Japan’s luggage delivery system, known as takkyubin (宅急便) or “hands-free travel,” is one of the country’s most convenient services for both travelers and locals.
This system allows you to send your luggage ahead to your destination, freeing you from the burden of carrying heavy bags while navigating Japan’s busy transportation networks.
Understanding Japan’s Luggage Delivery System (Takkyubin)
What is Takkyubin?
Takkyubin literally translates to “home quick delivery” and refers to the door-to-door delivery services that have become an integral part of Japanese daily life.
For travelers, this service is particularly valuable as it enables you to forward suitcases, backpacks, sports equipment, and other luggage directly to your next accommodation or even to the airport.
Popular Takkyubin Providers
Several companies offer luggage delivery services in Japan, with the most prominent being:
- Yamato Transport (ヤマト運輸): Commonly known as “Kuroneko Yamato” (Black Cat), this is the largest and most recognizable luggage delivery service in Japan. Their black cat logo is ubiquitous throughout the country, and they handle approximately 60% of all parcel deliveries in Japan.
- JAL ABC (JAL Authorized Baggage Courier): Operated in partnership with Japan Airlines, this service specializes in airport-to-accommodation (and vice versa) deliveries. They’re particularly popular with international travelers and offer multilingual support.
- Sagawa Express (佐川急便): Another major delivery company in Japan that offers similar services to Yamato, recognizable by their green and yellow logo.
How Takkyubin Works
The process is remarkably straightforward:
- Drop off your luggage at a convenience store (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart), your hotel front desk, or a dedicated takkyubin office
- Fill out a simple shipping form with your delivery details (destination address, phone number, delivery date)
- Pay the fee based on luggage size and delivery distance
- Receive a tracking number to monitor your shipment
- Collect your luggage at your destination on the specified delivery date
Many hotels in Japan offer takkyubin services directly at their front desk, making the process even more convenient for travelers.
Why Takkyubin is Popular
The popularity of takkyubin among both travelers and locals stems from several key advantages:
- Convenience: Travel luggage-free on crowded trains and buses
- Reliability: Extremely punctual delivery with almost no instances of lost luggage
- Accessibility: Available throughout Japan, even in remote areas
- Affordability: Reasonably priced compared to the hassle of transporting luggage yourself
- Time-saving: Skip baggage check-in lines at airports when sending directly to your accommodation
Basic Pricing Structure
Takkyubin fees are determined primarily by two factors: the size/weight of your luggage and the distance it needs to travel. As a general guideline:
| Luggage Size | Same Prefecture | Adjacent Prefecture | Long Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (〜60cm) | ¥800-1,200 | ¥1,000-1,400 | ¥1,400-1,800 |
| Medium (〜80cm) | ¥1,000-1,400 | ¥1,200-1,600 | ¥1,600-2,000 |
| Large (〜100cm) | ¥1,200-1,600 | ¥1,400-1,800 | ¥1,800-2,400 |
| Extra Large (〜120cm) | ¥1,400-1,800 | ¥1,600-2,000 | ¥2,000-2,800 |
Note: These are approximate ranges. Actual prices may vary based on specific routes and providers.
Additional fees may apply for same-day or next-day delivery, oversized items, or deliveries to remote locations. However, even with these potential surcharges, most travelers find takkyubin services to be an excellent value considering the convenience they provide.
How Early Can You Send Luggage with Takkyubin?
When planning your trip around Japan, understanding the timing of luggage delivery services is crucial. Takkyubin services offer remarkable flexibility, but there are important timeframes to consider.
Standard Delivery Timeframes
The standard delivery timeline for takkyubin services typically ranges from 1-3 days depending on the distance:
- Same-day delivery: Available in limited areas within the same city
- Next-day delivery: Common for destinations within the same region or between major cities like Tokyo and Osaka
- 2-day delivery: Typical for longer distances such as Tokyo to Hokkaido
- 3-day delivery: Usually required for remote areas or distant islands like Okinawa
This tiered system ensures that your luggage arrives at a predictable time, allowing you to plan your itinerary accordingly.
