FAQ

Moving House in Japan: FAQs
Moving in Japan can seem daunting with its unique customs and procedures. This FAQ aims to answer your common questions and make your move smoother.

General Questions:

 A house move in Japan involves careful planning, understanding local customs, and using professional relocation services. Here are key steps to consider:

1. Start Planning Early: Begin your move planning at least 6-8 months ahead. This allows time to manage lease agreements, select a new location, and choose moving companies.

2. Engage Professional Relocation Services: Utilize companies specializing in corporate relocation that can assist with office moving, visa and immigration support, tenancy management, and settling-in services for employees.Understand Japanese Business Culture: Respect hierarchy, be punctual, use proper business card etiquette, and consider gift-giving customs to build good relationships.

3. Support Employee Relocation: Help employees with visa applications, housing, administrative registrations, and provide language support if needed.

4. Choose Reputable Moving Companies: Select movers experienced in corporate and international moves, ensuring they offer insurance and comprehensive services.

5. Handle Administrative Compliance: Register your business properly, understand tax obligations, and comply with Japanese labor laws.

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Q: How much does it cost to move in Japan?
A: Moving costs vary significantly based on several factors:
* Distance: Longer distances mean higher costs.  Local moves within the same city are cheaper than inter-city moves.
* Volume of belongings: More belongings require larger trucks and more manpower, increasing the price.
* Time of year: Peak moving seasons (March-April and September-October) are more expensive due to high demand.  Moving on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can save you money.
* Moving company: Prices differ between companies.  Get multiple quotes to compare.
* Services included: Packing,  and other services add to the cost.
Expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand yen for a small local move to hundreds of thousands of yen for a large, long-distance move.  Getting quotes from multiple moving companies is crucial.

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Q: When is the best time to move in Japan?
A: The best time to move, in terms of price and availability, is generally outside the peak seasons of March-April and September-October.  These periods coincide with school graduations and corporate transfers, leading to high demand and inflated prices.  Consider moving during the quieter months like May-August or November-February (excluding the New Year period).
Q: How far in advance should I book a moving company?
A: It's recommended to start planning and getting quotes at least 1 month in advance, especially if you're moving during peak season.  The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing your preferred date and time, and potentially getting a better price.
Q: What services do moving companies typically offer?
A: Moving companies offer a range of services, including:
* Packing: Providing packing materials and packing your belongings.
* Transporting: Moving your belongings to your new home.
* Furniture assembly/disassembly: Assembling and disassembling furniture.
* Disposal of unwanted items: Disposing of furniture, appliances, and other items you don't need.
You can choose the services you need and customize your moving plan.

Q: How do I choose a moving company?

A: When choosing a moving company in the Kanto area, consider the following steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free move:

1. Research Reputation and Reviews: Check customer reviews and testimonials, especially from expats or locals who have moved in the Kanto area. Forums like Reddit's r/japanlife or r/Tokyo can be helpful.

2. Evaluate Services Offered: Determine what services you need:

   • Packing

   • Furniture disassembly and assembly

   • Provision of cardboard boxes

   • Disposal of unwanted items

   • English language support (important if you're not fluent in Japanese)

3. Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from at least three companies to compare prices and services. Ask for itemized quotes to avoid hidden fees.

4. Consider Timing: Avoid peak moving seasons (February to April) when prices can be higher. Booking early is recommended.

5. Communication: Choose a company with responsive and English-speaking staff if needed.

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Q: What should I do before the moving day?
A:  Several things need to be done before moving day:
* Notify relevant parties: Inform your landlord, utility companies, internet provider, bank, and other relevant parties of your change of address.
* Pack your belongings: Start packing early and declutter as you go.  Clearly label all boxes.
* Change your address: Update your address with the post office to forward your mail.
* Prepare your new home: Ensure utilities are connected at your new home.
* Defrost your refrigerator: Defrost your refrigerator the day before the move.
* Prepare a moving day box: Pack a box with essentials like toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes for easy access on a moving day.

Q: What should I do on moving day?
A: On a moving day:
* Be present: Be at both your old and new homes to supervise the move.
* Answer questions: Be available to answer any questions the movers may have.
* Check inventory: Ensure all your belongings are loaded onto the truck.
* Inspect your belongings: After the move, inspect your belongings for any damage.

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Q: When moving in Tokyo, disposing of unwanted items properly is important due to strict waste disposal rules. Here are the best ways to handle unwanted items:

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Tokyo's 23 wards each have their own disposal guidelines, with waste divided into four main categories: combustible (burnable), non-combustible (non-burnable), recyclable, and large-sized garbage. The first three types are collected on regular schedules—usually two or three times weekly for burnable items, once or twice monthly for non-burnable, and once weekly for recyclables. Checking your specific ward's website is essential, as rules vary significantly; for example, some wards treat most plastic packaging as burnable, while others require separate plastic recycling.

Use Oversized Garbage Collection

For large furniture or appliances, you must contact your municipal sodai gomi (large garbage) reception center by phone or online to schedule a pickup. You'll need to purchase a sodai gomi sticker from a convenience store or supermarket depending on item size. Write your name on the sticker, attach it to the item, and place it at the designated pickup location before 8:00 AM on the scheduled date.

Recycle Electronics Properly

Appliances like air conditioners, TVs, washing machines, and refrigerators cannot be disposed of as regular household garbage. These items fall under business-related waste regulations and require proper recycling through designated centers or retailer take-back programs.

Donate or Sell Usable Items

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Hire a Moving Company with Disposal Service

23 Move moving companie offers integrated disposal  service, which can streamline the process significantly.

Q: What should I do after moving in?
A: After moving in:
* Unpack your belongings: Unpack your belongings and organize your new home.
* Register your address: Register your new address at your local municipal office.
* Connect utilities: If you haven't already, connect your utilities (gas, electricity, water, internet).
* Explore your new neighborhood: Get to know your new surroundings.

Specific Questions:
Q: What is "hikoshi"?
A: "Hikkoshi" (引っ越し) is the Japanese word for moving.
Q: What is a "hikkoshi soba"?
A: "Hikkoshi soba" (引っ越し蕎麦) is a custom where people moving into a new neighborhood give small gifts of soba noodles to their new neighbors.  This is a way of introducing themselves and building good relationships.
Q: How do I dispose of large items like furniture and appliances?
A: Disposing of large items in Japan requires a special process. You usually need to purchase a disposal ticket (sodaigomi shori-ken) at a convenience store and schedule a pickup.  Check with your local municipality for specific instructions.  Moving companies often offer disposal services as well.

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This FAQ provides general information.  Always consult with our company 23 move and local authorities for specific details and requirements related to your move.