Shipping from Japan to Los Angeles

The Japan to Los Angeles shipping route represents one of the most mature and reliable trade corridors in global commerce. This route connects Japan's advanced manufacturing base—the world's third-largest economy—with North America's largest consumer market and technology hub. The shipping lane is characterized by consistent capacity, competitive rates, and exceptional reliability.

Japan's export economy centers on high-technology and high-value products including automobiles, automotive components, precision machinery, electronics, chemicals, and specialty metals. These products move seamlessly through the LA/Long Beach port complex, which offers some of the most advanced container handling facilities in the world and direct rail access to all major North American markets.

The US-Japan trade relationship is underpinned by strong diplomatic and economic partnerships, modern free trade frameworks, and decades of established commercial relationships. This translates into smooth customs clearance, well-established documentation standards, and consistent shipping services with multiple carriers offering direct services daily.

Strategic Economic Alliance

The United States and Japan maintain one of the world's strongest economic partnerships, with bilateral trade exceeding $280 billion annually. This relationship is built on decades of cooperation, shared democratic values, and deep commercial integration. Major Japanese corporations operate extensive manufacturing and distribution networks throughout North America, while American technology and agricultural products flow in reverse through Japanese ports.

Trade Framework & Agreements

While a comprehensive bilateral Free Trade Agreement does not currently exist, the relationship benefits from:

• US-Japan Competitiveness Partnership: Ongoing framework for trade facilitation and economic cooperation
• High-level Political Engagement: Regular trade discussions between government officials facilitate smooth commerce
• Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO): Japanese government agency actively promoting mutual trade and investment
• International Economic Forum: Regular bilateral meetings addressing trade issues and removing barriers
• Security Alliance: The US-Japan Security Alliance underlies mutual commitment to stable trade relations

Manufacturing Presence

The integration of US and Japanese economies is deep. Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Mazda, and Daimler operate major manufacturing plants across the United States, producing millions of vehicles for the North American market. This two-way flow of components, vehicles, and parts creates a complex and active trade lane that benefits from stable policies and established practices.

Trade Facilitation

Both governments actively work to facilitate trade between their nations. Japanese customs authorities recognize US CBP procedures, and American customs processes are well-established for Japanese goods. The combination of modern ports, skilled customs personnel, and established procedures means goods move efficiently through the clearance process.

Yokohama (JPYOK)

Yokohama is Japan's busiest container port and the second-largest in Asia by container volume, handling over 9 million TEUs annually. Located approximately 25 miles south of Tokyo, Yokohama serves the massive Tokyo metropolitan area and the Kanto region's industrial base. The port features ultra-modern container terminals, massive gantry cranes capable of handling mega-container vessels, and extensive on-dock logistics facilities. Yokohama offers direct daily sailings to Los Angeles operated by major carriers, making it the preferred origin port for most shipments. The port's connectivity to Tokyo and the industrial Kanto plain makes it ideal for electronics, automotive components, and precision machinery exports.

Tokyo/Port of Tokyo (JPTYO)

The Port of Tokyo serves as Japan's primary international gateway and handles over 8 million TEUs annually. Located on Tokyo Bay, the port encompasses multiple container terminals and offers the most direct access to Tokyo's manufacturing and distribution base. While slightly less container-focused than Yokohama, Tokyo offers excellent connectivity for high-technology products and precision instruments manufactured in Tokyo and surrounding prefectures.

Kobe (JPUKB)

Kobe is Japan's third-largest container port, handling approximately 3 million TEUs annually. Located on Japan's Inland Sea, Kobe serves the Kansai region including Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo Prefecture. The port is a major export hub for machinery, steel products, specialty chemicals, and automotive components from western Japan. While slightly less frequent than Yokohama-LA services, Kobe offers competitive options with good frequency and reliable carriers.

Regional Alternatives

Japan operates numerous other container ports including Osaka, Nagoya, and Hachinohe. For cargo originating in specific regions, these ports may offer convenient access, though they typically require transshipment through one of the three major ports for direct LA services.

Port of Los Angeles (USLAX)

America's busiest container port, the Port of Los Angeles handles approximately 10 million TEUs per year and serves as the primary U.S. gateway for Asian imports, including Japanese goods. Located in San Pedro Bay, it features 27 cargo terminals, 82 container cranes, and extensive on-dock rail facilities. The port operates 24/7 with dedicated terminals for major carriers, offering expedited cargo processing for time-sensitive shipments. Direct rail connections via Union Pacific provide transcontinental service reaching Chicago in under 5 days.