Earliest Possible Sending Time
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “How early can I send my luggage in Japan?” The answer might surprise you with its flexibility:
Yamato Transport and other major carriers allow you to send luggage up to 7-10 days before your intended delivery date. This means you can arrange your luggage delivery well in advance of your trip.
When sending luggage early:
- You’ll need to specify the desired delivery date at the time of sending
- The package will be held at the distribution center until the scheduled delivery date
- Additional storage fees typically don’t apply within this timeframe
This system provides excellent flexibility for travelers who want to plan ahead and ensure their luggage arrives exactly when needed.
Factors That Affect Delivery Timing
Several variables can impact how early you should send your luggage:
- Distance: Longer distances require more time for processing and transportation
- Destination type: Hotels are easier delivery points than private residences
- Size and weight: Oversized or extremely heavy items may require special handling
- Time of drop-off: Most same-day or next-day services require morning drop-off
- Service level: Premium or expedited services may offer faster delivery
For example, sending a standard suitcase from Tokyo to Kyoto for next-day delivery typically requires drop-off by 12:00 PM, while same-day service might need drop-off by 8:00 AM.
Peak Season Considerations
During Japan’s busy travel seasons, delivery timeframes can extend significantly:
- Golden Week (late April to early May)
- Obon Festival (mid-August)
- New Year holidays (late December to early January)
- Cherry blossom season (late March to early April)
During these periods, it’s advisable to:
- Add an extra 1-2 days to the standard delivery estimate
- Send luggage even earlier than you normally would
- Make reservations for luggage delivery in advance when possible
- Check with your hotel about their capacity to store luggage that arrives early
The most cautious approach during peak seasons is to send your luggage at least 3-4 days before you need it, even for destinations that normally receive next-day service.
Same-Day Luggage Delivery in Japan: What You Need to Know
Japan’s efficient transportation network extends to its luggage delivery services, with same-day options available for travelers on tight schedules.
However, these expedited services come with specific requirements and limitations that are essential to understand before planning your journey.
Available Routes for Same-Day Delivery
Same-day luggage delivery in Japan is primarily available between major urban centers and within metropolitan areas. The most reliable same-day routes include:
- Within Tokyo (between different wards and neighboring prefectures)
- Tokyo ↔ Yokohama (approximately 30-40 km)
- Osaka ↔ Kyoto (approximately 40-50 km)
- Within Osaka city limits
- Within major cities (Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo)
Longer distances such as Tokyo to Osaka (approximately 500 km) typically require next-day delivery at minimum, even with expedited services.
Critical Cutoff Times
Same-day delivery depends entirely on meeting strict morning cutoff times:
| Service Area | Typical Cutoff Time | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Within city limits | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Between neighboring cities | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Special express routes | 7:00 AM | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Important note: These times can vary by company and specific route. Yamato Transport (Kuroneko) and Sagawa Express have slightly different cutoff schedules, with Yamato generally offering slightly later morning cutoffs in some areas.
Price Premium for Expedited Service
Same-day delivery comes at a significant premium compared to standard service:
- Standard next-day delivery: ¥1,500-2,500 per item
- Same-day delivery: ¥2,500-4,000 per item (approximately 60-100% premium)
- Special rush delivery: Up to ¥5,000 for guaranteed early afternoon delivery
The price increases based on luggage size, weight, and distance. For example, sending a large suitcase within Tokyo might cost ¥2,500 for same-day service, while sending the same item from Tokyo to Yokohama could cost ¥3,000 or more.
Reliability Factors to Consider
While Japan’s delivery services are renowned for their reliability, same-day service has more variables that can affect delivery:
- Traffic conditions in major urban areas can delay afternoon deliveries
- Weather disruptions may affect delivery guarantees, especially during typhoon season
- Volume limitations during peak travel periods (Golden Week, Obon, New Year)
- Delivery time windows are typically broader for same-day service (2-4 hour windows rather than specific times)
Despite these factors, success rates for same-day delivery remain impressively high at approximately 95-98% according to service performance metrics.
