Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ongaku Express sell?

Ongaku Express offers Japanese music and entertainment collectibles, including CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, Blu-rays, books, magazines, video games, toys, figures, and related merchandise.

Our selection includes J-pop, J-rock, Japanese metal, Japanese punk, Visual Kei, anime music, film and drama releases, game music, doujin music, retro games, out-of-print publications, and collector editions.


What types of items does Ongaku Express specialize in?

We especially focus on:

  • J-pop, J-rock, Japanese metal, and Japanese punk
  • Visual Kei
  • Anime, film, and game soundtracks
  • Doujin and independent music
  • Japanese CDs, vinyl, DVDs, Blu-rays, and VHS
  • Retro games and game-related merchandise
  • Out-of-print books and magazines
  • Rare, discontinued, promotional, and collector editions

Stock changes regularly, and many items are one-of-a-kind or available in limited quantities.


Can you help me find an item that is not listed?

Yes. If you are looking for a rare or difficult-to-find item, we may be able to help through our sourcing network in Japan.

Please reach us with as much information as possible:

  • Artist, title, series, or franchise
  • Catalog number or barcode
  • Preferred format or edition
  • Condition requirements
  • Reference images or links
  • Your destination country

A sourcing request does not guarantee availability or a quoted price, but we will let you know if we can help.


Are your items new or used?

Our inventory includes both new and pre-owned items. The condition and relevant item details are shown in each product listing.

For used and collectible items, packaging, inserts, obi strips, bonus items, download codes, and other original accessories may not be included unless specifically stated in the listing.

Images may be stock images unless the listing states that the photographs show the actual item. Please read the full description and condition notes before ordering.


Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We ship to many countries worldwide from Japan.

Available shipping services, delivery estimates, and shipping costs are displayed at checkout after you enter your delivery address. Available services depend on the destination, package size, package value, carrier availability, and current international logistics conditions.

Some destinations may have courier or express shipping only.


How long does order processing take?

Orders are normally prepared within 6–10 business days after payment is confirmed.

Special-order, oversized, high-value, or multi-item orders may require additional handling time. If we expect a significant delay, we will contact you using the email address provided with your order.

Delivery time begins after dispatch and varies by destination and shipping method.


Will I receive tracking information?

Tracking is provided when it is included with the shipping method selected at checkout.

Once your order is dispatched, you will receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking details where available. Please allow time for the carrier to register the first scan.


How are items packaged?

We pack items carefully to help protect them in transit.

Records, CDs, DVDs, games, books, and collectibles are packaged with suitable protective materials. Fragile, oversized, or high-value items may require additional protective packing and may have different shipping options.


Will I have to pay import tax, VAT, customs duty, or handling fees?

International orders may be subject to import VAT, customs duty, clearance fees, or other charges imposed by the destination country.

Unless explicitly stated at checkout, these charges are the buyer’s responsibility. Ongaku Express does not control customs assessments, carrier handling charges, or import-processing times.

For shipments to the European Union, new and changing import, product-safety, and customs requirements may result in additional customs checks, delivery delays, or import charges. Please check your local import rules before ordering.

We recommend allowing extra time for customs clearance, especially for collectible, used, vintage, high-value, or multi-item orders.


Can EU regulations affect delivery of my order?

Yes. EU customs, VAT, product-safety, and carrier requirements can change and may affect international shipments from Japan.

Depending on the item and destination, an order may be subject to additional documentation, customs inspection, delayed clearance, duty, VAT, or carrier handling fees. These requirements are determined by the destination country and carrier, and are outside Ongaku Express’s control.

Please check your local import requirements before placing an order.


Can I return an item if I change my mind?

Because many of our products are used, rare, and collectible, all sales are final and we generally do not accept returns for change-of-mind purchases.


What should I do if an item arrives damaged or is materially different from the listing?

Please contact us as soon as possible after delivery.

Include:

  • Your order number
  • A clear description of the issue
  • Photos of the item, packaging, and shipping label
  • Photos showing any transit damage, where applicable

We will review the information and provide the appropriate next steps.


What payment methods do you accept?

Available payment methods are displayed at checkout and may include:

  • PayPal
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Apple Pay
  • Other payment methods offered by Shopify at checkout

For eligible orders, bank transfer or IBAN payment may be available by prior manual arrangement. Contact us before placing the order if you want to request this option.

Bank-transfer orders can take approximately 5–7 business days to process after funds are received.


How can I contact Ongaku Express?

To contact us, please fill our Contact Form

For order-related questions, please include your order number. For sourcing requests, include as much information as possible about the item you are seeking.

We aim to respond as soon as possible on 3-5 business days.