Port of Long Beach (USLGB)

Adjacent to Los Angeles, Long Beach is the second-busiest U.S. container port and has invested heavily in modern infrastructure and environmental initiatives. The port's efficiency in container handling and strong rail connections make it an excellent alternative for Japanese shipments. Together, LA and Long Beach handle about 40% of all U.S. containerized imports and have well-established procedures for Japanese goods.

Strategic Advantages for Japanese Imports

• Direct daily sailings from Yokohama and other Japanese ports with consistent service levels
• Extensive warehouse and distribution facilities in Southern California and the Inland Empire
• Direct rail connections to major U.S. distribution centers via Union Pacific and BNSF
• Advanced technology infrastructure for cargo visibility and tracking
• Established customs processing for Japanese-origin goods with expedited clearance programs
• Foreign Trade Zone options for duty deferral and manufacturing operations

Regional Distribution

The LA/Long Beach complex connects to the entire North American market. Rail services reach:

• Chicago/Midwest: 4-5 days
• Dallas/South Central: 3-4 days
• Denver/Mountain West: 2-3 days
• Phoenix/Southwest: 1-2 days

Trucking services provide flexible distribution to all surrounding western states and beyond.

Dominance of Japanese Auto Sector

Automobiles and automotive components dominate Japan's exports to the United States, accounting for over $60 billion of the $280 billion bilateral trade relationship. Major manufacturers including Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Mitsubishi, and Daimler Japan all operate extensive manufacturing networks in North America and use West Coast ports as their primary Pacific gateway.

Manufacturing & Component Supply

The automotive supply chain between Japan and Los Angeles is highly sophisticated:

• Finished Vehicles: New automobiles manufactured in Japan for export to US dealers and distributors
• Engine & Transmission Components: Precisely engineered components for both Japanese-made and American assembly plants
• Specialty Electronics: Advanced navigation, infotainment, battery management, and autonomous driving systems
• Precision Bearings & Fasteners: Critical components for automotive assembly and maintenance

Port Selection by Auto Manufacturers

Japanese automakers have established strong preferences for West Coast ports:

• Toyota & Lexus: Primarily use Long Beach with some volumes through LA for North American distribution
• Honda & Acura: Concentrate shipments at Long Beach for Honda's North American logistics hub
• Nissan: Use both LA and Long Beach with secondary routing through other West Coast ports
• Mazda: Focus on Long Beach for efficient connection to distributor networks

Seasonal Patterns

Automotive shipments follow seasonal patterns tied to model year releases and dealer inventory cycles. Peak volumes typically occur in late summer and fall as new model year vehicles ship for dealer introduction. Spring and early summer represent lower volumes as dealers work through existing inventory.

Transit times from Japan to Los Angeles are among the most consistent and predictable in international shipping, typically ranging from 11-15 days for standard ocean freight. Understanding the factors affecting transit times helps optimize your shipping schedule:

Direct Services & Consistency

Most major carriers operate direct, fixed-schedule services from Yokohama to LA/Long Beach with sailings multiple times per week. This consistency differs from transshipment services common on other Asia-Pacific routes. Direct service routing and regular sailing schedules mean transit times are highly predictable.

Port of Origin Impact

Transit times vary slightly by origin port:

• Yokohama: 11-13 days for standard FCL service (fastest option)
• Tokyo: 12-14 days depending on terminal and carrier
• Kobe: 12-15 days due to southern routing around Japan

Carrier Selection

Major carriers operating this route include:

• Maersk (largest capacity and frequency)
• MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
• CMA CGM (strong Asia-Pacific network)
• Evergreen Marine (specialist on Asia-Pacific routes)
• ONE (Oriental Overseas Container Line)
• Hapag-Lloyd

Each carrier operates with consistent schedules and competitive service levels. Service reliability is exceptionally high on this mature route.