Limitations and Restrictions
Before planning to use same-day delivery, be aware of these important limitations:
- Geographic restrictions: Not available for rural areas or remote islands
- Size and weight limits: Stricter than standard delivery (typically max 20kg for same-day)
- Prohibited items: Same restrictions as regular service (no perishables, valuables, etc.)
- Delivery time guarantees: Usually stated as “by evening” rather than specific times
- Hotel policies: Some hotels may not accept same-day deliveries without prior arrangement
- Weekend/holiday service: Limited availability and earlier cutoff times
For travelers with tight itineraries, same-day service offers valuable flexibility, but requires careful morning planning and typically costs 60-100% more than standard delivery options.
The convenience factor makes it worthwhile for many travelers who need to move between destinations without carrying heavy luggage.
Airport Luggage Services: Check-in Rules and Delivery Options
Japan’s airports offer various luggage handling options that can significantly ease your travel experience. Understanding the specific rules and services available at major airports will help you plan your journey more efficiently.
Airport Check-in Timing Rules
Most Japanese airlines and airports follow consistent baggage check-in policies:
- Standard check-in: Available 2-3 hours before domestic flight departure
- International flights: Check-in counters typically open 3-4 hours before departure
- Early check-in services: Select airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai offer advance check-in up to 24 hours before some flights
- Cut-off times: Baggage must generally be checked at least 45 minutes before domestic departures and 60 minutes before international flights
During peak travel seasons (Golden Week, Obon, New Year), arriving even earlier is recommended as check-in counters can become extremely busy.
Airport-to-Hotel Services
Several convenient options exist for sending your luggage directly from the airport to your accommodation:
- Airport takkyubin counters: Located in arrival areas of major airports, allowing you to forward luggage immediately upon landing
- Delivery timeframe: Generally takes 1-2 days depending on your destination
- Cost: Typically ¥1,500-¥3,000 per piece depending on size and destination
- Advance booking: Not usually required, though some services offer online reservation
This service is particularly valuable when arriving on early morning flights, as you can explore immediately without dragging luggage to a hotel where check-in might not be available until afternoon.
Hotel-to-Airport Services
When departing, you can send luggage ahead to the airport:
- Timing requirement: Most hotels require you to arrange this at least 2 days before your flight
- Service availability: Nearly all hotels in tourist areas can arrange takkyubin to airports
- Delivery location: Luggage is typically held at dedicated counters in the departure area
- ID requirement: You’ll need your flight details and passport when dropping off luggage
This service allows you to enjoy your final days in Japan without luggage concerns, particularly useful when checking out of accommodations hours before your flight.
Regular Takkyubin vs. Airport-Specific Services
There are important distinctions between standard takkyubin and airport-focused services:
| Feature | Regular Takkyubin | Airport-Specific Services |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery speed | 1-3 days standard | Often offers next-day options |
| Tracking | Basic tracking | Enhanced tracking with flight details |
| Size restrictions | More flexible | Stricter adherence to airline requirements |
| Prohibited items | General restrictions | Follows aviation security regulations |
| Price | Generally lower | Premium pricing for airport delivery |
| Booking process | Simple address form | Requires flight information |
Airport services are specifically designed to integrate with flight schedules and security requirements, making them more suitable for travelers despite the higher cost.
Major Airports Covered
Luggage delivery services are available at all major Japanese airports, with the most comprehensive options at:
- Narita International Airport (Tokyo): Full-service counters in all terminals with multilingual staff
- Haneda Airport (Tokyo): Extensive services including same-day delivery to central Tokyo hotels
- Kansai International Airport (Osaka): Comprehensive coverage to Kansai region accommodations
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya): Good coverage throughout central Japan
- New Chitose Airport (Hokkaido): Specialized services for handling sports equipment like ski gear
- Fukuoka Airport: Efficient services connecting to destinations throughout Kyushu
Smaller regional airports typically offer basic luggage delivery services but may have more limited hours and language support.
For travelers with connecting flights within Japan, many airports also offer temporary luggage storage options ranging from a few hours to several days, providing flexibility for short side trips without excess baggage.
