How Many Stamps Do I Need to Send a Letter to Japan from the U.S.?

To send a letter to Japan from the United States, you typically need one Global Forever stamp which covers the cost of sending a letter internationally. As of my last update, this stamp is priced at $1.50. If your letter exceeds the weight limit for a standard letter (1 ounce), you will need to add additional postage based on the weight. Always check the latest rates on the USPS website or at your local post office for any updates.

Current Postage Rates for USPS

Here are the current postage rates for USPS:

$1.20 for 1 oz for first class mail. Typically, you will not find a cheaper service than USPS, as many have tried but still had to stand in line at the post office and faced complaints when the service was not as expected.

Postage Calculation

For a one-ounce regular-sized envelope, you need $1.15 in postage to anywhere in the world. You can satisfy this requirement with a combination of stamps that add up to at least $1.15. Three Global Forever stamps will cover it, though it is overpaying. The rate is $1.15 as long as it is under one ounce and is flat.

Shipping to Japan

For shipping to Japan, you need to be precise about the weight, size, and intended delivery method. Here are the current rates from the Japan Post website:

An ordinary small letter less than 25 grams sent by airmail costs 110 yen. A letter sent by surface mail weighing between 50 and 100 grams typically costs 270 yen. If you are uncertain, a local shop may only stock standard postage stamps, and for something heavier, you may need to go to a post office.

Online Postage Price Calculator

If you are in the U.S., you can use the USPS Postage Price Calculator for a more detailed and accurate price calculation. It will tell you the price, but not how many stamps you need for mailing the parcel.

Customs Forms and Pick-up Service

To ensure your package is properly processed, you will need to fill out a customs form. You can do this online and print it out, or you can go to your local post office. Here’s what you can do:

Put your own stamp at home. Take it to the post office where they will verify the correct amount and fill out the customs form. You can have the USPS pick up your package or go to the post office and have everything done on-site.

My recommendation is always to verify the postage rates and customs forms accurately to ensure a smooth and successful delivery to Japan.