Seasonal Variations

Unlike volatile Asian routes, Japan-LA experiences minimal seasonal disruption:

• Peak Season (August-October): Higher volumes for holiday inventory may experience occasional minor delays, but direct services maintain schedules
• Year-Round Reliability: Direct services operate consistently throughout the year with minimal disruption
• Weather Impacts: Typhoon season in late summer/early fall can occasionally cause minor delays, but advance weather routing minimizes impacts

Vessel Size & Scheduling

Modern mega-container vessels (22,000 TEU+) operate on this route with advanced technology. These large vessels maintain strict schedules that rarely vary, ensuring predictable transit times for shippers.

Full Container Load (FCL)

FCL is the primary service for Japan-LA shipping due to the substantial volumes of manufacturing goods. Standard container types include:

• 20' General Purpose (TEU): Standard container suitable for most general cargo
• 40' Standard: Most common for automotive parts and machinery
• 40' High Cube: Additional height for machinery packaging and light, voluminous goods
• Refrigerated Containers (Reefer): For temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical and chemical shipments
• Open-Top & Flat Racks: Specialized equipment for oversized or heavy machinery

FCL offers the fastest transit times, lowest per-unit costs at volume, and best cargo security for automotive and machinery shipments.

Less than Container Load (LCL)

LCL consolidation services are available for smaller shipments, though less common given Japan's manufacturing focus on bulk exports. LCL transit times are slightly longer (15-20 days) due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes. LCL provides good economics for shipments under 10 tons and infrequent shippers.

Air Freight

For urgent shipments, air freight from Tokyo (NRT), Osaka (KIX), or other Japanese airports to LAX provides 1-2 day delivery. Air freight is essential for:

• Critical automotive components for manufacturing lines
• Replacement parts for vehicle recalls or emergency repairs
• High-value precision instruments with tight delivery windows
• Electronics and computer components with short lifecycle windows

While significantly more expensive than ocean freight, air's speed can justify costs for time-sensitive or high-value cargo.

Intermodal & Specialized Services

Some carriers offer specialized services combining ocean and inland transport:

• Ramp Service: Direct rail loading from container at LA/Long Beach for transcontinental movement
• Hub Port Consolidation: Consolidation of multiple shipments at Japanese ports for better economics
• Warehouse Services: Bonded warehouse options in Japan for consolidation prior to vessel loading

U.S. Customs Requirements

All cargo entering the United States from Japan must clear Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The process is streamlined for Japanese goods due to the mature trade relationship and established procedures:

• ISF Filing (10+2): Importer Security Filing required 24 hours before vessel loading in Japan. This filing includes importer and consignee information, container numbers, and bill of lading details
• Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods, unit values, and total values in USD. Must show Japanese origin and any tariff classification
• Packing List: Itemized list of contents by carton or container for customs examination purposes
• Bill of Lading: Carrier's receipt and contract of carriage showing all parties and cargo details
• Certificate of Origin: Certification that goods are of Japanese origin, often prepared by freight forwarder or exporter

Duty & Tariff Considerations

Japanese goods generally enter the United States at standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates:

• Automobiles: 2.5% standard rate on finished vehicles
• Auto Parts: 2.5-5% depending on specific classification
• Machinery: 0-5% depending on type and HTS classification
• Electronics: 0-5% for most components and finished goods
• Chemicals: 0-6.5% depending on specific product
• Steel Products: 0% standard rate (with some specialty exceptions)

Unlike Chinese goods subject to Section 301 tariffs, Japanese products enjoy standard treaty rates. This significant tariff advantage is a major factor in competitive Japanese exports.

No Safeguard Tariffs

Japanese products do not face the safeguard or retaliatory tariffs that apply to some trading partners. This stable tariff environment makes budgeting and cost planning predictable.

Product-Specific Requirements

Common Japanese exports have specific regulatory requirements:

• Automobiles: EPA compliance certification, DOT safety standards, VIN registration
• Automotive Electronics: FCC certification for wireless/transmission equipment
• Chemicals & Pesticides: EPA registration and environmental compliance documentation
• Pharmaceuticals: FDA manufacturing facility registration and import permits
• Medical Devices: FDA pre-market notification (510(k)) or approval
• Electronics: FCC certification for radio frequency equipment
• Optical Equipment: Various standards depending on intended use

Origin Marking Requirements

All goods must be marked with their country of origin ("Made in Japan") in a clear, conspicuous manner. This applies to finished products and often to packaging. Failure to properly mark goods can result in delays, penalties, or forced return to Japan.

