Did you know? In Japan, there are several ways to send packages and many convenient methods have been invented in recent years.

This article will introduce you to ways of sending packages in Japan and parcel locker services. Let’s know it and make your life in Japan richer!

How to send packages in Japan?

・Request a Pick Up

If you want to send a large or heavy package, request a pickup service. Your sales driver will come to your home to pick up your package. Pickups can be requested by phone and via the web.

・Take it to the Post Office

It is the most common way and you just have to bring the baggage to the post office. Also, most of the packing materials you need are available at the post office.

・Send from Convenience Store

The easiest way to send packages is through a convenience store. Packing materials and delivery slips are also available at convenience stores, and packages can be shipped simply by presenting them at the cash register.

What is Delivery Locker?

Recently another new delivery service, the delivery locker, was invented. Delivery lockers benefit not only the user, but also the delivery service provider, reducing the burden on them. Let’s see how a delivery locker benefits us.

・Convenience Store

Delivery lockers help convenience stores by automating the process of accepting parcel deliveries. Convenience stores are one of the most understaffed industries in Japan. Increasing the number of services that can be handled unattended will help reduce labor shortages and increase accessibility of convenience stores.

・Delivery Company

Delivery lockers allow transactions and logistics to be handled entirely at the convenience store. This reduces the work process, as couriers no longer need to do anything other than receive and dispatch packages from the lockers.

・Senders

People who are looking to send large parcels can also benefit from this process. When lines are long at the counter, particularly during rush hour, you don’t have to line up, saving time for both you and the convenience store.

As you see,delivery lockers save time and effort for both the vendor and the user.

How to Use the Locker?

If you are on the lookout for these lockers, they are usually in the back of the convenience store. Most convenience stores have lockers named “PUDO”.

For people who are familiar with Amazon Locker, then they are usually side by side. To tell them apart, Amazon lockers have the all too familiar blue color while these lockers for sending out packages are beige or off-white.

Using the delivery locker is very easy. It can be done even if you are not confident in your Japanese!

1. Scan the QR Code

2. A tracking number will print out. Place this on your package.

3. Place your package in the locker.

And it’s done! Also, lockers are available in English and there is no need to speak to a person. It can be the easiest way for foreigners to send packages in Japan.

How was the Delivery Locker Created?

These lockers originally started as an experiment in late 2023. The original plan was to have them placed in 650 convenience stores throughout Tokyo until December of the same year. However, because of its convenience, you can still see these lockers throughout many locations.

Besides reducing the burden on store clerks, there is no need for additional store space or real estate to place packages. The efficiency of the shipping company is also improved since the entire process takes place in the store.

“There has been an issue with the increasing workload on the cash register operations. We believe that it might help alleviate the staff shortage at each store.” - Yamanaka of Family

Let’s send Package from Locker!

Labor shortages have been a longstanding problem in Japan, especially in the transportation industry. Delivery lockers are convenient for both carriers and customers, and are an innovative invention that could solve this problem.

Therefore, the use of delivery lockers is essential to maintain excellent Japanese transportation services.

So what do you think? As a customer, do you feel this helps you in the process? What about if you are working on the convenience store side or delivery side? Let’s be proactive and use the delivery locker!