Regardless of who is relocating, this transitional period can evoke feelings ranging from excitement to terror. However, irrespective of how you perceive the process of packing up and venturing to a new residence—as an opportunity for renewal or otherwise—one fact remains consistent: moving in Japan comes with significant costs.
With reikin (key money), shikikin (the security deposit amount) along with the expense of hiring movers, you can quickly run up a charge During the relocation period. That's precisely what you wish to avoid when it’s much more enjoyable to use your savings for something stylish and new. Japandi furniture For your new place. Keep reading below for our 10 tips on moving to Japan without breaking the bank.
1. Omit May and June
In March and April, relocation activities peak in Japan. These months coincide with the conclusion of the academic year in March and the commencement of the new one in April. Consequently, newly graduated students typically move to begin their careers, whereas incoming pupils relocate nearer to their educational institutions. Concurrently, numerous company staff members undergo transfers within the organization during this period. tenkin , to addresses in different cities or prefectures and must complete the move by April 1st, which coincides with the start of the fiscal year. Due to this busy season, moving companies increase their prices and may be hard to book.
2. Attempt Falling or Wet Season
Attempt to relocate during the transition from September to October. Due to the potential for typhoons during this timeframe, it tends to be avoided by many people moving houses. A more budget-friendly alternative would be to plan your move during early summer instead. Both June and July present viable options for those seeking cost-effective relocation periods. tsuyu During the rainy season, people generally prefer not to move, making this time less busy for movers. Consequently, moving companies might provide significant discounts and have greater flexibility with scheduling to accommodate your preferences. Additionally, landlords could be more inclined to waive reikin and security deposit fees.
3. Compare Quotes from Different Movers
While looking for moving companies, aim to obtain at least three in-person quotes from various firms. This initial move helps secure the best price along with reliable movers. Numerous moving businesses provide a range of services such as packaging your belongings, setting up your appliances, and even putting together your furniture. These tasks can be included within comprehensive packages or charged separately. It’s crucial to clarify this beforehand to avoid unexpected fees later on!
4. Withdraw from Companies' Exclusive Offers
Reject premium services (such as those fancy clothing storage boxes) that moving companies offer for additional fees. While such amenities can be appealing, they come with significant costs. To keep an eye on your expenses, consider supplying your own packaging materials, packing your belongings into boxes yourself, and handling the assembly and disassembly of your furniture instead of hiring movers to do this work at an extra charge.
5. Utilize Shipping Companies Intelligently
If you're an individual with limited furnishings and boxes, think about utilizing two distinct services for your relocation needs. One service could handle the transportation of large and weighty items like furniture and appliances (such as fridges, tables, and washing machines), whereas another could assist with smaller belongings. takuhaibin For home delivery of the remaining boxes, consider this option. Alternatively, if you do not need to relocate big items like furniture or appliances, and lack access to a vehicle for self-delivery, utilizing just takuhaibin might be suitable. Takuhaibin, which is notably the most preferred takuhaibin company, can serve as an example here. Yamato Transport Can transport boxes with overall linear dimensions of 120 cm, 140 cm, and 160 cm within the Kanto area for less than ¥3,000 per box.
6. Request a Smaller Truck
In Japan, moving companies typically provide trucks with different capacities. During their assessment of your possessions, they'll determine the appropriate-sized vehicle for the job. Usually, opting for the compact truck is the more cost-effective choice, although this might require finding an alternative method for transporting certain items. For nearby moves, consider using takuhaibin service for part of your belongings, or perhaps utilize your bicycle, personal car, or a borrowed vehicle from a friend. As a general guideline, selecting a smaller truck correlates directly with lower costs.
7. Opt for a Rental Car
If you're okay with handling your own moving boxes, using your personal car or borrowing one from someone else could save you some money. However, renting a car is another possibility, though you must proceed cautiously: make sure to thoroughly review the agreement beforehand because minor damages like tiny scratches might result in additional charges once you return the vehicle after relocating.
8. Steer Clear of Peak Moving Hours Each Day
The peak period for relocating in Japan typically falls in the early hours of the day. To cut down costs, consider scheduling your move at an alternative time, like later in the afternoon or in the evening. During these periods, businesses may provide reductions since their staff might otherwise not be working. Additionally, moving firms frequently grant refunds if you permit them to select both the timing and the date of your relocation. Should you possess the adaptability for this arrangement, it usually turns out to be the least expensive option.
9. Use Tanshin Senyou Packs
If your room has very little furniture, be sure to inquire about the tanshin senyou Bundle (Singles Package): This offering from moving companies supplies you with one or two large containers of standardized dimensions to accommodate all your possessions. Typically, each container has enough space to hold everything found in a typical studio apartment, including larger items like refrigerators. In comparison to conventional moves using rental trucks—which might leave significant empty space—these bundles come at a reduced price and allow inter-prefecture relocation. They are particularly favored by individuals who have been unexpectedly transferred for their jobs.
{getCard} $type={post} $title={You might like}
10. Use a Konsaibin
People who have few possessions should consider trying this. konsaibin The mixed-loading service transports your belongings along with those of others in a single truck, thereby lowering the expenses involved. Much like carpooling platforms, several individuals share one vehicle and team of movers, which decreases individual costs. However, using such services comes with certain disadvantages: you won't have say over how your items are positioned within the truck nor do you get details about what else might travel alongside yours, possibly heightening the chance of damage. Additionally, being adaptable regarding when exactly you move could be necessary to maximize the benefits offered by this type of service.
How can you lower your moving costs in Japan? Please share your tips in the section below!