Living in Japan with LH

Moving Apartment

Key Procedures to Keep in Mind When Moving

 

When moving to a new apartment, there are far more procedures involved than you might expect.
Some processes also have strict deadlines, therefore careful scheduling is essential to avoid overlooking anything important.
 

In this article, we introduce key points to be aware of regarding procedures related to your everyday life when relocating.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Utilities and Communication Services

Utilities and internet services are essential for daily living and should be ready for use immediately after moving. Therefore, it's important to handle these procedures early and carefully.

 

 

 

 

Electricity, Water, and Gas

Once you moving date is set, contact your current utility providers to schedule the termination of services at your old residence and the start of services at your new apartment.

 

In most cases, procedures can be completed via phone or online. 
For electricity and water, once you apply for service activation, you can usually start using them on moving day by switching on the circuit breaker or opening the main water valve yourself.
 

However, for gas services, both shutting off and turning on the gas must be performed by a gas company technician.
Since gas activation typically requires your presence, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment well in advance to match your preferred timing. 
 

 

Internet and Mobile Phones

Once your new property is decided, first check the internet connection status with your real estate agent.
Many apartments and condominium buildings are already equipped with internet facilities.
 

If you plan to continue using your current internet provider, make sure to apply for a relocation service to transfer your connection to your new home.

 

Additionally, don’t forget to update your registered address for your mobile phone service at the same time.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Automobile-Related Procedures

If you own a car, moving also requires updating various automobile-related documents, not just your driver's license.
Make sure to complete these procedures promptly.
 

 

Driver’s License Address Change

You can update your address on your driver's license at a police station, driver's license renewal center, or driving test center. Bring your driver's license along with a document that verifies your new address.
 

If it’s difficult to visit on weekdays, some facilities are open on weekends, depending on the region, so be sure to check operating hours in advance.
 

 

Parking Certificate and Vehicle Registration Address Change

If your registered address changes, you will need to update your parking certificate (Shako Shomei車庫証明).
You must complete this within 15 days of your move at the police station that oversees your new parking location.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Other Important Procedures

In addition to the above, don't forget to update your address for insurance companies, banks, credit card companies, and other important institutions.
Here are some often-overlooked but essential procedures:
 

 

Insurance, Bank, and Credit Card Address Changes

Notify your insurance providers, banks, and credit card companies of your new address promptly.
Failure to update your address could result in missing important mail, so be vigilant.
 

 

Postal Service Change of Address (Mail Forwarding)

Be sure to submit a change-of-address notice to the post office when you move.
You can submit it at the post office counter, by mailing the form, or online.
Once registered, your mail will be forwarded from your old address to your new one free of charge for up to one year.
 

 

NHK Address Change

If you have an NHK broadcast receiving contract, you must also update your address after moving.
You can submit the address change online through NHK’s official website.

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

There are many procedures associated with moving, and each needs to be handled according to its timeline.
Creating a checklist of necessary tasks is highly recommended to stay organized.
 

Research the procedures you need to complete in advance based on your own situation and make your moving process smooth and stress-free.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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