Documentation Quality

Japanese exporters are known for meticulous documentation. The quality and accuracy of Japanese commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and technical specifications typically exceed those from other origins. This results in smoother customs clearance and fewer examination delays.

Ocean Freight Rate Components

Total ocean freight costs from Japan to LA include multiple components:

• Base Ocean Freight: Per-container rate from Japanese port to LA/Long Beach (typically $1,500-3,000 per 40' container depending on market conditions)
• Fuel Surcharges (BAF): Bunker Adjustment Factor reflecting bunker fuel costs, typically $200-800 per container
• Low Sulfur Fuel Surcharge (LSS): Additional charge for IMO 2020 low-sulfur fuel compliance, typically $100-300 per container
• Terminal Handling Charges (THC): Port fees at origin (Japan) and destination (Los Angeles), typically $300-600 per container
• Documentation Fees: Bill of lading and customs filing fees, typically $50-150 per shipment
• Chassis Fees: Container drayage charges at LA/Long Beach, typically $150-300 per container
• Peak Season Surcharges: May apply during high-demand periods, typically 10-20% additional charges

Rate Competitiveness

The Japan-LA route benefits from intense carrier competition with six major carriers offering service. This competition typically results in stable, competitive rates. Unlike over-capacity routes with volatile pricing, the Japan-LA lane maintains relatively predictable rate environments.

Cost Advantages of Japanese Sourcing

Several factors make the Japan-LA route cost-competitive:

• Direct services eliminate transshipment costs and delays
• No Section 301 tariffs apply (unlike Chinese goods)
• Stable, consistent ocean freight rates from established carriers
• Efficient port operations reduce cargo handling costs
• High-quality manufacturing reduces return/recall logistics costs

Volume & Contract Rate Optimization

Shipping companies and importers can optimize costs through:

• Volume Commitments: Annual or monthly contract rates for consistent volumes
• Service Contracts: Negotiated rates with carriers for guaranteed capacity and priority service
• Consolidation Services: Aggregating multiple smaller shipments for FCL economics
• Seasonal Booking: Booking off-peak to capture lower rates
• Carrier Relationships: Building long-term partnerships for improved pricing

Duty Optimization

Several strategies can optimize landed costs:

• Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) utilization defers or eliminates tariffs on goods stored or processed in FTZ areas
• Drawback programs recover duties on products subsequently exported
• Bonded warehouse services defer duties while goods are in inventory

Trade Volume & Significance

The Japan-Los Angeles trade lane is one of the world's most significant international commerce corridors, with over 15 million metric tons of goods flowing through LA/Long Beach ports annually from Japan. This represents approximately 8-10% of total LA/Long Beach cargo volume.

Historical Significance

This trade route has been a cornerstone of transpacific commerce for over 70 years, with established relationships, procedures, and infrastructure. Japanese companies pioneered many of the container shipping technologies now standard in global logistics.

Economic Impact

Japanese imports through LA/Long Beach support:

• Over 200,000 jobs in the automotive sector in North America
• Tens of billions in consumer spending on Japanese automobiles annually
• Massive supply chain supporting automotive manufacturing and distribution

Technological Leadership

Japanese manufacturers lead in several key technologies exported via the LA route:

• Hybrid and electric vehicle components and complete vehicles
• Automotive infotainment and autonomous driving systems
• Robotics and industrial automation equipment
• Precision optical and measurement instruments
• Advanced chemical products and pharmaceutical intermediates

Port Infrastructure

Both Japanese origin ports and LA/Long Beach destination ports operate some of the world's most advanced container handling infrastructure, featuring automated cranes, smart terminal systems, and real-time tracking technology.

Supplier & Partner Management

• Build Relationships: Japanese suppliers value long-term relationships and reliability. Establish clear communication channels and understand cultural business practices
• Production Schedules: Request monthly production updates and advance notice of shipments
• Quality Commitment: Japanese manufacturers are known for quality—clearly communicate your quality standards and inspection requirements
• Documentation Excellence: Ensure suppliers provide meticulous documentation. Japanese exporters understand this is critical for smooth US customs clearance

