Moving is a major event that marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. However, the process involves numerous preparations and procedures, which can feel overwhelming. With proper planning and a step-by-step approach, you can complete your move smoothly.
This article provides a detailed timeline of the moving process in Japan, from the moment you decide to move until you settle into your new home. Use this guide to make your move as efficient as possible.
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1–2 Months Before Moving: Start Preparing
Sign a Lease for Your New Home and Confirm the Move-in Date
It's best to start searching for a new place as early as possible. Once you find a property that meets your needs, carefully check details such as rent, location, facilities, and contract terms.
If your rental application is approved, you can proceed with signing the lease and confirming your move-in date. Depending on negotiations with the real estate agency, you may be able to get a rent discount or adjust the move-in schedule. In popular areas, properties get taken quickly, so making prompt decisions and acting fast is crucial.
Prepare Initial Costs When Signing a Rental Contract
| Expense | Description | Estimated Cost |
| Security Deposit | A deposit paid to the landlord, mainly used for repairs when you move out. | 0–2 months' rent |
| Key Money | A non-refundable payment to the landlord as a gratuity. | 0–2 months' rent |
| Advance Rent | Rent for the month following the move-in month, paid in advance. | 1 month’s rent |
| Prorated Rent | Rent for the move-in month, calculated based on the move-in date. | Varies by move-in date |
| Agent Fee | A commission paid to the real estate agency. | 0.5–1 month’s rent |
| Fire Insurance | Insurance covering fire, water damage, and other incidents. | ¥10,000–¥20,000 (for 2 years) |
| Key Replacement Fee | Cost for replacing the lock upon moving in. | ¥10,000–¥30,000 |
| Guarantor Company Fee | Fee for using a guarantor company, if required. | 0.5–1 month’s rent (initial payment) |
| Other Fees | Includes house cleaning, disinfection, 24-hour support, etc. | Varies by property |
Cancel Your Current Rental Contract
In most cases, you need to notify your landlord or property management company 1–2 months before moving out, but the exact notice period depends on your rental contract. Check the lease agreement carefully and inform the appropriate party accordingly.
If your lease end date and move-out date do not match, you may need to adjust your plans to avoid paying double rent. Also, confirm details about your security deposit refund and any required property restoration to prevent disputes later.
Choosing a Moving Company
Different moving companies offer varying rates and services. Request quotes from multiple providers to compare prices and find the best option. In addition to the cost, check the details of their services, such as packing and air conditioner relocation. There are budget-friendly plans for single movers and full-service options for families.
Moving during peak season (March–April) can be more expensive and harder to book. If possible, consider moving during the off-season (May–August, November–February) for better rates.
Comparing Major Moving Companies with Nationwide Services
| Company Name | Plans | Features | Official Website |
| Sakai Moving Service | Full Service, Standard, Economy, Shared Load, Rebuilding Plan, etc. | ①Careful packing ②Professional protective measures ③Trucks equipped with antibacterial coating ④Strong support services (buying unwanted items, house cleaning, etc.) | Here |
| Art Moving Center | Omakase Pack, Student Discount Pack, Ladies’ Pack, Senior Pack, etc. | ①Various free services (handling paperwork, distributing greeting gifts to neighbors, etc.) ②Wide range of optional services (electrical work, air conditioner cleaning, temporary furniture storage, etc.) | Here |
| Apple Moving Center | Special discount moving days (morning or flexible afternoon slots available) | ①Supports IKEA furniture disassembly and reassembly ②Free bugging device inspection ③No rescheduling fee even if changed the day before (some exceptions apply) | Here |
| Arisan Mark Moving Company | Full Pack, Arisan Pack, Economy Pack, etc. | ①Various optional services (electrical work, heavy item relocation, key replacement, pest control, etc.) ②All workers have a "guarantor" system in place | Here |
| Heart Moving Center | Standard, Economy, Perfect, Excellent Pack, Full Support Pack, etc. | ①Earn Ponta points with your move ②Sells furniture and household items for new homes | Here |
Sorting and Disposing of Unwanted Items
Decluttering before moving can reduce the amount of luggage and help cut moving costs. Selling items through recycle shops or flea market apps is an option, but since large furniture and home appliances can significantly impact moving expenses, it’s best to minimize them as much as possible.
If using municipal bulk waste collection, advance reservations are required. Check the collection dates and schedule the disposal accordingly. The frequency of collection varies by municipality, so plan and book in advance.
2 to 3 Weeks Before Moving: Time to Get Serious About Preparation
Start Packing
Begin packing with items you don’t need immediately. Packing off-season clothes, books, decorations, and other non-essential items first will help keep things running smoothly up to the day before your move.
Label Boxes with Contents and Destination Rooms
To make unpacking easier, write down the contents and the intended location on each box. For frequently used items like kitchen and bathroom supplies, labeling them clearly will help you find them quickly after moving in.
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Pack Fragile Items Carefully
Wrap fragile items such as dishes and glassware with newspapers or protective materials. Mark boxes containing breakables with a “Fragile” label so that movers will handle them with extra care.
