Sodai Gomi Collection and Garbage Disposal

Sometimes selling items in Japan is too much of a hassle. Maybe postage will cost too much or perhaps the item is not in a condition fit for sale. With Japan’s strict routines concerning garbage disposal, it sometimes feels like walking into a minefield of wrong decisions when faced with throwing out larger items. Along with sodai gomi (粗大ごみ), there are a few useful options though, so read on if you do not wish to sell.

Table of Contents

1. Sodai Gomi Collection
2. Recycling Companies
3. Out with the old, in with the new

Sodai Gomi Collection

If you have some very large items that no one wants to buy (or you do not want to sell) then using the city’s sodai gomi (粗大ごみ oversized garbage) disposal service might be for you. It requires using a little Japanese and spending money, but overall it’s a convenient way to get rid of things such as old furniture. The collection is done by reservation, so telephone ahead of time to let city hall know your plan. Moreover, every city is different, so check your city’s website for up-to-date costs and requirements. Here is a basic 3-step guide for using the Sodai Gomi service.

Buy “Sodai Gomi” stickers

These are kept behind the counter, so all you need to do is ask the cashier for as many as you need. The cashier will then stamp the stickers. This helps city hall know that they have recently been bought. It is not uncommon for some convenience stores to run out of stickers (and in rare cases not stock them at all!) so you might have to visit more than one shop. Just make sure you visit a shop that is in your city, or the sticker might be different and the collectors will not take your garbage!

Telephone the “Sodai Gomi” number

This is where you will need to use some Japanese. There are three things to discuss on this call. They will ask you what the item is, so they know what the collectors have to look out for. They will ask where you live and where your nearby garbage disposal area is. This is so the item can be left in a safe and convenient place. Finally, they will arrange a pickup date with you. Expect this to be anywhere from a few days to one week away.

Put your garbage out

Make sure you have attached the “Sodai Gomi” stickers to your garbage as appropriate. Someone from the city will be around to collect it later. Feel free to get on with your day!

Some items cannot be thrown out with Sodai Gomi. In this case, you’ll need to try somewhere else. Let’s take a look at some alternatives.

Recycling Companies

Common items for recycling include some white goods, chemicals, and electronics. If in doubt, check with your city hall. There are recycling services for these larger products, but it would be worthwhile to try out a second-hand shop or Facebook group first, to get some more money in your pocket. These services are only recommended if the products really are junk.

This system is much the same as the Sodai Gomi service. First, check your city’s website for the type of item you want to throw away. The site should have a guide of what the item is, and which company you can call to assist with disposal. They will also have information about the cost. After that, you can contact the company and arrange a collection date.

If you’re looking to replace an item rather than just dispose of it, it might be worth looking at this last option.

Out with the old, in with the new

Let’s say you are throwing out an old washing machine to buy a new one. The first idea that might come to mind is to buy the new machine and dispose of the old one later. In this case, it does pay to shop around. There are a number of reputable companies that will sell you a new machine with delivery and take the old machine away as part of the service. This saves you a lot of hassle and money involved with getting rid of your older model. This system works for all sorts of kitchen appliances and even furniture.

So there we are. There are a number of ways to sell and dispose of anything taking up space where you live. The most important thing is assessing your situation first. Are you planning to leave Japan quickly? Do you need new items in your home? Do you want to have a clear-out and make a bit of money on the side? Once you know this, you can pick the options that make you feel most comfortable. Good luck!

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Features image by Alfonso Navarro on Unsplash