Rakuten Global Market Reviews

Rakuten, known for its optimism and innovation, offers a wide array of services globally. The Rakuten Group operates over 70 businesses, with a strong presence in e-commerce, travel, digital content, and fintech. Their fintech services include credit cards, banking, securities, insurance, electronic money, and smartphone app payments. Additionally, they provide communications services, such as a mobile carrier service, and are involved in professional sports. The heart of Rakuten's success is its global online marketplace, which features a diverse range of products across categories like electronics, fashion, home goods, and beauty. The marketplace connects sellers, brands, and consumers worldwide, offering Japanese quality products and services.

Rakuten offers flexible payment methods to accommodate various preferences. Customers can choose to receive their Cash Back payments via Big Fat Check or PayPal. Both options are free of charge and payments are issued every three months according to the payment schedule. For those who opt for a Big Fat Check, it will be issued to the name and address provided in the account settings. PayPal payments are sent to the associated PayPal account. Additionally, there is an option to participate in the Cash Back for Change program, allowing customers to donate the change from their quarterly Cash Back payment to partner nonprofits. For purchases, Rakuten generally accepts online card payments, on-site payments, and Rakuten Points. Some services, like Rakuten Travel, specify accepted payment methods such as online card payments and payments with Rakuten Points.

Rakuten's return policy states that all returns and cancellations are subject to the specific policy of each store. Returned or cancelled orders may void Cash Back and be deducted from your Cash Back Balance, depending on the store’s policy. Exchanged orders processed as a cancellation and a new transaction may be treated as a cancelled order. To ensure Cash Back on exchanged orders, customers can return the item and place a new order. For shipping, if a shipment does not clear customs and is returned, Rakuten may re-send it or forward it to a domestic destination upon request. However, they do not provide guidance or refunds for shipments confiscated at customs. Additionally, Rakuten Global Express offers a Customer Protection Plan, which requires contact within 90 days following the order placement for issues like lost or damaged items.

Pricing on Global.rakuten.com is designed to be simplified and user-friendly. Customers can enjoy a variety of services without additional fees for multiple packages. The delivery fees are variable, allowing customers to choose their preferred shipping method based on delivery times, prices, and services. Japanese consumption tax does not apply to Rakuten Global Express fees. Other fees may include options like waterproof bag, protective packing, and priority packing, with costs varying based on the service selected. A tax administration fee is charged for handling Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Value Added Tax (VAT). For items valued over a certain amount, an export customs declaration fee is applied. Additionally, there may be an irregular fee for repackaging items, domestic forwarding, or disposal. It's important to note that recipients of international shipping may be subject to customs duties, taxes, and public charges, which are determined by the destination country's customs.

The payment process on Global.rakuten.com is designed to be secure and reliable. The platform aligns with global standards, including ISO/IEC 27001 and PCI DSS, an international information security standard for businesses that handle payment cards. This ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets. Regular audits and continuous improvement measures are in place to maintain high levels of security. Additionally, developers receive regular education and testing to ensure they can create services that protect user data effectively. Preventative measures against unauthorized access, phishing attacks, and information leaks are actively implemented to safeguard transactions.