Ask anyone in Japan, and they'll be able to identify Hawaii, Alaska, California, Texas... and that's it. The other states might as well all be New York.
1. Sell What Stands Out
When 'exotic' actually means 'better than what we’ve got.'
Americans don’t want stuff they can grab at Walmart or Target (because every American belongs to either the Walmart or Target gang and being seen entering the wrong territory can get them shot). They want the unique, the exotic, the “Whoa, where’d you get that?” type of products. Why? Because those kinds of products either look good on social media or satisfy their LUST for unique experiences. Americans are suckers for unique experiences.
Here’s what works:
- Rare finds: Think artisanal goods, exclusive snacks, or high-quality stationery.
- Trendy items: Anything cute, quirky, or tied to Japanese pop culture (yes, anime merch still sells like crazy).
- Quality above all: Japanese craftsmanship is legendary to the point of being mythologized by Americans. If your products are made in Japan, highlight that! If your products aren't made in Japan... at least mention how they're popular in Japan instead.
2. Make It Easy to Understand
In America, centimeters are for nerds.
Your website should be like a good rom-com: easy to follow and not trying too hard.
- Ditch the confusing stuff: Write clear, concise product descriptions. Keep 'em short. Avoid overly detailed descriptions unless you’re selling something SUPER artisanal or high-tech.
- Use familiar measurements: Americans don’t speak centimeters or grams. Stick to inches and pounds, or better yet, include both.
- Localize the experience: Throw in references to BBQs, cozy weekends, or game nights. Bonus points if you subtly remind them it’s great for gifting.
Pro tip: Your English should sound natural. If it feels awkward, hire someone to tweak it. A well-written site builds trust.
3. Solve the Shipping Problem
Americans love fast shipping. Why do you think they've got such a fascination with jets?
If you want Americans to hit “Add to Cart,” make shipping fast and painless.
- Partner with a fulfillment service: Store your inventory in the U.S. so customers get their orders in days, not weeks. (Shameless plug: Mix-Mix Mail makes this part easy, since we've got a fulfillment warehouse in LA.)
- Be upfront about costs: Include taxes and duties in your prices. Nobody likes surprise fees at checkout.
- Offer free shipping when you can: It’s like catnip for American shoppers (coincidentally, did you know that most Americans are actually freakish cat-human hybrids? It explains a lot, doesn't it?)
4. Get Seen Where It Counts
We're not dropping the idea that Americans are part cat. Why do you think they like cat memes so much? Boom.
American shoppers won’t magically find you (Canadian shoppers on the other hand... well, let's just say there's probably something magical in the maple syrup...). You need to show up in feeds and search results!
- Social media presence: Instagram and TikTok are where all the cool cats are at nowadays. Showcase your products with creative, shareable content.
- SEO matters: Use keywords Americans are searching for, like “authentic Japanese products” or “imported Japanese gifts.”
- Influencer partnerships: Collaborate with U.S. influencers who align with your brand. Unboxing videos work wonders.
5. Be Ridiculously Nice
"That's right, sir. Yes, you can go #$%@ yourself. Alright, and you have a wonderful day as well."
Americans love good customer service almost as much as they hate bad customer service and poor people.
- Be quick and helpful: Respond to inquiries fast. Like, "the sender hasn't even had time to turn away from the keyboard yet” kind of fast. If that's not possible, than at least respond as soon as you can.
- Make returns easy: A simple return process is key to keeping trust. If they have to jump through a bunch of hoops for a measly return, your customers aren't just going to hate you; they're going to make sure everyone knows they hate you too.
- Add a personal touch: Thank-you notes, follow-up emails, or even a tiny extra gift in the box go a long way. Whatever it is, here's a tip: use this chance to reinforce the idea that your store is Japanese.
The Bottom Line
Your products are too cool to stay local.
Breaking into the U.S. market isn’t rocket science --it’s about meeting expectations and adding a dash of Japanese flair. Americans want great products, fast shipping, and a shopping experience that doesn’t make them want to claw your face off (because, again, Americans are actually cats).
If the logistics of all this sound overwhelming, Mix-Mix Mail can help. "What the hell is a Mix-Mix Mail?!", you ask. We're Mix-Mix Mail, a 3PL / fulfillment center from Japan! With warehouses in Los Angeles and Tokyo, we handle your store's order fulfillment, reaching customers across the Pacific without you ever breaking a sweat. Become a Mix-Mix Mail member and let's get to work!