Can i send my luggage to my airbnb japan

Learn how to forward luggage to your Airbnb in Japan: services, address format, timing, fees, host permission, airport counters and tips to ensure safe, timely delivery.
Can i send my luggage to my airbnb japan

Yes: most short-term rentals in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto accept parcel deliveries, provided you confirm with the property owner in advance. Arrange door-to-door courier delivery for your bags, or reserve a coin locker / staffed baggage service at the nearest major station if courier drop-off is not possible; always give the host the expected delivery date and the tracking number.

Local carriers to consider: Yamato Transport (Kuroneko), Sagawa and the national postal Yu-Pack. Typical size categories are 60 / 80 / 100 / 120 cm; common weight limits are up to ~25 kg per item. Typical fees range roughly ¥800–¥2,500 depending on size and distance; many intra-region transfers are next-day, and some airport→city options offer same-day if booked early. Use the carrier’s “deliver on” date field and include recipient name + arrival date to avoid missed drops.

Make these practical checks before placing a booking: 1) Ask the host if they accept third-party deliveries and whether there’s a fee or storage rule; 2) Provide the full street address, building name, room or unit number and a local phone number; 3) Choose cash-on-delivery only if the host agreed to accept payment on arrival; otherwise prepay and keep the tracking code; 4) confirm size/weight limits with the carrier and insure valuable items if needed.

Alternatives and short-term options: coin lockers at major stations (sizes small/medium/large, typically ¥300–¥800/day), airport baggage storage counters, and on-demand cloak services (app-based pick-up/drop-off). Some carriers also offer delivery-to-convenience-store pickup points or in-store lockers – check carrier rules and time windows before relying on that method.

Quick checklist: host approval, full address + unit number, arrival/delivery date, carrier name + tracking, item size/weight within carrier limits, proof of ID for pickup if required.

Delivering Bags to Your Short-Term Rental: Practical Steps

Quick recommendation: Use a domestic door-to-door courier such as Yamato (TA-Q-BIN) or Sagawa and arrange pickup or counter drop 24–48 hours before your check-in; obtain explicit host approval and supply full postal code, recipient full name (as on the reservation), mobile number and the intended arrival date.

Rates & limits: Typical fares depend on size and distance: 60 cm (small) ≈ ¥800–1,200; 80 cm (medium) ≈ ¥1,000–1,800; 100–120 cm (large) ≈ ¥2,000–3,500. Most couriers impose a ~25 kg maximum per parcel and weight/size surcharges for oversized items. Same-day or express delivery is offered in urban corridors at higher cost.

Address formatting & recipient name: Provide postal code + prefecture/city/ward + street + building and room number. Use the host’s legal name or the property manager’s name rather than the listing title; include a contact telephone and preferred delivery time window. If access requires an intercom code or concierge, add those details.

Restrictions & preparation: Carriers commonly prohibit lithium batteries (in certain configurations), flammable liquids, perishable foods and declared high-value items without insurance. Pack fragile items with cushioning, seal with tape, attach an external label in both roman letters and local script, take photos of contents, and keep the tracking number.

Failure / non-acceptance handling: Ask the host whether they accept parcels; if refused, carriers will typically hold at a local depot for pickup or return to sender. To reroute, call the carrier with tracking number; some services allow transfer to a convenience-store pickup point or depot collection.

Alternatives to door delivery: Station coin lockers (¥300–800/day), commercial short-term storage apps such as ecbo cloak (≈¥400–800/day), airport transfer counters that hold bags until departure, or arranging temporary deposit at a hotel/hostel or luggage storage facility near your arrival point.

Practical checklist: host permission; full postal code; recipient full name; phone; arrival date/time window; parcel dimensions/weight; photos and tracking; insurance for valuables.

Is delivery to a short-term rental address permitted?

Yes – domestic couriers will usually accept parcels to a short-term rental provided the host authorizes receipt and the recipient name matches the reservation; confirm dates, tracking, and any handling charges before dispatch.

