Shipping and Removals in Japan

As an island nation, the former Empire of Japan depended on imported goods and products to drive their burgeoning industry. As a result, the country cultivated a thriving shipping sector that still works to provide expats with a number of easy and efficient options for shipping goods to Japan.

With the exception of high-end luxury service apartments, most accommodation is unfurnished. For this reason, many employers include a shipping allowance in expat contracts. Don't be afraid to breach this topic when negotiating, shipping costs can quickly become sky-high if one is not careful.

Generally speaking, household items are duty-free and tax-free, provided they are not new. If shipping items to Japan, make an inventory of the goods you'll be sending across, and bring at least two copies in your carry-on luggage. Upon arrival at the airport, complete two copies of the "Unaccompanied Baggage Form" and present it to customs officials along with a copy of your inventory. This will expedite the clearance process.

If not interested in shipping, expats also have the option of buying furniture in Japan. There are plenty of stores dealing in interior decor and household furnishings. Furthermore, if not opposed to second-hand goodies, expats leaving the country often have large-scale "sayonara sales", where its possible to bag a bargain and find nearly new items for far less than you'd ordinarily pay for them. Look for listings on supermarket notice boards, or on classified web sites.

As a quirky alternative to both shipping to Japan and buying in Japan, expats also have the option to lease home furnishings. One company in particular, Tokyo Lease, is lauded for its varied and stylish inventory, with flexible rental periods. They also often sell rented bits and bobs at discounted prices.