Hotel-to-Hotel Luggage Delivery: Planning and Best Practices
Hotel-to-hotel luggage delivery is one of the most popular ways travelers use takkyubin services in Japan, allowing you to travel light between destinations. This convenient service requires some advance planning to ensure your belongings arrive exactly when you need them.
Recommended Lead Times for Hotel-to-Hotel Delivery
When sending luggage between hotels in Japan, timing is crucial. Here are the recommended lead times based on distance:
- Same city delivery: 1 day in advance (e.g., between Tokyo hotels)
- Major city to major city: 1-2 days (e.g., Tokyo to Osaka, Kyoto to Tokyo)
- Major city to rural area: 2-3 days (e.g., Tokyo to Takayama)
- To/from remote locations or islands: 3-4 days (e.g., Tokyo to Okinawa)
Pro tip: Always add an extra day during peak travel seasons like Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year’s (late December to early January) when delivery services experience high demand.
Coordinating with Hotels
Most Japanese hotels are well-accustomed to handling luggage delivery for guests. Here’s how to ensure a smooth process:
- Inform your destination hotel in advance – Contact them by email or phone to let them know you’ll be sending luggage ahead. While not always necessary for large hotels, this is especially important for smaller establishments.
- Complete the delivery form correctly – When sending luggage, you’ll need to fill out a delivery slip with:
- Destination hotel name and address (in Japanese if possible)
- Your name (as it appears on your hotel reservation)
- Your scheduled check-in date
- A contact phone number (your mobile or the sending hotel’s number)
- Keep your tracking number – Take a photo of your delivery slip or write down the tracking number provided. Most companies offer online tracking in multiple languages.
- Timing your arrival – Schedule your luggage to arrive 1 day after your check-in date if possible. This provides buffer time in case of delays and ensures the hotel has your reservation active when luggage arrives.
Special Considerations for Ryokans and Smaller Accommodations
Traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) and boutique accommodations require extra attention:
- Call ahead – Unlike major hotel chains, smaller establishments may have limited staff or specific hours for accepting deliveries. Always call to confirm they can receive your luggage.
- Language barriers – Have your accommodation details written in Japanese (ask your current hotel’s front desk for help if needed). Many ryokans have limited English-speaking staff.
- Address format matters – Japanese addresses can be confusing. For ryokans, include the property name, address, and phone number on your delivery slip. Some delivery services offer address lookup features on their websites.
- Limited storage space – Some smaller properties have minimal storage areas. If sending multiple large pieces, check if they can accommodate them before sending.
- Operating hours – Many ryokans have specific check-in windows (typically 3-5 PM). Ensure your luggage will arrive during business hours, as some traditional accommodations close their reception desks in the evening.
Cost-Saving Tips for Hotel-to-Hotel Delivery
- Consolidate luggage – Sending one larger suitcase instead of multiple small bags can reduce overall costs.
- Use hotel discounts – Some hotels have partnerships with specific delivery companies and offer discounted rates.
- Book round-trip delivery – Some services offer discounts when you arrange both the outgoing and return delivery simultaneously.
By planning your hotel-to-hotel luggage transfers carefully, you can travel comfortably between destinations with just a day pack or small carry-on, making your journey through Japan’s extensive transit systems much more pleasant and stress-free.
Delivery Times Between Major Cities and Remote Locations in Japan
When planning to send your luggage ahead in Japan, understanding the typical delivery timeframes between different locations is crucial for proper trip planning.
Delivery times vary significantly depending on distance, accessibility, and whether your destination is on the mainland or an outlying island.