Shipping Planning

• Book Early: Secure container space 4-6 weeks in advance, especially for large-volume shipments
• Understand Incoterms: Clearly establish responsibilities with Japanese suppliers (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.). Many Japanese suppliers prefer CIF or DDP terms
• Invoice Accuracy: Ensure commercial invoices are accurate and detailed—Japanese customs authorities are meticulous about documentation
• Vessel Tracking: Utilize carrier tracking systems to monitor transit progress from Japanese port to LA arrival

Customs & Compliance Strategy

• Work with experienced customs brokers familiar with Japanese automotive and machinery imports
• Maintain detailed origin documentation to support tariff classifications and duty assessments
• Consider hiring a licensed customs broker at destination to expedite clearance
• Keep digital records of all documentation for potential customs audits

Logistics Optimization

• Consolidation Services: If shipping less than full containers, use consolidators who combine with other Japanese cargo for better pricing
• Rail Strategy: For Chicago, Dallas, or Denver destinations, utilize LA/Long Beach intermodal rail services rather than trucking for cost savings
• Buffer Planning: Although transit times are predictable, build 2-3 day buffer into delivery schedules for unexpected situations
• Relationship Building: Develop relationships with multiple carriers to ensure capacity and service options

Technology & Visibility

• Implement container tracking to monitor real-time location of shipments
• Use carrier portals for booking visibility and rate tracking
• Set up automated notifications for vessel arrivals and port activities
• Maintain digital documentation in cloud systems for easy access to customs brokers

Peak Season Preparation

• Anticipate peak season demand (August-October) by booking 2-3 months in advance
• Consider pre-positioning inventory at bonded warehouses near LA/Long Beach
• Coordinate with suppliers on production schedules to match seasonal demand
• Establish backup carriers and logistics providers for emergency capacity

Yokohama Port Performance

Container Volume: Over 9 million TEUs annually, making it Japan's largest container port

Facilities: Multiple ultra-modern container terminals with latest automation technology including automated container handling systems

Crane Capacity: Super-post-Panamax cranes capable of handling vessels over 20,000 TEU

Service Window: Multiple carriers operate daily sailings to LA with some carriers offering twice-weekly frequency

Operating Hours: Extended operating hours to accommodate peak season volume

Los Angeles Port Performance

Container Volume: Approximately 10 million TEUs annually

Terminals: 27 container terminals, each specializing in different carrier services

Crane Count: 82 container cranes with continuous modernization program

Rail Connectivity: On-dock rail facilities connecting directly to Union Pacific and BNSF transcontinental networks

Operating Efficiency: Average vessel turnaround time of 2-3 days with 24/7 operations

Technology: Real-time visibility systems including the Port of LA's Supply Chain Information Highway (SCIH) program

Long Beach Port Performance

Container Volume: Approximately 7-8 million TEUs annually

Modern Infrastructure: Heavy investment in modern container handling equipment and green initiatives

Rail Access: Direct connection to Alameda Corridor providing 20-mile express route to inland rail yards

Efficiency Rating: Known for among the fastest cargo handling times on the West Coast

Environmental Leadership: Advanced air quality measures and clean energy initiatives

1. What are typical transit times from Japan to Los Angeles?

Standard ocean freight transit times from Yokohama to LA/Long Beach range from 11-15 days for direct FCL services. This makes the Japan-LA route one of the fastest transpacific services available. Most major carriers maintain weekly or twice-weekly sailings with consistent schedules. Air freight is available in 1-2 days for urgent shipments, though at significantly higher cost.

2. What are the main differences between Yokohama, Tokyo, and Kobe ports?

Yokohama is Japan's busiest container port with the most frequent daily LA services (5-6 sailings per week from multiple carriers). Tokyo offers good access to manufacturing in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Kobe serves western Japan and may require slightly longer transit due to southern routing. For most shippers, Yokohama offers the best combination of frequency, efficiency, and competitive rates. Your supplier's location should generally determine port selection.

3. What is the difference between FCL and LCL from Japan?

Full Container Load (FCL) is the standard for Japan-LA trade due to the substantial volumes of manufacturing goods. FCL offers fastest transit (11-15 days), lowest per-unit costs for volumes of 10+ tons, and best cargo security. Less than Container Load (LCL) consolidates multiple shippers' goods, costing less per unit for small volumes but requiring 15-20 days transit due to consolidation/deconsolidation processes. Most Japanese exporters use FCL due to manufacturing volume levels.

