Hi Philip,
There are lots of freight forwarders that will do that for you. I would imagine that your best bet would be any port city on the west coast. I ship a lot of break bulk (loose item) to Europe, and there are lots of freight forwarders here in Florida that compete for my business. Their services typically include receiving goods to be shipped in their warehouse, and then shipping it in consolidated containers. That way you only pay for shipping your own stuff, and not the entire container. On the Japan side the freight forwarder typically works with a local customs agent who will declare your goods and have it ready for pickup at his warehouse. Usually a very painless procedure.
Bjorn



I will be buying building materials and tools and having them shipped to me in Japan. It would be nice to find some place that will consolidate my materials and ship them out to me--that would mean that I don't have to depend solely on some place like Home Depot.
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Philip