Today, we shipped packages to customers in many different countries once again.
It may not sound unusual since this is part of our daily routine, but thanks to your continued support, we have become the top FedEx shipper in our local area. Many people are surprised to learn that such a large volume of our shipments consists of trading cards.
When I used to sell on eBay, I was often asked to reduce shipping costs. At that time, I tried sending items without tracking to meet those requests. Unfortunately, nearly 60% of those shipments resulted in “item not received” claims, which led to significant financial losses.
Since then, my mindset has completely changed. My priority is to ensure that every package safely and reliably reaches the customer. That is why we now only use secure and trackable shipping methods.
Today, I also visited several locations, so I would like to share a bit of my daily activities with you.
First, I went to Book Off to purchase a specific card requested by a customer. We rarely source inventory from card shops because prices are typically higher and often do not align with our customers’ target prices.
As I’ve mentioned before, physical card shops have rent and staffing costs, so higher pricing is understandable. Because we operate without a storefront, our overhead is lower, which allows us to offer more competitive pricing.
Although we seldom purchase inventory from retail card shops, we do visit them regularly to monitor pricing trends and understand the local market.
This time, I was mainly looking at Pokémon-related items, but I also checked One Piece cards. Compared to a few months ago, prices have increased by approximately 10–20%, and compared to one year ago, the difference is even more significant.
Just one year ago, many stores were buying One Piece cards for only $1–$2 each, and even then, they struggled to resell them. Despite the impressive holographic finishes and foil details, these cards were heavily undervalued.
Now, the situation has changed. International demand especially from overseas markets has significantly influenced the Japanese market. I believe it has become increasingly difficult for this industry to rely solely on domestic demand. Card shops in Tokyo and Osaka, for example, benefit greatly from international visitors.
While browsing, I came across a promotional Chopper card wearing a Sengoku-era samurai helmet, priced at around $4.
This particular promo has been gradually increasing in value overseas. In Japan, however, it still seems undervalued. I believe it has strong potential for future appreciation.
That said, if domestic demand remains low, prices cannot rise significantly. It was likely purchased from a general seller for around 200 yen (about $1.20), which makes the situation somewhat bittersweet.
For lunch, I visited a shopping mall and enjoyed a classic Japanese dish: okonomiyaki.
If you have visited Japan before, you may have tried it. The sweet sauce is the key flavor.
Later, while shopping at a supermarket, I noticed Pokémon Kids 30th Anniversary figures in the snack section. Each box includes a pre-painted soft vinyl figure and soda-flavored gum for 248 yen (approximately $1.60).
Only three were left in stock, so I purchased them as small gifts for customers.
Next stop: Pokémon Center Fukuoka.
Are you getting used to this view? (laugh)
Since it is our 30th anniversary year, I intentionally visited on a weekday instead of the weekend. However, I was surprised to find that most 30th Anniversary merchandise was almost completely sold out.
Not only cards, but merchandise sales in general are extremely strong. It almost made me wonder whether the anniversary goods had been available at all.
Have you already secured your 30th Anniversary items?
Finally, I purchased Pokémon card packs.
Today’s available sets were:
- Munikiss Zero – limit 5 packs per person
- Mega Brave – limit 10 packs per person
- Mega Symphonia – limit 10 packs per person
Recently, the set I am personally targeting, Mega Dream ex, has not been available, which is slightly disappointing.
However, purchasing directly from Pokémon Center remains one of the safest methods. There are no concerns about tampering, and everything is sold properly at retail price.
Today, we purchased a total of 110 packs for our family allocation.
Retail total: 19,800 yen (approximately $127).
After opening all packs, we pulled multiple SAR cards.
Even if sold conservatively, the total value would be around 27,000 yen (approximately $173), resulting in a solid margin. Based on the purchase limit and pricing structure, there is minimal downside risk.
Even without reselling, opening packs ourselves can produce exciting results. That is one reason we continue visiting Pokémon Center frequently. After doing this regularly, you begin to notice patterns—it becomes quite interesting.
If you are interested in purchasing sealed packs, feel free to contact us anytime.
A Message to Our Customers
Today was another day of research, discovery, and market analysis.
I do not know how other card shops or exporters operate, but while our lifestyle may appear flexible from the outside, every action we take is intentional and connected to future growth.
This is not a hobby it is serious work.
Evenings are typically spent working on the computer, while daytime is focused on packing, sourcing, and research.
Many recent inquiries show that customers understand our approach and business style. Writing this blog is not just communication it is part of building trust and maintaining transparency. It is also an important form of PR.
If you have not yet worked with us, we invite you to reach out.
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Shinobu🇯🇵
HAKATA7 