Major City Pairs on the Mainland
Tokyo to Osaka/Kyoto Region
The Tokyo to Osaka/Kyoto corridor is one of Japan’s busiest routes and benefits from excellent logistics infrastructure. When using standard takkyubin services:
- Next-day delivery: Available if you drop off your luggage before 12:00 PM
- Same-day delivery: Generally not available unless using premium express services
- Peak season: Allow an extra day during Golden Week, Obon, or New Year holidays
Tokyo to Nagoya
Another major route with reliable service:
- Next-day delivery: Typically guaranteed if sent before 2:00 PM
- Morning drop-off: Luggage sent before 10:00 AM may qualify for evening delivery the same day with select premium services
Osaka to Hiroshima
- Next-day delivery: Standard for luggage dropped off before 3:00 PM
- Two-day delivery: Typical if sent after cut-off times or during busy periods
Northern Japan Destinations
Tokyo to Hokkaido (Sapporo)
Due to the greater distance and potential weather considerations:
- Two-day delivery: Standard timeframe year-round
- Winter months: May require 2-3 days during heavy snow seasons
- Express options: Some carriers offer next-day delivery at premium rates
Tokyo to Tohoku Region (Sendai, Aomori)
- Next-day to two-day delivery: Depending on the specific destination
- Rural areas: May require an additional day for final delivery
Southern and Western Japan
Tokyo to Kyushu (Fukuoka, Nagasaki)
- Two-day delivery: Standard timeframe
- Express service: Next-day delivery available at higher cost
Osaka to Kyushu
- Next-day delivery: Often available for major cities like Fukuoka
- Two-day delivery: Standard for other parts of Kyushu
Island Deliveries and Remote Locations
Mainland to Okinawa
Okinawa’s island status significantly impacts delivery times:
- Two to three-day delivery: Standard timeframe from Tokyo or Osaka
- Weather delays: Typhoon season (June-November) may cause additional delays
- Planning tip: Send luggage at least 3-4 days in advance during peak tourist seasons
Smaller Islands (Ishigaki, Miyakojima, etc.)
- Three to four-day delivery: Standard timeframe
- Limited service days: Some smaller islands receive deliveries only on specific days of the week
- Advance planning: Send luggage 4-5 days ahead to be safe
Remote Rural Areas
For destinations in mountainous regions or areas with limited transportation infrastructure:
- Additional 1-2 days: Beyond standard delivery times
- Seasonal considerations: Winter weather in mountainous regions may cause delays
- Verification needed: Always check with the carrier for specific delivery timeframes
Practical Planning Tips
- Buffer days: Always add 1-2 buffer days beyond the estimated delivery time when planning
- Track your packages: Most major carriers provide tracking services via their websites or apps
- Delivery notification: Consider providing your phone number to receive delivery status updates
- Holiday adjustments: During national holidays, add at least one extra day to all estimated delivery times
- Weather alerts: During typhoon season or winter storms, check weather forecasts and plan accordingly
Understanding these timeframes will help you determine how early to send your luggage to ensure it arrives at your destination when needed. For critical timing situations, consider upgrading to express delivery options when available.
Navigating Luggage Delivery During Japan’s Peak Travel Seasons
Japan’s peak travel seasons can significantly impact luggage delivery times, requiring travelers to plan more carefully.
During Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year holidays (December 28-January 4), delivery services experience extremely high demand that can affect their normally reliable schedules.
Impact on Delivery Times
During these peak periods, standard delivery times may be extended by 1-3 additional days depending on your route and the specific holiday:
- Golden Week: Expect 1-2 extra days for delivery, especially for routes connecting major tourist destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
- Obon Festival: Services may require an additional 1-2 days, particularly for deliveries to rural areas or traditional vacation spots
- New Year (最も混雑): The busiest period with potential delays of 2-3 days as many businesses operate with reduced staff
Some remote destinations may experience even longer delays, as courier companies prioritize high-volume routes during these busy periods.
Recommended Buffer Days
To ensure your luggage arrives when needed during peak seasons, follow these buffer recommendations:
| Holiday Period | Normal Route Buffer | Remote Destination Buffer |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Week | +2 days | +3 days |
| Obon Festival | +2 days | +3 days |
| New Year | +3 days | +4-5 days |
For example, if you would normally send luggage 2 days ahead for a Tokyo to Kyoto trip, during New Year you should send it 5 days in advance (standard 2 days + 3 day holiday buffer).
