Moving Apartment in Tokyo: don’t forget to do this.
Relocating within Tokyo can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re an expat juggling work, paperwork, and language barriers. But with the right steps, moving doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are 7 essential steps to help make your Tokyo apartment move smooth and efficient.
1. Plan Ahead and Set a Timeline
Tokyo moves happen fast — often with only one month’s notice. As soon as you know your move-out date, start planning. List what needs to be done week by week: cancel utilities, notify your ward office (kuyakusho), book your movers, and start decluttering.
2. Understand Japanese Rental Rules
Before you move out, you’ll need to give notice (usually 1 month), deep-clean your apartment, and possibly pay a cleaning or restoration fee. Make sure you check your contract for details about key money, deposit refunds, and move-out inspections.
3. Book a Trusted Moving Company
Moving companies in Tokyo vary widely in service and price. Choose a provider familiar with expat needs — like JapanMovin. Look for companies offering bilingual staff, clear pricing, and help with logistics in small buildings with no elevators. Some companies also offer packing and unpacking services, which can be a huge time-saver. Check below for a trusted option that specializes in expat moves in Tokyo.
4. Sort and Dispose of Items Properly
You can’t just throw everything away in Tokyo. Oversized items (sodai gomi) require special pickup, and electronics can’t go with normal trash. Book disposal services in advance through your ward office, or ask your movers if they can help. Some moving companies can handle bulk disposal for an extra fee, saving you the hassle. Be sure to check if pickup dates align with your move-out schedule to avoid fines.
5. Change Your Address Everywhere
Visit your ward office to file a tenkyo todoke (change of address). Update your address with your bank, employer, phone provider, and online shopping sites. Japan’s mail forwarding service (tenkyo-todoke) via Japan Post can forward mail for one year. It’s also a good idea to notify your insurance provider and health system to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
6. Protect Your Deposit
Avoid last-minute surprises by cleaning thoroughly and repairing any minor damage. Document everything with photos. Consider hiring a cleaning service to ensure the apartment meets local standards.
7. Choose a Moving Day Strategically
Weekends and end-of-month dates book up quickly and cost more. If possible, choose a weekday in the middle of the month — it’s cheaper and easier to schedule. his is especially true during peak moving seasons like March and April, when many leases end. Booking early not only secures a better time slot but also gives you more flexibility in coordinating with utility companies and landlords.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Utilities
Schedule the disconnection and reconnection of your electricity, gas, and water services in advance. In Japan, many utility companies require you to be physically present when the gas is turned on at your new address. You can often handle the change of address for electricity and water online, but give yourself a few days of buffer to avoid any inconvenience.
Need Help Moving?
Moving apartment in Tokyo?
JapanMovin is an expat-friendly moving company based in Tokyo. With multilingual support and flexible packages, we make local relocations smooth and hassle-free.
Our team is made up of international professionals who have lived the expat experience themselves — we understand the challenges of moving in a foreign country. Whether you’re relocating alone, with a family, or transitioning between short-term rentals, we provide reliable, efficient, and culturally sensitive service.
From navigating small Tokyo apartments to assisting with paperwork and scheduling, we go beyond simple transportation. Our mission is to remove the stress from your move so you can focus on settling into your new home.