Know the Rules for Your Move in Japan
A General Freight Motor Truck Transport Business license from MLIT for movers that operate their own trucks, and a government-established standard moving contract.
Before you rely on this
Japan licenses commercial goods transport through the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), requiring a license (not merely registration) for General Freight Motor Truck Transport Business (一般貨物自動車運送事業), the category applicable to movers that carry customers’ goods in their own trucks. Licensed vehicles carry green plates, and moving services performed with them are governed by Japan’s Standard Moving Transport Terms and Conditions. Where a mover subcontracts the trucking, the carrier performing it holds the license. Always confirm current requirements directly before hiring a mover.
What kind of question is it?
A General Freight Motor Truck Transport Business license from MLIT for movers that operate their own trucks, requiring a minimum 5-vehicle fleet, designated managers, and substantial capital.
Japan →The government-established Standard Moving Transport Terms and Conditions, and the Japan Trucking Association’s voluntary Hikkoshi Anshin Mark program, which runs a complaint line for certified movers.
Covered within the Japan pageThe National Consumer Affairs Center and local Consumer Life Centers, plus a JTA complaint line for Hikkoshi Anshin Mark-certified movers.
Covered within the Japan pageA mover that itself arranges door-to-door international export service needs a Type 2 Freight Forwarding Business license, a higher bar than port-to-port Type 1 registration.
International: Japan →Select a page
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only. Regulations may change. Always confirm current requirements directly with MLIT before hiring a mover.
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