Guide
Mail & Packages in Japan: Postal Guide for Foreigners
Last updated: March 2026
Japan's postal and delivery system is remarkably efficient — same-day delivery, precise time slots, and a redelivery system that actually works. But it can be confusing for foreigners, especially when delivery slips are entirely in Japanese and your name isn't on your mailbox.
Setting Up Your Mailbox
Put your name on your mailbox — in romaji
This is the #1 cause of missed deliveries for foreigners. If your name isn't visible on your mailbox or doorbell plate, delivery drivers may return your packages as undeliverable. Write your family name in romaji (alphabet) and attach it to your mailbox.
- Most apartment mailboxes have a name slot — slide in a card with your name
- If you share with a Japanese partner, add both names
- Include your room number if it's not clearly marked
- Some buildings have a doorbell plate (表札 / hyousatsu) — update this too
Receiving Packages
Japan has three major delivery companies, plus Japan Post:
| Service | Known For | Redelivery |
|---|---|---|
| Yamato (クロネコヤマト) | Amazon, most online shops. Black cat logo. | LINE, web, phone, QR on slip |
| Sagawa (佐川急便) | Business deliveries, large items | Web, phone |
| Japan Post (日本郵便) | Government mail, international packages | Web, phone, LINE |
| Amazon Delivery | Amazon's own fleet (置き配 / delivery without signature) | Amazon app |
Missed Delivery (不在連絡票)
If you're not home, the driver leaves a redelivery slip (不在連絡票 / fuzai renraku-hyō) in your mailbox. This small paper slip contains everything you need to reschedule.
Find the tracking number on the slip
It's the longest number, usually starting with a specific prefix per carrier.
Reschedule via QR code, website, or phone
Most slips have a QR code. Scan it to go directly to the redelivery page. Yamato and Japan Post have English interfaces.
Choose a time slot
Available slots are usually: 8-12, 12-14, 14-16, 16-18, 18-20, 19-21. Pick a time you'll be home.
Pro tip: Register with delivery apps
Yamato: Register for "Kuroneko Members" (クロネコメンバーズ) — free. Get delivery notifications via LINE, reschedule before the first attempt, and use locker pickup.
Japan Post: Register at "MyPost" for delivery notifications and redelivery via LINE.
Delivery Without Being Home
Don't want to wait for deliveries? Japan has several contactless options:
置き配 (Okihai) — Leave at Door
Amazon default for many deliveries. Package is left at your door, in your meter box, or in a delivery box. Photo confirmation sent to app. Works well in apartments with secure entry.
Delivery Lockers (宅配ボックス)
Many newer apartments have locker systems in the entrance. The driver places your package in a locker and puts a notification in your mailbox with the code. Check if your building has these.
Convenience Store Pickup
Many online shops (including Amazon) let you ship to a nearby convenience store. Pick up at your convenience with a barcode from the app. Available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson.
PUDOStation Lockers
Public delivery lockers at train stations and shopping centers. Yamato and some other carriers support delivery to PUDO lockers. Free to use.
Sending Mail & Packages
Domestic
| Type | Cost | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Standard letter | ¥84-94 | 1-3 days |
| Postcard (はがき) | ¥63 | 1-3 days |
| Yu-Pack (ゆうパック) | ¥810-2,340+ | 1-2 days (next day in most areas) |
| Letter Pack (レターパック) | ¥370 (Light) / ¥520 (Plus) | 1-2 days. Flat-rate envelope. Tracking included. |
| Click Post | ¥185 | 1-3 days. Online payment, print label at home. Up to 1kg. |
International
| Service | Speed | Cost (500g to US) |
|---|---|---|
| EMS (国際スピード郵便) | 2-4 days | ~¥2,000 |
| Air Mail | 3-7 days | ~¥1,500 |
| SAL (エコノミー航空) | 2-3 weeks | ~¥1,200 |
| Surface Mail (船便) | 1-3 months | ~¥700 |
Customs forms required for international packages
All international packages need a customs declaration form (CN22 or CN23). Fill it out at the post office or online. Be accurate about contents and value — false declarations can result in seizure.
Mail Forwarding When You Move
When you move within Japan, file a mail forwarding request (転居届 / tenkyo todoke) with Japan Post. Your mail will be automatically forwarded to your new address for 1 year, free of charge.
- At a post office: Fill out the form at any post office. Bring your Residence Card.
- Online: Submit at e-tenkyo.post.japanpost.jp — requires identity verification via smartphone.
- Forwarding starts about 3-7 business days after filing.
- Only Japan Post mail is forwarded — private courier packages (Yamato, Sagawa) are not included.
Update your address everywhere
Mail forwarding is a safety net, not a solution. Update your address with your bank, employer, phone carrier, credit card company, insurance, and any subscriptions. Most can be done online or by phone.
Receiving International Packages
- Packages from abroad go through Japanese customs. Most arrive within 1-2 weeks (air) or 1-3 months (surface).
- Customs duty: Items valued over ¥10,000 (personal use) or ¥200,000 (commercial) may incur import duty and consumption tax (10%). You'll receive a slip to pay at a post office or convenience store.
- Prohibited items: Certain foods, plants, medications, and animal products are restricted. Check Japan Customs before shipping.
- Write your address in Japanese on the package for faster delivery. Include your name in romaji as well.
Disclaimer: Postal rates and services change periodically. Check Japan Post's official website for current rates. International shipping restrictions vary by destination country.
Related Guides
Ward Office Registration →
Register your address — required to receive official mail and My Number notification.
Canceling Contracts When Leaving →
Set up mail forwarding and close accounts before departure.
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