Moving to Japan is an exciting journey, whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a new adventure. One of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to get your belongings there efficiently and affordably. Traditional international removals can be slow and costly, while airline excess baggage fees can quickly add up.
That’s where My Baggage comes in. We offer a fast, cost-effective way to ship your personal belongings to Japan via air freight – helping you avoid long transit times and expensive moving services. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shipping your items to Japan and making your move as smooth as possible.
Choosing the Best Shipping Method to Japan
When moving to Japan, choosing the right shipping method depends on how much you’re sending, your budget, and how quickly you need your items to arrive.
Sea Freight vs. Air Freight
- Sea Freight: Generally the cheapest option for bulk shipping, but it can take several weeks or even months for your items to arrive.
- Air Freight (My Baggage): The fastest and most convenient option. Unlike traditional air freight companies, My Baggage provides an easy-to-use online booking system, allowing you to get a quote and book your shipment 24/7. Plus, our friendly team is available by phone, email, and live chat, and we offer an extensive online support section to guide you every step of the way.
Unlike traditional international removals, My Baggage’s service is much quicker than sea freight and often far more affordable than standard air freight. This makes it a practical and cost-effective choice for expats, students, and professionals moving to Japan.
How to Pack for Shipping to Japan
Packing properly is key to ensuring your belongings arrive safely in Japan. Here are some packaging tips:
- Use Sturdy Boxes & Suitcases – Choose double-walled boxes or durable suitcases to protect your items.
- Wrap Fragile Items Carefully – Use bubble wrap and packing paper to help prevent damage. While damage is rare, proper packaging can provide extra peace of mind.
- Label Clearly – Make sure each item is labelled with clear, legible shipping details. We also recommend placing a second label inside your shipment in case the outer label gets damaged.
- Avoid Overpacking – Overloading boxes or suitcases can increase the risk of damage in transit. Keeping items secure but not overloaded ensures better protection.
Understanding Japan’s Customs Regulations
Japan has strict import regulations, so being prepared will help you avoid delays or additional costs.
Essential Customs Documents
- Customs Declaration Form – Required for all shipments.
- Application for Duty-Free Import – If you’re moving to Japan for work or study, you may be eligible for duty-free import, provided your items have been in your possession for at least six months.
Restricted & Prohibited Items
- Food Products – Fresh food, dairy, and meat are highly restricted.
- Medications – Some prescription drugs require approval before entry.
- Used Household Goods – Furniture and outdoor equipment may be subject to inspection.
Tip: When you book your shipment with My Baggage, we’ll generate your customs forms for you to complete easily online – making your move to Japan even simpler!
Shipping Costs & Estimated Delivery Times
The cost of shipping to Japan depends on several factors:
- Weight & Volume – Heavier and larger shipments cost more.
- Delivery Speed – Express services cost more but arrive faster.
- Final Destination – Remote areas may have additional delivery fees.
Estimated Delivery Times to Japan with My Baggage
- Express Shipping: 2-3 days
- Economy Shipping: 4-5 days
Delivery times vary depending on your collection country and the service you select. We offer a range of shipping options to suit your needs.
How to Ship Your Belongings to Japan with My Baggage
Shipping to Japan My Baggage is straightforward and hassle-free:
- Get an instant quote and book online.
- Complete your customs forms that we generate for you.
- Print and attach your shipping labels.
- We’ll collect your items.
- We’ll deliver your items to Japan.
Full online tracking is provided, so you can monitor the progress of your belongings as they make their way to Japan.
Extra Moving Tips for Japan
Beyond shipping your belongings, here are some key tips to help you settle in smoothly:
- Understand Visa Requirements – Make sure you have the right visa for work, study, or long-term residency.
- Arrange Accommodation Early – Japanese rental agreements can be different from what you’re used to, so research in advance.
- Open a Japanese Bank Account – This will make everyday transactions and payments much easier.
Learn Basic Japanese – Even a few key phrases can make a big difference in daily life and help with settling in.
Seamless Relocation to Japan
Relocating to Japan is an exciting adventure, and shipping your belongings doesn’t have to be a stressful part of the journey. With My Baggage, you get a fast, affordable, and hassle-free way to send your personal items to Japan via air freight—avoiding the delays of sea freight and the high costs of traditional international removals.
Ready to start your move? Get your instant quote today and let My Baggage help you make your transition to Japan as smooth as possible!
