Moving house or apartment can be a challenging task anywhere in the world, but in Japan, this process has particularities that reflect the culture, organization, and peculiarities of the country. Have you heard of Hikkoshiya? In this article, we will explore how house moves are carried out in Japan, from hiring services to the details that make this process unique.
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How are domestic moves done in Japan?
Planning is one of the most crucial steps in any move, and in Japan, this process is taken very seriously. A domestic move in Japan involves a series of steps that ensure everything goes smoothly and without problems.
The first step in planning a domestic move is to request a quote. Most moving companies offer this service for free. A representative visits the residence to assess the volume of items to be transported, the complexity of the move, and the specific needs of the client.
Moving companies in Japan offer a range of services that include packing and unpacking to assembling and disassembling furniture. Clients can choose between complete packages, where the company takes care of all the details, or opt for more basic services, depending on the budget and personal preferences.
Comparison between moves in Brazil vs Japan
In Brazil, planning is equally important, but moves tend to be more flexible, allowing the client to choose from different service packages, such as those offered by moving companies in Brasília. There are companies that provide the complete service, but it is common to hire private individuals who have a freight truck.
Vehicle Transport
In both countries, there are companies responsible for transporting vehicles. In Brazil, we have vehicle freight companies that offer specialized services ensuring that cars and motorcycles arrive at their destination safely and on time.
For those needing more specific services, such as motorcycle transport, the Motorcycle Carrier is a reliable option, offering customized solutions for this type of vehicle, whether for local or interstate moves.
What is Hikkoshiya?
Specialized moving companies, known as “hikkoshi-ya” (引っ越し屋), offer a complete range of services that go far beyond the transportation of furniture and boxes. Most of these companies offer packages that can include everything from packing all household items to cleaning the old residence after the move.
The services offered by moving companies in Japan, known as Hikkoshiya, are widely varied and adaptable to the needs of clients. Basic packages typically include the transportation of items and the loading and unloading of furniture and boxes. Standard packages may add packing and organization services in the new residence.
For those seeking maximum convenience, complete packages offer, in addition to all these services, the disassembly and reassembly of furniture, post-move cleaning, and unpacking of items, making the new home ready to live in.
See below some of the services provided by Hikkoshiya:
- Transportation of Items
- Packing and Unpacking
- Assembly and Disassembly of Furniture
- Post-Move Cleaning
- Vehicle Transport
- Temporary Storage
- Insurance for Transported Items
- Document Management and International Moves
- Junk Removal and Disposal of Unused Items
- Pet Assistance Service
How much does a domestic move cost in Japan?
In Japan, the prices of moves vary significantly depending on the type of service chosen, the distance between residences, and the time of year. During the months of March and April, which coincide with the start of the fiscal year and the beginning of classes, the demand for moving services is high, which can drive up prices.
During periods of lower demand, such as in the fall, costs may be more accessible. Generally speaking, the price of a basic moving service can start around ¥30,000, while a complete service can exceed ¥300,000.
The pricing of moving services in Japan is influenced by several factors, including the size of the residence, the volume of items to be transported, and the distance between residences. The level of service chosen also significantly impacts the cost. Additionally, local companies may offer more competitive prices, and it is possible to negotiate discounts.
List of Hikkoshiya Companies
Generally, moving services in Japan are provided by reputable companies, often involved in the transportation business. Yamato Transport, for example, is known for its extensive network and high-quality customer service, while Nippon Express is popular among expatriates due to its expertise in international moves.
Art Corporation stands out for its attention to detail, especially in handling fragile items, and Sagawa Express is valued for its speed and efficiency, ideal for moves with tight deadlines.
Below is a complete list of some Hikkoshiya companies:
- Yamato Transport (Kuro Neko)
- Nippon Express
- Art Corporation
- Sagawa Express
- Daiwa Logistics
- Sakai Moving Service
- Akabou (Red Cap)
- Japan Removal
- Maruwa Unyu Kikan
- Hitachi Transport System
In addition to the large national Hikkoshiya companies, there are several local moving companies in Japan that specifically serve certain regions or cities. These local companies often offer more affordable and personalized services.
Some examples of local companies include:
- Tokyo Hikkoshi Center (Tokyo)
- Osaka Moving Service (Osaka)
- Nagoya Removal Service (Nagoya)
- Kyoto Hikkoshiya (Kyoto)
- Fukuoka Moving Company (Fukuoka)
- Hokkaido Hikkoshi Service (Sapporo, Hokkaido)
- Hiroshima Moving (Hiroshima)
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