  • Host permission: Obtain written approval from the property owner or manager. If the owner refuses, parcels may be returned or discarded.
  • Recipient name and reservation info: Address label should include the guest’s full name exactly as on the booking, the reservation code or check-in date, and the host’s name/telephone to avoid refusal.
  • Carrier rules and limits: Major domestic carriers (Kuroneko/Yamato, Sagawa, national postal operator) generally limit parcels to ~25 kg and 160 cm (length+width+height). Fees typically range ~¥700–¥2,500 depending on size and distance; chilled or oversized items cost extra.
  • Timing: Aim for delivery within the 3–5 day window around check-in. Deliveries left before move-in may be declined by hosts or incur storage fees.
  • Alternatives if host declines: Hold-for-pickup at the carrier office, convenience-store pickup (7‑Eleven/Lawson/FamilyMart), or station coin lockers. These options require ID and collection within a limited timeframe.
  • International shipments: Require customs declarations, may incur import duties and brokerage fees payable by the recipient; incomplete paperwork can delay or return the item.
  • Prohibited and restricted items: Weapons, illegal substances, some foodstuffs, large lithium batteries and hazardous materials are banned or heavily restricted – check the carrier’s prohibited list before sending.
  • Damage/theft risk: Hosts are often not liable for third-party courier losses. Purchase insurance for high-value items and retain tracking and proof of delivery.
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Quick checklist before arranging delivery:

  1. Confirm host agreement in writing (message or email).
  2. Label parcel with guest name, reservation code, check-in date, host contact and full rental address.
  3. Choose hold-for-pickup or convenience-store collection as fallback.
  4. Verify size/weight limits and prohibited-item lists with the carrier.
  5. Keep tracking number and inform the host of expected arrival window.

How to use takkyubin (Yamato, Sagawa, JP Post) to deliver bags to a short-term rental

Use a domestic courier (Yamato TA‑Q‑BIN, Sagawa Express, JP Post Yu‑Pack) and schedule arrival for the check‑in date; include the property phone number and booking reference on the recipient line so the manager recognizes the parcel.

Address format: write the full postal code, prefecture, city/ward, street + building and unit number on the first line; second line use “Guest: [Your Full Name] (Booking ref: XXXX) c/o [Host or Property Name]”; add a local phone number for contact. Example: “160-0022 Tokyo‑to, Shinjuku‑ku, Nishi‑Shinjuku 1‑2‑3, Building Name 101 / Guest: John Doe (Booking ref: A1B2C3) c/o Host: Tanaka 090‑1234‑5678”.

Size/weight and prices: most couriers accept parcels up to 25 kg and sizes 60–160 cm (sum of length+width+height). Typical domestic fees range roughly 700–2,500 JPY depending on size and distance; use each carrier’s online rate calculator for exact cost. Oversize or overweight items may require special rates or pallet service.

Timing and options: next‑day delivery inside major metro areas is common if dropped off before cut‑off (usually early afternoon); rural routes may take 2–3 days. Request a time slot (morning/12–14/14–16/16–18/18–20/19–21) at booking. For fragile or temperature‑sensitive items choose “fragile” or “cool” services where available.

Payment methods and COD: common payment options are card/cash at drop‑off, online prepay, or cash on delivery (Daibiki) with an extra fee; COD puts responsibility on the recipient to accept payment, so avoid COD for parcels to a rental unless the host agreed.

Drop‑off and pickup alternatives: drop off at a courier counter, convenience store, or arrange home/desk pickup. If direct delivery to the property is uncertain, route parcels to a nearby convenience store, courier depot, or station collection point and pick them up there on arrival.

Labeling and documentation: mark contents simply (e.g., “personal items – clothes”) without excessive detail; include your arrival date and expected check‑in time on the parcel note. Keep the tracking number and share it with the host and with the property’s contact.

When to confirm with the host: obtain explicit permission before arranging delivery, confirm which name the host prefers on the parcel, and verify where the courier may leave items if no one is present (locker, reception, or with neighbor). Notify the host immediately after booking the courier and again when the parcel is out for delivery.

Problems and solutions: for missed deliveries request reattempts or redirect to a convenience‑store pickup; for lost/damaged parcels file a claim with the carrier (keep receipts and tracking); for timing issues use a depot hold or change delivery date via the carrier’s customer service or website using the tracking number.

