You can keep a copy of this list for your records and attach another copy securely to the outside of your balikbayan box.

Properly sealing and labeling the box

To prevent any loss or damage when shipping from Japan to the Philippines, you need to seal your balikbayan box securely. Whether you’re sending a small cardboard box or a jumbo box, you need to use strong packing tape to seal all seams and edges thoroughly. For the bottom and the top, it would be ideal to add multiple layers of tape to protect the surface.

Once you’re done sealing the box, clearly label it with the complete name and address of both the sender in Japan and the recipient in the Philippines. Also, include a contact phone number for both parties.

Navigating customs and regulations 

Knowing the customs regulations is also a critical step in ensuring your balikbayan box’s smooth journey from Japan to the Philippines, and here are some essential details you should remember:

Essential Bureau of Customs rules on balikbayan boxes

To get exempted from the payment of duties and taxes, it’s important to adhere to the Bureau of Customs rules on balikbayan boxes¹. So, make sure you meet the following:

• The total value of the contents should not exceed PH₱150,000. 
• The box must contain personal and household effects only.
• The contents of the box should not include items in commercial quantities or intended for barter, sale, or hire. 

At the same time, know what you can’t put in the box. Remember, prohibited goods, restricted goods unauthorized by law or regulation, and regulated goods without the necessary permits are not allowed in balikbayan boxes. Examples of prohibited goods include misbranded items and products that infringe the Intellectual Property Code, such as product imitations².

Completing the necessary documentation

To facilitate the smooth processing of your balikbayan box through customs, it’s vital to complete the necessary documentation. The sender in Japan typically needs to submit the Information Sheet provided by the Bureau of Customs to the consolidator, along with a photocopy of their passport and an invoice or receipt if applicable³. 

The consolidator then takes responsibility for submitting these documents to the Bureau of Customs and the logistics company handling the shipping in the Philippines. At this stage, you need to ensure that the information you provide on all the required forms is complete and accurate. This way, you can avoid delays or complications during the customs clearance process. 

Avoiding delays and issues

To minimize the risks of delays or issues with your balikbayan box, it’s helpful to be proactive. As mentioned, ensure your inventory list is detailed and accurate and that you do not include any prohibited or restricted items.

Once your package is in transit, you can use a tracker to know its status. To know the progress of your balikbayan box within the Bureau of Customs, you can visit their website and use the BOC’s Parcel & Balikbayan Box Tracking System. Simply submit your Parcel Tracking Number and click “Search.” You can also open a ticket at the BOC Customer Care Portal for any follow-up inquiries on your package.

Tips for maximizing value and minimizing shipping costs

Sending a balikbayan box from Japan to the Philippines involves both practical considerations and cost management. To maximize the value you send while minimizing shipping costs, start with optimizing your packing. 

Carefully arrange items to utilize every inch of space within your cardboard packaging boxes. Also, wrap items individually and fit them snugly together, using softer items like clothing to cushion more fragile Japanese products. This efficient packing can potentially reduce the number of boxes you need to ship.

Additionally, consider researching insurance options for your balikbayan box. Depending on the value and personal significance of the items in your package, shipping insurance can be a worthwhile investment. 

For example, DHL Express offers shipment insurance that protects your valuable or personal shipments in the event they get misplaced, stolen, or damaged during their journey. With this service, you only have to pay 2% of the declared value to get coverage. 

Finally, take advantage of DHL Express's resources to plan your shipment budget effectively. For instance, you can use the free online shipping calculator to get an estimate of shipping fees.

Choosing the right shipping partner 

Selecting a reputable and reliable logistics partner is a critical decision when shipping your balikbayan box from Japan to the Philippines. So, consider factors beyond the price, especially since cheap services do not always bring the best value for your money.

Evaluate the company's track record, reliability, and the services they offer. And when you’re sending time-sensitive items, review whether the company provides a reasonable transit time for packages. At the same time, make sure that the provider can promise excellent customer service with responsive support and clear communication.

DHL Express has extensive experience in handling international shipments, ensuring your package travels safely and efficiently. Our advanced package tracker also allows you to monitor your balikbayan box every step of the way. Furthermore, our dedicated customer support team is available to assist with any inquiries or concerns you may have. With DHL Express, you can expect fast and dependable shipping, ensuring your thoughtful gifts reach your loved ones promptly.

Send your love through a balikbayan box

Sending a balikbayan box from Japan to the Philippines is a meaningful tradition. However, make sure that you carefully prepare your cardboard packaging boxes, understand customs regulations, and choose the right shipping partner to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience. 

Ready to bridge the distance and send your love home? Ship with DHL Express and ensure your balikbayan box reaches your family and friends safely.