How to find and check movers and couriers in Japan - guide

How people commonly look for movers and couriers

Search habits vary by region. Many start with online searches and comparison sites, then check company websites and customer reviews. Word of mouth is still important - asking friends, colleagues or building managers can point to reliable local firms. For urgent small deliveries people often use courier apps or well-known national companies; for household moves people consider specialist moving companies.

When you search, look for recent reviews and clear contact details. In areas with many narrow streets or older apartment buildings you may prioritise providers with local experience.

What to check on a provider before contacting them

Before you contact a mover or courier, gather the facts you need for an accurate quote and to compare providers. Note the pick-up and delivery addresses, access constraints such as stairs or elevator size, the size and weight of bulky items, and any fragile or high-value items.

Check whether the provider lists services you need - packing, wrapping, disassembly and reassembly, storage, and disposal of unwanted items. Look for photos of vehicles and staff, clear service descriptions, and up-to-date contact information.

• Company or sole trader name and phone number
• Vehicle size and number of movers included
• Services offered - packing, boxes, storage
• Insurance or compensation terms
• Cancellation and rescheduling policy

Questions to ask before you agree

Ask for a written or emailed quote and what it covers. Clarify whether the price includes time, distance, vehicle charges, parking or building fees, and any extra charges for stairs or narrow access. Confirm how many movers will attend and the estimated hours for the job.

Other useful questions cover the mover's handling of fragile items, whether they provide packing materials, how they label and inventory items, and what happens if something is damaged or lost. If your move involves long-distance transport or cross-prefecture work, ask about transit times and handling during transport.

• Can I get the quote in writing and is there a detailed breakdown?
• How many people and what truck size will you provide?
• Do you offer insurance and what does it cover?
• What are your extra charges for stairs, long carries, or narrow roads?

What is specific to Japan for this trade

Expect peak demand around the end of March and start of April. Many companies are busiest then because the school year and fiscal year change. Weekends and month-ends are often busier and more expensive. Plan and book earlier than you might in quieter seasons.

Language is a practical consideration. Most small and medium movers operate primarily in Japanese. Larger national firms or firms in major cities may offer some English support but do not assume it. If you do not speak Japanese, prepare written notes with key details, use translation apps, or ask for an English-speaking contact when you book.

Check registration and insurance. Ask whether the provider is properly registered to operate transport services and whether they carry cargo or liability insurance. Requirements vary by type and scale of transport and by vehicle - if this matters to you, ask to see documentation or a registration number.

How quotes and payment are normally handled

Many movers give estimates from photos or descriptions, but for larger moves an on-site survey or detailed inventory often produces a more accurate written quote. Ask whether the quote is binding or an estimate and how final charges are calculated.

Payment methods vary. Providers may accept bank transfer, cash, or card. Confirm payment timing - some require a deposit, some ask for payment on delivery, and others bill after the job. If you need to pay by card, check whether the provider accepts cards directly or uses a payments platform.

How a Websta profile helps you compare providers

A Websta provider profile functions like a compact website. It lists the services a provider offers, photos, any prices they publish, a contact form and online booking option when available, and the ability to receive task posts from people nearby. Card payments from customers on Websta are paid out to the provider's own bank account through Stripe; providers set their own prices.

Use profiles to compare service descriptions, photos of equipment, and any service notes. The marketplace function lets you post a task and receive offers - this can speed up comparing availability and proposed terms. Always follow up with the provider to confirm specifics and get a written quote before booking.

On the day and what to do if things go wrong

On the move day confirm the arrival window, the team size and truck. Keep an inventory or take photos of high-value items before loading. If items are damaged or missing, document the condition and contact the provider immediately to follow their claims procedure.

If you cannot resolve a dispute with the provider, document communications and consider contacting consumer advice or a local trade association. For bookings made through a marketplace, keep copies of the task posting, offers received, and any messages as evidence.

• Confirm arrival time and team composition on the morning
• Take photos of fragile or high-value items before loading
• Get damage reports and written confirmation if something happens