Housing/Real Estate

Moving In

Master the Japanese you need for Moving In in natural keigo. Scene-by-scene flow · NG examples · politeness levels · 9-language parallel translations

Synergia Editorial Team

This page helps foreign residents and long-term visitors handle "Moving In" with daily Japanese phrases for living in Japan, practical examples, and common mistakes to avoid.

What this page helps you say in Japan

This page focuses on Moving In and teaches useful Japanese phrases for daily life in Japan, including natural replies, polite alternatives, and practical wording for foreigners living in Japan.

What You'll Learn on This Page

Practice Phrases (10 Total)

引越しは午前中にお願いできますか

ひっこしはごぜんちゅうにおねがいできますか

Can we schedule the move for the morning?

POINTPlease specify your time early, especially during busy periods.

荷物の数はダンボール20個とベッドです

にもつのかずはダンボールにじゅうこととベッドです

I have 20 boxes and a bed.

POINTAccurate numbers improve estimation accuracy

エレベーターは使用できますか

エレベーターはしようできますか

Can we use the elevator?

POINTPossibility of additional charges for stair work

養生はお願いできますか

ようじょうはおねがいできますか

Could you cover the walls and floor for protection?

POINTCuring = wall and floor protection, saving costs for restoring to original condition

鍵は全部で2本受け取りました

かぎはぜんぶでにほんうけとりました

I received 2 keys in total.

POINTIt is important to check the number and keep records.

電気・ガス・水道の開始手続きは済んでいますか

でんき・ガス・すいどうのかいしてつづきはすんでいますか

Are the utilities already activated?

POINTContact is required before moving in, only gas needs to be attended.

ガスの開栓は立ち会いが必要と伺いました

ガスのかいせんはたちあいがひつようとうかがいました

I heard gas activation requires attendance.

POINTGas requires face-to-face confirmation by law.

お隣へのご挨拶はどうすればよいでしょうか

おとなりへのごあいさつはどうすればよいでしょうか

How should I greet the neighbors?

POINTYou can consult the management company regarding greeting customs.

引っ越してきた〇〇です。よろしくお願いいたします

ひっこしてきた〇〇です。よろしくおねがいいたします

I just moved in. I'm 〇〇. Nice to meet you.

POINTA standard phrase for greetings: go to the rooms above, below, left, or right.

壁に小さなキズがありますが既存のものでしょうか

かべにちいさなキズがありますがきそんのものでしょうか

There's a small scratch. Was it pre-existing?

POINTThe golden rule is to record and take photos of existing wear and tear when moving in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the moving company's rates?
A. The average cost is 30,000 to 80,000 yen for a single person, and 80,000 to 200,000 yen for a family. The price is 1.5 to 2 times cheaper during the peak season (March-April), and cheaper during the off-season (June/November).
Q. Do you need a greeting gift?
A. Depending on the area and property, many people bring snacks, towels, and detergent that cost around 500 to 1,000 yen. Recently, an increasing number of properties are omitting the greeting itself.
Q. How many minutes does it take to turn on the gas?
A. It usually takes about 30 minutes. We will check the ignition of the water heater, stove, and gas alarm together with the person in charge.
Q. What are the tips for avoiding restoration to the original state when moving out?
A. If you send an email to the management company with photos of existing scratches and dirt when you moved in, this will serve as proof when you move out. Date and time stamps are important.
Q. Until when will my resident card be transferred?
A. You must complete the necessary procedures at the municipal office of your new address within 14 days of moving in. If you are late, you may be subject to a fine of up to 50,000 yen.