Advance Filing Rules (AFR):

1. What is AFR?

  • AFR refers to the electronic manifest declaration fee for goods exported to Japan. It is required by Japanese customs for all goods and must be declared and paid at least 24 hours before the departure of the transport vessel to Japan. Shipping companies provide exporters with information on AFR fees.

2. AFR Fee Structure:

  • The AFR fee, typically between 25 to 40 USD per shipment, is paid by exporters to the shipping companies.
  • This fee includes both the declaration service charge and the actual payment.
  • The fee is consistent per shipment, not based on the weight or quantity of goods. Whether exporting 1 or 100 containers, the fee remains the same.

Penalty Regulations for AFR Non-compliance

1. Penalty Regulations for Non-declaration or Late AFR Declaration:

  • Penalties for non-compliance can be severe, including fines up to 5,000 USD or imprisonment for one year.
  • Common violations include shipping goods without a declaration or submitting inaccurate declarations.
  • Manifest declarations must be completed at least 24 hours before the vessel’s departure from the loading port. No changes are allowed after departure.

2. Consultation:

  • Free consultation is available for AFR declaration and exporting goods to Japan. It is recommended to register for a manifest declaration account early, as the process can take 3-4 working days.