Common questions
Short answers to what people actually ask about moving and clearing out a home in Japan. Tap any question for the longer version.
How much does moving cost in Japan?
A single-person move typically costs ¥30,000–100,000, while a family move ranges from ¥100,000–300,000. Prices vary by season (March–April peak is more expensive), distance, and volume. Compare quotes from multiple movers for free on IeGo.
Read more →When is the best time to move in Japan?
May through February is off-season with lower rates. June and November are particularly good months. March–April is peak season due to the new fiscal year, and prices can be 1.5–2x higher.
Read more →How do I dispose of furniture in Japan?
Three options: (1) Request oversized garbage pickup from your municipality (¥100s–¥1,000s), (2) Sell to recycle shops, (3) List on IeGo Marketplace or hire a disposal service through IeGo. For large furniture, comparing disposal services on IeGo is the easiest approach.
Read more →What documents do I need when moving in Japan?
Key procedures: (1) Moving-out notice at your old ward office, (2) Moving-in notice at your new ward office (within 14 days), (3) Mail forwarding at the post office, (4) Driver's license address update, (5) National health insurance and pension updates, (6) Bank, credit card, and subscription address changes.
Read more →Can I book moving and junk removal at the same time?
Yes. On IeGo you can book moving and junk removal (不用品回収) in a single request. Bundling them is cheaper and simpler than hiring separately—unwanted furniture and appliances are hauled away on moving day. Pricing depends on item type and volume, and quotes are free.
Read more →Is moving cheaper on weekdays than weekends in Japan?
Yes. Weekdays are typically 20–30% cheaper than weekends and holidays. Tuesday–Thursday with a "free" slot (no fixed arrival time) is cheapest. Month-end, month-start, and lucky calendar days (大安) get busy and cost more. If your dates are flexible, a weekday free slot saves the most.
Read more →How do I dispose of a fridge or washing machine in Japan?
TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners fall under Japan's Home Appliance Recycling Law and cannot go out as oversized garbage. Options: retailer take-back, municipality-designated collection, or a disposal service. Expect a recycling fee (a few thousand yen) plus haulage. Compare disposal pros free on IeGo.
Read more →How much does junk removal cost in Japan?
Single items start from a few thousand yen; a "load-it-all" light-truck plan runs ¥10,000–30,000, and a 2-ton truck ¥30,000–80,000. Price varies by item, volume, floor level, and region. It costs more than municipal pickup but includes same-day, carry-out service. Compare providers free on IeGo.
Read more →What is a single-person moving pack (tanshin pack)?
A single-person pack (単身パック) moves whatever fits in a dedicated container (about 1–1.7 m³) for a flat rate—ideal for people with few belongings. Roughly ¥15,000–30,000 within the same city and affordable even long-distance. Best for students or light loads; if you have a lot, a standard move can be cheaper.
Read more →When should I start packing for a move in Japan?
Start about 1–2 weeks ahead for a single-person move, or 3–4 weeks for a family. Pack rarely-used items first (seasonal goods, books) and everyday items the day before. Get boxes from your mover early and label them by room so unloading goes smoothly.
Read more →Can foreigners hire movers in Japan?
Yes. Anyone can hire movers regardless of nationality or visa status. More movers now offer English support, and IeGo is fully bilingual (Japanese/English)—from requesting quotes to booking and payment. We also guide you through moving-in registration and address changes.
Read more →
Quotes are free — start with an estimate