Moving Preparation Schedule
Early preparation is key for a smooth moving process.
The busiest times for renting properties in Japan occur twice a year: from January to March and from September to October.
From January to March, many people move in preparation for the new academic year starting in April, making this period the busiest time of year for real estate agencies. This is when students move out for university and new employees relocate for work, leading to an increase in demand for single-person accommodations. Although more properties become available during this period, competition is fierce, and it’s common for a desired property to be taken within just a week of consideration.
From September to October, a second busy period occurs due to job transfers and company relocations. Many families move during this time, so a wide range of properties, including larger units like 1LDK (one-bedroom with living-dining-kitchen), become available. However, there are generally fewer properties available compared to the January-March period.
Now, let’s go over the key steps for moving preparation.
Key Tips for Moving Preparation
1. Decide on Your Moving Date
Choose your moving date as early as possible. During peak moving periods, moving company reservations can fill up quickly. For the January to early April busy season, it’s ideal to book your moving service two months in advance, and booking just one month ahead may leave you scrambling for availability. Outside of peak periods, a few weeks’ notice is usually sufficient. Once you’ve confirmed your new residence, coordinate your moving date around your work or school schedule as soon as possible.
2. Select a Moving Company
When choosing a moving company, compare quotes from multiple providers. Prices and services can vary significantly, so it’s important to choose a company that meets your needs. SmileHome can also help by recommending reliable moving companies. Feel free to reach out for assistance!
3. Dispose of Unwanted Items
To reduce moving costs, minimize the number of items you bring by disposing of things you no longer need. Options for disposing of unwanted items include selling them to recycling shops, online auctions, flea market apps, or local classifieds. You can also consider donating items. Some stores, like H&M and Uniqlo, accept used clothing for recycling.
4. Start Packing Early
According to a moving survey, the average time needed for packing is 4.9 days for individuals and 8.0 days for families. Start packing early, beginning with items you won’t need until after the move. For convenience, clothing packed in suitcases can often be transported by the moving company as-is.
We can help arrange moving services for you, and SmileHome also offers language support for foreign nationals. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any assistance.