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Change of Address Procedures
If you want your mail forwarded to your new address, submit a change-of-address notification at the post office and apply for the "Mail Forwarding Service." This service is free, but processing takes around 3–7 business days, so it's best to complete it early.
*The forwarding period is one year from the date of application.
*After the forwarding period ends, undelivered mail will be returned to the sender.
Update Address for Credit Cards and Online Shopping
Update your registered address with online shopping sites and financial institutions to prevent misdeliveries. Also, don’t forget to change the billing address for utilities—failure to do so might result in unpaid bills.
Utility Services (Electricity, Gas, Water, Internet)
Schedule the termination of utilities at your old residence and arrange for activation at your new home in advance. Gas setup often requires a technician visit, so be sure to book an appointment early. Internet service transfers can also take time, so it's important to apply as soon as possible.
Submitting a Moving-Out Notification (Municipal Office)
If you are moving to a different city, you must submit a moving-out notification at your current municipal office between 14 days before and the day of your move. You will receive a "Moving-Out Certificate," which is required for registering your new address. Failing to complete this process may prevent you from registering at your new location and could result in penalties, so don’t forget to handle this on time.
1 Week Before Moving: Final Preparations
When there's only one week left before your move, make sure to do a final check and prepare everything.
Finish Packing
Aim to complete packing by the day before your move, leaving only essential items for daily life. Keep valuables, a change of clothes, and other necessities in a separate, easily accessible place.
Clean and Inspect Your New Home
If you can visit your new home before moving in, cleaning in advance will help you settle in more quickly.
Prepare for Neighbor Greetings
If you plan to greet your new neighbors on moving day, prepare small gifts in advance. Practical items like detergent, kitchen paper, towels, individually wrapped sweets, or long-lasting tea/coffee are commonly appreciated.
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Moving Day: Ensuring a Smooth Move
Moving day can be hectic, so try to stay calm and organized.
Supervise the Moving Process
Be present while movers load your belongings, provide directions if needed, and do a final check to ensure nothing is left behind.
Clean and Return the Keys to Your Old Home
Dispose of any remaining trash and return the keys to the landlord or management company. If they need to inspect the property, schedule a time that works for both parties.
Supervise the Unloading Process at Your New Home
Direct movers on furniture placement and check that appliances and plumbing are functioning properly.
Gas Activation Appointment
To ensure your kitchen and hot water work immediately, schedule a gas activation appointment on your moving day.
Quick Cleaning of Your New Home
After everything is moved in, do a quick dusting and wipe down surfaces before unpacking.
Greet Your New Neighbors
For houses, greet your immediate neighbors on both sides and across the street. For apartments, greeting neighbors in the units above, below, and next to yours is a good practice. If you’re moving in alone, especially as a woman, skipping introductions for privacy reasons is acceptable.
After Moving: Settling into Your New Life
Within one week after moving, complete the necessary procedures and check your new living environment.
Submitting a Move-In Notification (Municipal Office)
If you have moved to a new municipality, you must submit a move-in notification within 14 days. Visit the municipal office in charge of your new address with the required documents listed below:
Certificate of Moving Out
- Identification (Driver’s license, health insurance card, residence card, etc.)
- Personal seal (if applicable)
- My Number Card or Basic Resident Registration Card (if issued)
Say Goodbye to Tedious Paperwork! A New Online Service
Since February 6, 2023, the "Online Moving Procedures Service" allows you to submit moving-out notifications and schedule moving-in/moving notifications online through the My Number Portal. The benefits include eliminating the need for in-person visits, 24/7 availability, and the ability to check the progress of your application, making your moving process much smoother.
Even foreign residents with a My Number Card can use this service, so be sure to take advantage of it.
Updating Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
You can update your driver's license address at the nearest driver's license testing center, renewal center, or the police station responsible for your new address.
If you own a vehicle, don't forget to update your garage certificate and vehicle inspection certificate as well.
Updating Your Residence Card
Foreign residents with a residence card must update their address when moving within Japan. While visa-related procedures are handled at the Immigration Services Agency, address changes must be reported to the municipal office of your new residence.
Failure to report an address change may result in penalties under the Immigration Control and Basic Resident Registration laws and could affect future residence status renewals or changes. Be sure to complete this procedure as soon as possible after moving.
Checking Your New Living Environment
Getting familiar with essential facilities such as nearby supermarkets and hospitals can help you settle into your new environment quickly. It’s also a good idea to check designated evacuation sites (such as school grounds, gymnasiums, or municipal facilities) in case of a major earthquake or other disaster.
Moving Preparation Checklist
A well-planned move ensures a smooth transition into your new home. Choosing a moving company, decluttering unnecessary items, and handling utility procedures early can make the process easier. Additionally, greeting your new neighbors can help you integrate into the community more smoothly. Moving can be hectic, but thorough preparation will help you enjoy a comfortable new life.
- Moving peak seasons (March–April, September–October) require early booking of moving services.
- Don’t forget to complete utility procedures and address changes.
- Keep essentials like valuables and basic necessities within reach on moving day.
- Use helpful apps and web services (e.g., "Hikkoshi Renraku-cho") to streamline the process.
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