Booking in Advance
During peak seasons, it’s strongly recommended to:
- Book your luggage delivery 3-5 days before your intended drop-off date for guaranteed service
- Reserve online whenever possible through the delivery company’s website or your hotel’s concierge service
- Schedule morning pick-ups as afternoon slots fill quickly during busy periods
- Prepare a backup plan in case your preferred delivery time isn’t available
“During Golden Week and New Year holidays, same-day and next-day delivery options may be suspended entirely on certain routes. Always check with the delivery company for their holiday schedule.”
Many hotels are familiar with these seasonal challenges and can offer guidance specific to your travel dates. When in doubt, consult with your accommodation’s front desk staff for local insights on realistic delivery timeframes during holidays.
How Early Can I Send My Luggage in Japan: Complete Guide to Luggage Forwarding Services
Japan’s efficient luggage delivery services, known as takkyubin (宅急便), offer travelers an incredibly convenient way to explore the country without being weighed down by heavy bags.
Whether you’re planning to send luggage ahead to your hotel, ship souvenirs back home, or simply travel light between destinations, understanding the timing options for these services is essential for smooth travel planning.
As someone who frequently travels throughout Japan, I’ve used these services countless times and can attest to their reliability and convenience.
This comprehensive guide will answer the crucial question: “How early can I send my luggage in Japan?” while providing all the practical information you need to use these services effectively.
What Are Takkyubin Services?
Takkyubin (宅急便) refers to Japan’s door-to-door delivery services that can transport everything from suitcases to sports equipment throughout the country.
These services are operated by several companies, with Yamato Transport (recognizable by their black cat logo, often called “Kuroneko”) being the most widely used, followed by Sagawa Express and JAL ABC.
These services are available at:
- Hotels and ryokans
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart)
- Department stores
- Airport service counters
- Dedicated company branches
The popularity of takkyubin among both locals and tourists stems from Japan’s excellent public transportation system, which, while efficient, isn’t always luggage-friendly.
Narrow train aisles, limited storage space, and crowded stations make traveling with large suitcases challenging.
Earliest Timeframes for Sending Luggage
The question of “how early” you can send luggage in Japan has two interpretations: how far in advance you can arrange the service, and how early your luggage will arrive at its destination. Let’s address both aspects:
How Far in Advance You Can Arrange Delivery
You can generally arrange for takkyubin services up to 7-10 days before your desired delivery date. This flexibility allows for excellent advance planning, especially for longer trips.
Standard Delivery Timeframes
The standard delivery schedule varies based on distance:
| Origin to Destination | Typical Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| Within same city/prefecture | Next day delivery |
| Short distances (e.g., Tokyo to Osaka) | 1-2 days |
| Medium distances (e.g., Tokyo to Fukuoka) | 2 days |
| Long distances (e.g., Tokyo to Okinawa) | 2-3 days |
| Remote areas | 3-4 days |
Pro Tip: During peak travel seasons like Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year holidays, add an extra day to these estimates as services get extremely busy.
Same-Day Delivery Options
In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, same-day delivery is possible but with significant restrictions:
- Items must typically be dropped off before 8:00-10:00 AM (varies by company and location)
- Delivery usually occurs in the evening (after 5:00 PM)
- Available only for deliveries within the same city
- Often carries a premium charge (30-50% more than standard service)
Airport Baggage Services
When flying into or out of Japan, you have several options for handling luggage:
Airport to Accommodation
When arriving in Japan, you can send luggage from the airport to your accommodation. This service typically takes:
- Next day delivery for destinations in the same region as the airport
- 2 days for longer distances
Most major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu) have takkyubin counters in the arrival areas.
Accommodation to Airport
For departures, it’s recommended to send your luggage to the airport at least 2 days before your flight. This ensures your bags will be waiting for you at the airport service counter when you check in.
Airport Check-In vs. Takkyubin
Traditional airport check-in allows you to drop off luggage approximately 3 hours before departure, but you’ll need to carry your bags to the airport yourself.
Some airlines and airports in Japan also offer “in-town check-in” services where you can drop off your luggage at certain city locations (like train stations) on your departure day, though this is less common than takkyubin.
