Job Discussion Forums

[Glenski]

As much as I stress to people that the post office can be your friend, so many don't listen.

You don't have to pack a year's supply of anything, especially clothes. Box up 2 seasons' worth, and have a friend/family member ship to you when the time approaches. (Since slow boat seamail has recently been eliminated for Americans, things will arrive that much faster.)

For the few things I ask to be shipped from the USA, Global Priority envelopes are a lifesaver. For $10, you can send as much as you can pack inside the envelope.

As for special sauces and other foods, there's always the Foreign Buyers Club (www.fbcusa.com), even though it is pricey. I have yet to ask for any foods to be shipped to me, though, whether through FBC or family. Major department stores have nearly everything in their basement foreign foods sections.

[factr]

Thanks for all the links.. I've searched through here and gaijinpot but I thought a little up to the minute info would also be helpful (as was in the case of not bringing sudafed)

I imagine this thread is about dead, but I have one more question someone may be able to answer. Do Japanese customs allow knives or razor blades to come in through checked luggage? I am thinking more along the lines of my exacto knife set.... for hobbying, not hijacking. I wouldn't dream of putting it on my carryon but I haven't seen anything on "weapon" restrictions other than the obvious: firearms, explosives.

[Asher]

http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/news/hoan/hoan.html#knife

I'd err on the side of caution and have friends or family mail any nonessential items to me after arrival. Security has quite a bit of leeway.

And I'd also suggest you bring deodorant. That is, unless you have fond memories of Right Guard.