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What exact recipient name and address to write for a short-term rental reservation

Write the guest’s full legal name exactly as shown on the booking (First Last); add the reservation number and check-in date next to the name: “John Smith – Reservation #AB123456 – Check-in 2025-09-10”.

If the property owner or manager has explicitly agreed to accept parcels, append “c/o [Host Full Name]” after the guest name; otherwise omit the host name. Include a mobile phone number for the guest on the same line.

Use the property’s postal-code-first format: “〒123-4567 Prefecture City Ward Chome‑Ban‑Go Building Name Room #”. Example: “〒150-0041 Tokyo‑to Shibuya‑ku Jingumae 1‑2‑3 Grace Building 402”. Match the address exactly to the one shown in the reservation details.

For managed buildings with reception or concierge, add the desk label and hours: “c/o Building Concierge (Reception 09:00–18:00)” and place the guest name and reservation number on the same label. If the building uses a mailbox code, include it.

For deliveries routed through takkyubin operators, put the content type and pick-up instructions on a separate note inside the package, and on the outside label add arrival date and preferred delivery window: “Arrive 2025-09-10, deliver between 15:00–18:00”.

If a company or agency handles the property, use the company name followed by “for [Guest Full Name]” and include the property manager’s contact: “ABC Rentals Co. – for John Smith – Reservation #AB123456 – Manager: S. Tanaka 080‑1234‑5678”.

Obtain written permission from the host/manager before addressing anything to the property and save that confirmation (message screenshot or email). If host declines, do not attempt alternative recipient names.

For items related to property upkeep, label them clearly and attach handling instructions; for example include a maintenance note and a link to cleaning guidance such as how to clean hot tub scrubbers.

When to schedule delivery so your items arrive by check-in

Arrange delivery to arrive at the property at least 48 hours before the listed check-in time; for same-city routes 24 hours can work, for long-distance domestic transit allow 3–5 business days.

Account for carrier cut-off times (typical window: 15:00–19:00). If you choose next-day service, drop-off or pickup must usually occur before the local cut-off on the previous business day; otherwise add one extra day.

Factor weekends and national holidays into planning: most couriers reduce or suspend door deliveries on non-business days, so add 1–2 extra days around consecutive holidays and long weekends.

Choose delivery options deliberately: request “no later than” or guaranteed arrival date where available; select a release-without-signature only if the host has explicitly authorized unattended receipt. If the property has limited access hours, schedule a daytime delivery on a business day.

Coordinate timing with the host: confirm the earliest date they can accept items and whether they charge a handling/storage fee. If the host prefers collection at a nearby convenience store or depot, route the parcel there and plan to pick it up during the carrier’s posted hours.

Sample dispatch timeline relative to your trip date: metropolitan within same region – dispatch 1 day before arrival; cross-region by land/ferry – dispatch 3 days before arrival; remote locations – dispatch 5–7 days before arrival. Add 2 days if travel coincides with a holiday period.

Use tracking and delivery notifications: set email/SMS alerts and check status on the morning of arrival. If tracking shows delayed transit, contact the carrier with the reservation or tracking number and notify the host with the updated ETA.

For compact on-the-go gear consider alternatives to bulk carriage; a compact umbrella mount or a specialized backpack can reduce parcel size and simplify timing – see best universal golf umbrella holder and best disc golf backpack.

Size, weight limits and prohibited items for parcels to short-term rentals

Limit each parcel to 25 kg and 160 cm total (length + width + height) under standard door‑to‑door courier rules; oversized or heavier goods require a bulky‑item booking with the carrier and additional fees.

Standard size/weight bands and what they mean

  • Common pricing tiers: 60, 80, 100, 120, 140, 160 cm (L+W+H). Each step raises the rate; 160 cm is usually the maximum for standard parcel rates.
  • Usual maximum weight for a single parcel: 25 kg. Parcels heavier than 25 kg are routed as bulky freight or pallet items and need advance arrangement.
  • Bulky-item services: available for golf bags, skis, bicycles and large boxes – carriers accept larger dimensions and greater weights (fees and lead time apply); expect separate pickup scheduling and a higher liability limit.
  • Weight distribution: use multiple parcels rather than one overweight box to avoid refusal and excess surcharges.
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Restricted and prohibited contents – quick reference

