After you obtained a Secondhand dealer license (Kobutsu license), you need to follow the Secondhand Dealer Business Act (Kobutsu Eigyou Hou). There is often an on-site inspection without prior notice by the police officer.

 

Followings are some of the main rules you have to follow.

 

Related articles:  1.Points when foreigners apply for the Secondhand dealer license, “Kobutsu License”

2. 外国人の古物商許可申請のポイント

 

 

1. Keep a ledger

 

When you conduct a transaction for the sale or purchase of antiques, the following items must be recorded in a book or by electromagnetic means each time the transaction is completed.

 

Matters to be recorded

• Date of transaction
• Item and quantity of secondhand articles
• Characteristics of the antique
• Address, name, occupation, and age of the counterparty
• Classification of measures taken to confirm the authenticity of the counterparty

 

If you obtain a Secondhand dealer license through our office, you will receive an English ledger in Excel format as a present.

 

2.Display a plate inside or outside the front door, in an easily visible place

Your website must also display the name of the Public Safety Commission that granted the permit, the permit number, the category of antiques handled, and the name.

 

You can make your plate at online plate vendors or at local “Secondhand Dealer Crime Prevention Cooperatives”.

 

The specifications for plates

• Material: Metal, plastic, or other material of equal or greater durability
• Color: dark blue with white letters.
• Size: 8 cm in length and 16 cm in width.
• The number on the permit should be shown at the top.
• The classification of secondhand items that are mainly handled should be described in the middle.
• The name of the antique dealer (or the name of the company) should be written at the bottom.

 

3.Verify the identity of the business partners

 

When you purchase antiques, exchange antiques, or are entrusted with the sale or exchange of antiques, you must verify the authenticity of the counterparty to the transaction.

• Full name
• Address
• Occupation
• Age

 

Exception to the obligation to confirm

If the total value is less than 10,000 yen (excluding motorcycles, mopeds, televisions, game software, CDs, DVD, books, etc.).

When you purchase from the counterparty goods that you have sold to the counterparty.

 

 

4. Report immediately to a police officer any suspicion of illicit goods (e.g., stolen or counterfeit goods)

 

Checkpoints for Illicit Goods Detection

1. Bringing in multiple identical items
2. Bringing in only new or the latest models
3. Bringing in a large number of secondhand items at one time, or frequent transactions despite being an individual
4. Bringing in items that are inappropriate for one’s status (e.g. expensive items for a minor)
5. A parent’s handwriting is very similar to his/her own handwriting.
6. When calling the guardian to confirm consent, the guardian is unable to provide his/her date of birth (may not be the real guardian)

 

 

5. Submit a change of address form if the business address changes

 

A “Notification of Change” form must be submitted to the police station with jurisdiction over the location of the business office at least 3 days prior to moving the business office.

 

 

Summary

It is important to follow the Secondhand Dealer Business Act, as the failure to operate in accordance with it may result in deprivation of your license.

At Amie Immigration Law Office, we can assist you in obtaining a Secondhand dealer license in English. If you want to get a license, please contact us.