How many times have you moved so far?
As for me, I’ve moved eight times since childhood, and several of those moves were handled by professional moving companies.
When I lived alone, I sometimes rented a big van and did it myself—but once you have more furniture or family members, it quickly becomes too much for one person.
This time, let’s explore how moving works in Japan and how to find the right company for your needs.
Moving Companies in Japan
Just like in other countries, Japan has a wide variety of moving companies — from small local operators offering budget services to large national firms known for their professionalism and quality.
While some people still prefer to move their belongings by themselves, most people today use a moving company, especially since there are many affordable “single-person” plans available.
Major moving companies in Japan:
- Sakai Moving Service (サカイ引越センター)
- Art Moving Center (アート引越センター)
- Arisan Mark Moving Company (アリさんマークの引越社)
- Yamato Transport (ヤマト運輸)
Basic Steps When Hiring a Moving Company in Japan
1. Choose a Company
Start by listing everything you plan to take with you.
If you live alone and don’t have much furniture or valuables, a budget company should be fine.
However, if you have many belongings or want extra care to avoid damage to your new place, it’s safer to go with a major, reputable company.
Budget movers are reliable too, but their level of care and protection often differs.
2. Decide on a Moving Date
In Japan, February and March are the busiest months due to the start of the new school and work year in April.
Prices rise sharply during this period, and weekends or holidays are more expensive than weekdays.
Since schedules fill up fast, prepare at least two or three possible moving dates.
3. Get a Quote
Contact the company for an estimate.
You can often do this online or by phone, but the most accurate quote comes from an in-home inspection.
Some companies even offer full packing services, so make sure to ask about options and clarify any questions.
Estimates are free, and you should ideally book your quote at least one month before your moving date.
4. Sign the Contract & Prepare
Once you’re satisfied with the estimate, sign the contract and begin packing.
Most companies deliver the necessary cardboard boxes about two weeks before your moving day.
Average Moving Costs in Japan
Moving costs vary by season, distance, and amount of luggage.
Below are rough averages:
| Type of Move | Example | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single person | Within Tokyo | ¥30,000–¥60,000 |
| 4-person family | Tokyo → nearby prefecture | ¥100,000–¥150,000 |
| 2-person household | Tokyo → Osaka | ¥150,000–¥200,000 |
My experience:
When I lived alone, I once paid just ¥20,000 using a budget mover within Tokyo.
Later, when I moved with my partner to a neighboring prefecture using a major company, it cost ¥80,000—but the speed and quality were exceptional.
Situations That Increase Costs
- Moving during March–early April (peak season)
- Apartments without elevators or with poor access
- Significant difference between quoted and actual load
- Long-distance moves
Tips to Save Money on Your Move
Avoid busy seasons and weekends.
Plan early and move on a weekday if possible.
Get multiple quotes.
Prices vary between companies.
Even though it takes time, comparing several estimates gives you negotiation power—and sometimes, if you show a lower quote from another company, they’ll offer a discount.
Don’t specify an exact time.
Moving companies often handle multiple moves per day.
Choosing a flexible, “no-time-specified” option can sometimes lower your cost.
By the way, helping the movers yourself doesn’t earn a discount—just leave it to them. You’ll be amazed by how efficient they are.
Insider Tip: How to Negotiate the Price
There’s no fixed pricing system.
Estimates are subjective and depend on the salesperson.
The first price they offer is never the final one.
Don’t accept it immediately.
Instead, say something like:
“I’ll think about it and get back to you.”
Usually, they’ll contact their office and return with:
“We adjusted the price—it can be done for this amount.”
That’s your real offer.
In one of my moves, I managed to reduce the quote from ¥120,000 to ¥80,000, and the quality of service remained excellent.
For budget movers, however, negotiation isn’t recommended since their prices are already minimal.
About Tips (Kokorozuke)
Japan doesn’t have a tipping culture, but there’s a unique custom called kokorozuke (a small token of appreciation).
It’s not required, but offering a tip before the work starts might motivate the crew.
¥500–¥1,000 per person is enough.
If you’re on a budget, providing drinks is perfectly fine too—it’s the thought that counts.
Recommended English-Speaking Moving Company
Sakai Moving Service (English Page)
Final Thoughts
What do you think?
I once moved with a rental truck and a few friends, but after paying for the rental and treating them to dinner, the total cost wasn’t much cheaper than hiring professionals.
Using a Japanese moving company—where you don’t have to lift a finger—might actually be worth it.
While English-speaking movers are rare, if you have a Japanese-speaking friend, ask them to help with the arrangements.
Thank you for reading!
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