Practical Recommendations for Different Scenarios
Hotel-to-Hotel Delivery
When traveling between cities:
- Optimal timing: Send luggage 1-2 days before your arrival at the next hotel
- Confirm with your destination hotel that they can receive and store luggage before your check-in
- Pack a small overnight bag with essentials for the interim period
Ryokan Stays
For traditional Japanese inns:
- Always call ahead to confirm they accept luggage deliveries
- Send luggage 2 days in advance for remote ryokans
- Some smaller ryokans in rural areas may have limited staff to handle deliveries
Sending Luggage Home Before Departure
If returning souvenirs or excess baggage:
- International shipping can take 7-14 days for standard service
- Express international options typically take 3-5 days
- Domestic shipping to your departure airport takes 1-3 days depending on distance
Packing Recommendations, Limitations and Practical Information
Size and Weight Limitations
Takkyubin services have specific restrictions:
- Standard size limit: 160cm (sum of length + width + height)
- Weight limit: Usually 25kg per package
- Oversized options: Available for items like golf bags, skis, and bicycles at premium rates
For reference, most standard large suitcases (28-30 inch) fall within these limitations.
Items That Cannot Be Shipped
Prohibited items include:
- Valuables: Cash, jewelry, precious metals
- Perishables: Certain foods without proper packaging
- Dangerous goods: Flammable items, batteries, aerosols
- Fragile items: Without proper protection
- Living creatures: Plants and animals
Payment Methods
Most services accept:
- Cash (most common)
- Credit cards (major providers)
- IC cards (at some convenience stores)
- QR code payments like PayPay (increasingly available)
Prices typically range from ¥1,000-3,000 ($7-20 USD) for standard-sized luggage depending on distance.
Tracking Options
All major takkyubin companies provide:
- Tracking numbers on your receipt
- Online tracking through their websites (some with English support)
- Customer service hotlines (though English support varies)
Insurance Coverage
Basic insurance is typically included:
- Standard coverage: Up to ¥300,000 (approximately $2,000 USD)
- Additional insurance: Available for purchase for higher-value items
- Claims process: Requires receipt and proof of damage/loss
Seasonal Considerations
Peak Travel Periods
During Japan’s busiest travel seasons, plan for longer delivery times:
- Golden Week (late April to early May)
- Obon Festival (mid-August)
- New Year holidays (December 29 – January 3)
During these periods:
- Send luggage 3-4 days in advance rather than the usual 1-2 days
- Book services early as counters can become very busy
- Expect potential surcharges at some providers
Weather Considerations
- Typhoon season (August-October): Potential delivery delays
- Winter in northern Japan: Snow can affect delivery to remote areas
- Rainy season (June-July): Consider waterproof packaging for valuable items
Language Assistance and Communication
While language barriers can be challenging, several options make using takkyubin services easier for non-Japanese speakers:
- Many hotels offer assistance with arranging deliveries
- Major takkyubin companies have delivery forms in English
- Translation apps can help with specific instructions
- Some companies offer English-language hotlines or chat support
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your hotel’s address in Japanese to show the staff when arranging delivery to your next destination.
Cost-Saving Tips
To maximize value when using luggage delivery services:
- Consolidate items into fewer pieces when possible
- Book in advance during peak seasons
- Compare rates between different providers (Yamato vs. Sagawa)
- Check if your hotel offers discounted rates with partner companies
- Use convenience store drop-offs which sometimes have lower fees than hotel services
Conclusion
The ability to send luggage ahead in Japan transforms the travel experience, allowing you to navigate the country’s excellent public transportation system unburdened by heavy bags.
With delivery times ranging from same-day service to standard 1-3 day shipping, these services offer remarkable flexibility for travelers.
For most travelers, the sweet spot is sending luggage 1-2 days before you need it at your next destination. This timeframe balances reliability with convenience, ensuring your bags are waiting for you upon arrival while minimizing the need to pack extensive overnight essentials.
By understanding how early you can send your luggage in Japan, you can craft a more enjoyable, stress-free journey through this fascinating country.
The peace of mind that comes from knowing your belongings are safely en route to your next destination is truly one of the hidden perks of traveling in Japan.