4. Do Japanese goods face tariffs entering the US?

Japanese goods enter the United States at standard Most Favored Nation duty rates: 2.5% on automobiles, 2.5-5% on auto parts, 0-5% on machinery, and 0-5% on electronics. Unlike Chinese goods subject to Section 301 tariffs (7.5-25%), Japanese products enjoy these lower standard rates. This tariff advantage is a major factor in competitive Japanese imports to the US West Coast.

5. What documentation is required for Japanese shipments?

All Japanese shipments to the US require: (1) ISF Filing 24 hours before vessel loading, (2) Commercial Invoice with detailed product descriptions and values, (3) Packing List with itemized contents, (4) Bill of Lading from the carrier, and (5) Certificate of Origin certifying Japanese origin. Japanese exporters are typically meticulous about documentation quality, which results in smooth customs clearance. Your customs broker should manage these filings.

6. How do I optimize costs for Japan-LA shipping?

Several strategies can optimize costs: (1) Book 4-6 weeks in advance to secure competitive rates, (2) Consider consolidation services if not shipping full containers, (3) Use foreign trade zones to defer or eliminate tariffs, (4) Build long-term contracts with carriers for volume discounts, (5) Ship during off-peak periods when possible, and (6) Use bonded warehouse services to manage inventory costs. Cubic can help implement these strategies to optimize your total landed cost.

7. Which carriers offer the best Japan-LA service?

Major carriers serving this route include Maersk (largest capacity), MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), CMA CGM, Evergreen Marine, Oriental Overseas Container Line (ONE), and Hapag-Lloyd. All maintain consistent schedules with reliable service. Maersk and MSC offer the most frequent sailings (sometimes multiple per week), while others offer 1-2 sailings weekly. Service reliability is exceptionally high on this mature route, and rate differences are typically small. Selection often comes down to convenience of booking and vessel scheduling matching your requirements.

8. What happens if my shipment arrives during peak season?

Peak season (August-October) experiences higher volumes and slightly longer port dwell times (2-3 days vs. standard 2 days). Ocean transit times rarely change due to direct services and consistent schedules. However, port congestion may add 1-2 days to final delivery. To manage peak season risk: (1) Book 2-3 months in advance, (2) Pre-position inventory at bonded warehouses near ports, (3) Use express rail services for faster inland movement, (4) Build extra time into delivery schedules. The Japan-LA route experiences minimal disruption compared to other trans-Pacific lanes.

9. Can I track my shipment from Japan to Los Angeles?

Yes, most carriers offer real-time tracking through their online portals. You can typically track container numbers, vessel names, current location, and estimated arrival times. Advanced forwarders provide additional visibility through their own systems. Some carriers offer automated email or SMS notifications for vessel departure, arrival at LA/Long Beach, and container customs clearance. Ask your freight forwarder about specific tracking options when booking shipments.

10. What are typical costs for Japan-LA shipping?

Typical costs for Japan-LA shipping range from $1,500-3,000 per 40' container in base ocean freight, depending on market conditions and seasonal factors. Add terminal handling charges ($300-600), fuel surcharges ($300-800), documentation ($50-150), and drayage ($150-300) for total costs of approximately $2,300-4,850 per container. LCL consolidation costs typically range from $80-150 per ton. Air freight costs $3-6 per kilogram. Working with a freight forwarder helps optimize these costs through volume negotiations and routing strategies.

11. What if my shipment needs specialized handling?

Specialized handling is available for various cargo types: (1) Oversized machinery uses open-top or flat-rack containers, (2) Temperature-sensitive goods use refrigerated containers, (3) Hazardous materials require specialized containers and documentation, (4) High-value products can be stored in bonded warehouses with additional insurance. Japanese ports are equipped with specialized handling equipment. Notify your shipper and freight forwarder in advance of any special requirements so appropriate equipment can be arranged.

12. How do I choose between air and ocean freight?

Ocean freight is preferred for most Japanese imports due to cost-effectiveness ($1.50-2 per ton-mile) and consistency. Use ocean for regular scheduled shipments, bulk orders, and non-urgent cargo. Air freight ($3-6 per kg) is appropriate for urgent shipments with tight deadlines (1-2 day delivery), high-value products where transit time cost justifies the premium, critical components for manufacturing lines, and products with short lifecycle windows. For most established importers, ocean freight handles the bulk of volume with occasional air for emergencies.