You may sometimes find a “missed delivery notice” or “redelivery request slip” in your mailbox.
This means that a delivery driver came to deliver a package or important mail while you were away from home.
Many foreigners who are new to Japan may wonder. “What is this paper?” “How can I receive my package?”
This article explains what missed delivery notices are, how to request redelivery. Also, important things to be careful about.
What You Will Learn
- What a missed delivery notice is
- What to check on the notice
- How to request redelivery
- How Japan Post and delivery companies work
- Package storage deadlines
- Important points for foreigners living in Japan
1. What Is a Missed Delivery Notice?
Missed delivery notice is a paper left in your mailbox.
When a delivery driver cannot hand over your package because nobody was home. In Japanese, it may say:
- ご不在連絡票
- 不在連絡票
- 再配達のお知らせ
It doesn’t mean your package was canceled or thrown away.
Usually, the package is stored at a post office or delivery company office.
The packages are only stored for a limited time. It’s important to request redelivery quickly.
2. What Should You Check First?
When you find a missed delivery notice, first check the information written on it.
Even if the Japanese is difficult, try to find these important items:
- Delivery company name
- Tracking number / inquiry number
- Delivery date and time
- Package type
- Storage deadline
- Phone number, QR code, or website for redelivery
The most important information is the tracking number and storage deadline.
The tracking number is needed when requesting redelivery. If the storage deadline passes, the package may be returned to the sender.
Important:
If you ignore the missed delivery notice, you may not be able to receive your package later. Please request redelivery as soon as possible.
3. What Is Redelivery?
Redelivery means asking the delivery company to bring the package again. Many delivery companies provide this service.
You can choose a date and time when you will be home. For example, you may be able to select evenings or weekends.
However, available time slots depend on the delivery company. If you miss the same-day request deadline, the next available delivery may be the following day.
4. How to Request Redelivery
There are several ways to request redelivery. Please follow the instructions.
Main Methods
- Scanning the QR code
- Using the official website
- Calling by phone
- Using the delivery company app
- Using LINE or notification services
For foreigners who are not fluent in Japanese, using the QR code or website is usually easier.
You can use translation apps while filling out the form.
5. Information Needed for Redelivery
When requesting redelivery, you may need to enter the following information:
| Item | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tracking Number | The number written on the notice. |
| Postal Code | Your home postal code. |
| Phone Number | A Japanese phone number may be required. |
| Preferred Date | The date you want the package delivered. |
| Preferred Time Slot | The time you will be at home. |
Please enter the information carefully. Incorrect numbers may not work successful.
6. Delivery Companies
Japan has several delivery companies. Common examples include:
- Japan Post
- Yamato Transport
- Sagawa Express
- Amazon Delivery
- Other courier companies
The missed delivery notice will show which company attempted delivery.
You must request redelivery through that specific company.
7. Be Careful About Storage Deadlines
Packages are stored for only a limited period. If the storage deadline passes, the package may be returned to the sender.
This can become a problem if the package contains:
- Bank cards
- Important documents
- Residence-related paperwork
- Contracts
- School documents
Some important documents may take a long time to resend, so it is best to respond quickly.
8. What You May Need When Receiving the Package
Sometimes identity verification is required.
Items That May Be Required
- Residence card
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- Health insurance card or qualification confirmation document
- Missed delivery notice
- Signature or personal seal
Regular packages may only require a signature.
But restricted-delivery mail requires ID verification.
9. Packages Left in Delivery Boxes
Some apartments have delivery boxes (宅配ボックス).
If your package was placed there, the notice may include the box number or password.
In this case, you don’t need to request redelivery.
However, pick up the package quickly so other residents can also use the delivery boxes.
10. Missing Name Labels May Cause Delivery Problems
In Japan, packages and mail sometimes cannot be delivered if your name is not written on the mailbox or apartment door.
This is especially important for foreigners who recently moved into a new apartment.
Important:
Bank cards, contracts, and important documents may not be delivered if your name cannot be confirmed. Please check the name label on your mailbox.
11. What If You Cannot Read Japanese?
Missed delivery notices are written in Japanese. Try using a translation app.
If you still cannot understand, ask your school or friends for help.
Ignoring mail may delay important procedures.
12. Common Problems
You Threw Away the Notice
Without the tracking number, redelivery may be difficult.
Contact the delivery company and ask whether they can search using your name and address.
The Storage Deadline Passed
The package may already have been returned to the sender.
Please contact the sender, such as the online shop, bank, school, or management company.
You Missed the Redelivery Again
Another missed delivery notice may be left. Please select a time when you are definitely home.
You Do Not Have a Japanese Phone Number
Some companies allow online redelivery requests without a phone number.
But, many services still require a Japanese number. So obtaining one early is recommended.
13. Important Advice for Foreign Residents
Some foreigners accidentally ignore missed delivery notices because they cannot read Japanese.
However, these notices are very important.
Important deliveries may include:
- Cash cards
- Credit cards
- Contracts
- School documents
- Government documents
- Mail from management companies
- Residence-related paperwork
Make it a habit to check your mailbox every day. If you find a letter you do not understand, taking a photo and asking for help is a good idea.
Conclusion: Request Redelivery Quickly
If you find a missed delivery notice in your mailbox, it means package or document could not be delivered.
The notice contains important information such as the tracking number, storage deadline, and contact methods for redelivery. Please do not ignore it.
Receiving mail and packages properly is an important part of life in Japan.
Especially for bank documents, government papers, school documents, and apartment-related mail, quick action is important.
Check your mailbox regularly!
If you find the notice, request redelivery asap.
Need Help With Life in Japan?
willow supports foreigners living in Japan with apartment searches, move-in support, utility setup, and daily life guidance.
If you have questions about missed delivery notices, redelivery, bank documents, utility bills, or life in Japan, feel free to contact us anytime.
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