Your first move is a major event filled with both excitement and uncertainty. While the thrill of starting a new life awaits, many people find themselves overwhelmed, unsure of where to begin with the countless tasks ahead.

In reality, moving involves a wide range of preparations, from searching for a property and packing to handling administrative procedures and arranging a moving company. Especially for first-time movers, failing to plan ahead can lead to issues such as missed deadlines or exceeding the budget.　

This guide provides a clear overview of the entire moving process and key points for each step. By taking the time to prepare and plan ahead, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new life.

Additionally, we’ll introduce how you can switch your rent payments to a credit card using convenient services like RentEase. From preparing for your move to settling into your new home, follow this guide to stay organized and ensure a smooth transition.

1. Preparation Before Moving

To ensure a successful move, early planning and preparation are essential. In this section, we will introduce key points to consider when choosing your new home and scheduling your moving date.

Key Points for Choosing Your New Home
The first step is selecting your new residence. Listing your desired conditions and prioritizing them will help you make a well-informed decision. Consider the following factors when choosing a place.

• Location: Consider accessibility to your workplace or school, as well as the convenience of the surrounding environment.
• Rent: Aim to keep your rent within 30% of your income to maintain financial stability.
• Layout: Choose a suitable layout based on your living situation, such as 1K or 1LDK for singles and 2LDK or more for families.
• Building Age: If you prefer a newly built or recently renovated property, factor in the potential higher rental costs.

When looking for a property, you can use online real estate listing websites or consult directly with local real estate agencies. Comparing multiple properties will help you find the best option that suits your needs.　Once you find a property that interests you, schedule a viewing. Visiting the property in person allows you to check aspects that may not be fully conveyed through photos or descriptions, such as the overall atmosphere, natural lighting, and actual condition of the facilities.

Deciding Your Moving Schedule
When selecting your move-in and moving dates, it's important to plan ahead and allow for flexibility. Consider the following factors to ensure a smooth transition.

• Move-in Date: Confirm when rent payments for your new home will begin. Adjust your move-out and move-in dates to avoid overlapping rent payments.
• Moving Date: Schedule your move based on the availability of movers and your personal schedule.
• Avoid Peak Season: Moving costs tend to be higher between February and April due to high demand. If possible, choosing an off-peak period can help reduce expenses.

By planning early, you can secure moving services at reasonable rates and complete the necessary procedures without stress.

2. Choosing a Moving Company & Getting a Quote

Criteria for Selecting a Moving Company
There are various moving companies, ranging from nationwide brands to local movers. Choose the best one based on your situation and the volume of your belongings.

• Nationwide Moving Companies: They are well known for high reliability with well-established services also offer additional services such as packing materials and insurance. However, it can be more expensive compared to local options.
• Local Movers: More affordable pricing. They may offer personalized support and better availability.

How to Get a Quote
Getting estimates from multiple moving companies makes it easier to understand fair pricing. Using a bulk quote comparison website is an efficient way to compare options. Moving on weekdays or during off-peak hours (afternoons) can sometimes result in discounts.

Confirm if there are any additional fees during the quote process. Some companies may charge extra for large furniture or special items so it's better to notify special requirements in advance to avoid unexpected charges later.

3. Packing and Decluttering

Packing is one of the most time-consuming tasks when preparing for a move. It is also a great opportunity to get rid of unnecessary items. Here are some tips to make the process more efficient.

Packing Tips

1. Start Early
   Ideally, start packing at least two weeks before moving day. Begin with items you rarely use and gradually pack more as the moving date approaches.
2. Sort and Label Boxes
   Clearly label (such as kitchenware or living room stuff) each box with its contents and the designated room in your new home. This will make unpacking much easier and more organized.
3. Pack Daily Essentials Last
   Items you use daily—such as dishes, clothes, and chargers—should be packed last, preferably on the day before or the day of the move.

Decluttering Unnecessary Items
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Here are some effective ways to dispose of them.

• Municipal Waste Collection Services: Request pickup for bulky waste or recyclable items according to your local government's regulations.
• Recycle Shops: Sell items that are still in good condition to second-hand stores and use the extra money to cover moving expenses.
• Junk Removal Services: If you're short on time, hiring a professional disposal service can be a convenient solution.

Reducing the number of items you move can also help lower moving costs by decreasing the required transport space and labor.

4. Moving Day Tips

Moving day can be busy and hectic, so proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Here are some essential preparations and tips to keep in mind.

Final Preparations Before Moving Day

• Preparing Home Appliances for Transport
  The refrigerator and washing machine require special preparation before moving. The refrigerator needs to be defrosted, and the washing machine must be drained of all water. Unplug the cords and secure them by taping them to the machine. Empty the refrigerator at least one day before the moving date, and drain all water from the washing machine hoses.
  
• Packing Essential Items
  Prepare a "Daily Essentials Kit" with items you'll need on moving day and immediately after arriving at your new home. This will help you settle in smoothly without searching through boxes. Here are some useful items to include:
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.), towels
  • Smartphone charger
  • Tissues, toilet paper
  • Work gloves, box cutter, cleaning supplies

On the Moving Day

1. Loading Process
   When the moving company or helpers arrive, confirm the plan to ensure an efficient loading process. Labeling boxes with their designated rooms will help the movers work smoothly.
2. Cleaning After Moving Out
   Before leaving, clean the entire space to restore it to its original condition. Pay extra attention to the kitchen, bathroom, and toilet, as a thorough cleaning of these areas will leave a good impression.
3. Unloading at the New Residence
   Upon arrival at your new home, begin unloading your belongings. Use the labels on the boxes to guide movers in placing them in the appropriate rooms. After unloading, check the truck to ensure nothing has been left behind.

5. Post-Move Procedures and Preparations

Even after moving into your new home, various procedures are necessary to settle in smoothly. Check the following tasks to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Utility Setup

• Electricity, Water, and Gas
  Before moving, complete the disconnection procedures for your previous residence and arrange for activation at your new home. Gas services often require an on-site visit from a technician for activation, so schedule an appointment in advance.
• Internet
  Contact your internet service provider or network carrier to arrange for service transfer. If installation work is needed, it may take time, so coordinate this before your move.

Address Change Procedures
In addition to submitting a moving-in notification at the city office, don't forget to update your address for the following documents and services:

• Driver’s license
• My Number Card
• Mail forwarding service
• Bank and credit card registered address

Greeting Your New Neighbors
In Japan, it is common to greet your neighbors after moving in. Preparing a small gift worth 500 to 1,000 yen and introducing yourself can help build good relationships in your new community.

6. Enjoy a Smooth Post-Move Experience with

After moving into your new home, RentEase is a great way to simplify rent payments. Even if your property only accepts cash payments, RentEase allows you to pay rent using a credit card.

Benefits of Using RentEase

• Earn Reward Points with Credit Card Payments
  Simply paying your rent each month helps you accumulate points, allowing you to enjoy additional savings. The higher your rent, the more points you can earn.
• Flexible Payment Timing
  By utilizing your credit card's billing cycle, you can manage your finances more efficiently and adjust your payment timing to suit your needs.

How to Use RentEase
Simply create an account on the official RentEase website, register your rent payment details, and seamlessly switch to credit card payments.

Conclusion

Moving for the first time can feel overwhelming, but careful planning can help make the process stress-free. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition to your new home.

Additionally, moving is the perfect opportunity to reconsider how you pay rent. With RentEase, you can switch to credit card payments, earn points effortlessly, and enjoy a more convenient and cost-effective lifestyle.

Make the most of your new beginning by utilizing these valuable insights for a comfortable and rewarding start in your new environment!