  • Explosives and incendiaries: fireworks, gunpowder, ammunition – strictly forbidden.
  • Flammable liquids and gases: gasoline, lighter refills, paint thinners, aerosol spray cans, camping gas – not accepted in standard parcel services.
  • Corrosives and toxic substances: acids, bleach, pesticides, certain cleaners – prohibited without special documentation and packaging.
  • Lithium batteries and battery-powered mobility devices: installed batteries inside devices are sometimes allowed; spare lithium‑ion cells usually require carrier approval and capacity declaration (common airline/air cargo threshold ~160 Wh); e-bike and scooter batteries are frequently refused for door delivery.
  • Radioactive, oxidizers, compressed gas cartridges – not accepted.
  • Live animals and certain plants: restricted or prohibited for most door deliveries; separate specialty services are required.
  • Cash, negotiable instruments, passports and high‑value items: carriers often recommend against including them; if shipped, purchase declared-value cover and confirm carrier acceptance.
  • Perishables and strong‑odor foods: may be refused by hosts or returned by the courier; avoid unless you have explicit host approval and suitable packaging.
  • Illegal goods and controlled substances: will be seized and reported to authorities.

Practical steps: check the chosen carrier’s hazardous‑materials list before preparing a parcel; declare battery capacities (Wh) and whether batteries are installed or spare; split heavy loads into multiple boxes; use original packaging for electronics and batteries; purchase declared‑value coverage for anything of significant worth and obtain carrier confirmation for bulky or restricted items.

Actions for early arrival, delayed delivery, or host refusal

Redirect early parcels to a konbini pickup, carrier counter (Yamato, Sagawa, Japan Post), or a hotel front desk with written permission; request a holding period (typically up to 7 days, varies by carrier) and obtain a new delivery window. For delayed items, contact the carrier using the tracking number to request re-delivery or hold for pickup, then inform the property owner with updated ETA and tracking link. If the property owner refuses acceptance or is unreachable, arrange third‑party short‑term storage at a station locker, dedicated baggage service, or local carrier office and update arrival plans accordingly.

Specific steps by scenario

Do the following in this order: 1) check tracking; 2) call the carrier and select hold, re‑delivery, or transfer to a pickup point; 3) notify the property owner with carrier name, tracking code, and chosen pickup option; 4) if no agreement with the owner, book paid storage and confirm pick‑up details.

Scenario Immediate action Who to contact Typical holding time Estimated cost
Arrives before check‑in Redirect to konbini/ carrier counter or request a hold and new delivery date Carrier hotline or web tracking; konbini staff for pickup Usually up to 7 days (carrier policy) Redirection/hold fee 200–1,200 JPY; konbini pickup often included
Delayed beyond check‑in Request expedited re‑delivery or hold for pickup; arrange temporary storage if needed Carrier + property owner Carrier hold commonly 3–7 days; storage depends on provider Re‑delivery fee variable; short‑term storage 300–2,000 JPY/day
Property owner refuses acceptance Transfer to carrier office for customer pickup, book Ecbo/Eki locker or airport baggage service Carrier office, Ecbo Cloak, station locker operator, airport storage Carrier offices hold ~7 days; private services vary Station locker 300–1,000 JPY; Ecbo Cloak 300–800 JPY/day; airport 500–2,000 JPY/day

Practical tips and verification

Keep screenshots of tracking, messages with the property owner, and proof of booking for any storage service. When arranging pickup at a carrier office or konbini, bring government ID and the delivery slip number. For large items that exceed locker sizes, reserve a carrier office pickup or a dedicated baggage store in advance and confirm opening hours to match your arrival time.

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Michael Turner
Michael Turner

Michael Turner is a U.S.-based travel enthusiast, gear reviewer, and lifestyle blogger with a passion for exploring the world one trip at a time. Over the past 10 years, he has tested countless backpacks, briefcases, duffels, and travel accessories to find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and durability. On Gen Buy, Michael shares detailed reviews, buying guides, and practical tips to help readers choose the right gear for work, gym, or travel. His mission is simple: make every journey easier, smarter, and more enjoyable with the right bag by your side.

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