Step-by-Step Guide to Sending Packages at Konbini (Convenience Stores) in Japan

What is a Konbini? 

Konbini refers to convenience stores in Japan. They are small-sized stores that operate 24/7 and offer a wide range of services including shopping for essentials, ready-to-eat meals, and bill payments. One of their convenient services is parcel delivery, which is available round the clock, making it ideal for busy individuals who cannot visit the post office during regular hours.

Why are you able to send items at Konbini?

Many Konbini stores are affiliated with delivery companies like Yamato Transport, Japan Post, which facilitate parcel deliveries. This makes sending packages straightforward and accessible. Please note that Sagawa Express is not affiliated with convenience stores.

So it is necessary to check if the store you are at offers delivery services from these companies.

Photo by: Japantravel

Konbini that uses the services of Yamato Transport.

Yamato Transport is associated with the following Konbini to provide delivery services. Some convenience stores also support the "Raku Raku Mercari Bin" service (a delivery service for sellers on Mercari, a popular online marketplace  in Japan).

1. Seven-Eleven

Seven-Eleven stores nationwide in Japan offer:

• Takkyubin (Delivery service)
• Takkyubin Compact (Small-sized delivery service)
• Kuko Takkyubin (Airport delivery service)
• Raku Raku Mercari Bin (Service for sellers on Mercari)

Seven-Eleven and Yamato do not provide transportation services:

• Cool Takkyubin 
• Sometimes, these stores will not accept packages exceeding size 180 and weighing over 30kg.
• Takkyubin Compact Chakubarai (Small size post-pay delivery)

2. FamilyMart

FamilyMart provides similar services to Seven-Eleven. However, the size limit for packages must not exceed size 160. Please take note.

3. Daily Yamazaki:

The services that Daily Yamazaki is currently providing include:

• Takkyubin (Express delivery)
• Takkyubin Compact (Small-sized express delivery)
• Kuko Takkyubin (Airport delivery)

However, they do not support the Raku Raku Mercari Bin service.

Konbini stores that use Japan Post's services

The konbini stores that use Japan Post are Lawson and Ministop. Furthermore, Japan Post also provides services such as Smart Letter and Letter Pack Plus. However, these services are only supported at stores where mailboxes are available.

1. Lawson

At Lawson, you can send packages using Yu-Pack (ゆうパック). The total dimensions must not exceed 170cm and the weight must not exceed 25kg. This convenience store also provides:

• Takkyubin (Delivery service)
• Takkyubin Compact (Small size delivery service)
• Kuko Takkyubin (Delivery service to the airport)
• Raku Raku Mercari Bin (Service for sellers on Mercari)

And it is not possible to send cold/frozen items and electronics here.  Also, only domestic delivery is available.

2. Ministop

Offers services similar to Lawson.

• Unsupported services: Refrigerated  Yu-Pack, Frozen Yu-Pack 
• Payment options: Both prepayment and post-payment are available.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sending Packages at Konbini:

Below are simple steps to guide you to send items at Konbini. However, GoEMON will add a few more steps to help you send items smoothly.

Step 1: Prepare your package at home

Because the convenience store does not prepare packaging or pre-packaged boxes for you, please pack your items at home before bringing them to the Konbini.

When packaging, use materials such as foam or newspaper to prevent damage to your package. Also, be mindful of choosing a box that fits your items to reduce shipping costs.

Note: Ensure your package meets the size and weight requirements of the delivery service.

Step 2:  Waybill Preparation

At the store, request a waybill (shipping label). There are two types:

• 元払い (Motobarai ) - sender pays - labeled in purple/pink
• 着払い (Chakubarai ) - recipient pays - labeled in orange/red

Note: If you do not specify any type of ticket for the staff, the staff will default to giving you a prepayment ticket (motobarai).

Shipping slip 元払い (motobarai) - Sender pays the fee.

Shipping slip 元払い (motobarai) - recipient pays the fee.

Step 3: Fill out the waybill

• Recipient information 「お届け先（おとどけさき）」: Postal code, address, phone number of the recipient.
• Sender information「ご依頼主」ごいらいぬし: Postal code, address, contact phone number of the sender.
• Information about the item, goods to be sent (「品名」ひんめい): Specify the type of item you are sending, usually divided into categories such as clothing, shoes, books, cosmetics, etc.

Note: Please carefully fill in your address and phone number. In addition, you can also fill in the desired delivery date and time if you want your package to be delivered smoothly.

Currently, Yamato Transport also provides online forms on mobile phones. You just need to scan the displayed QR code and fill in the information right at home.

Step 4: Payment

Take your package to the cashier for payment. Confirm the size and weight with the staff if you're paying upfront (motobarai). Fees vary based on the service and additional options chosen.

Note: To avoid any loss, it is best to ask the staff to write a note of warning to be stuck on the order.

Step 5: Keep your receipt

After payment, make sure to keep  your shipping invoice with the tracking number for reference until delivery is finished. It serves as proof in case of issues like loss or damage.

Items Not Supported

Restricted Items: Some items cannot be sent via Konbini services due to logistical constraints:

• Goods that require refrigeration or freezing (クール便)
• Computers and electronic devices (精密機器)
• Oversized or overweight goods

Sending packages at Konbini in Japan is popular for its convenience and accessibility, especially with stores operating 24/7. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure your packages are sent efficiently and securely through your preferred convenience store chain.

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