Hi everyone,
I’ve tried searching for this topic and just a little confused.
Is there a different between using Japan post or the Conbini when sending documents or letters?
the only real difference I see is the Japan Post is closed on the weekend and the Conbini are not. Maybe the pricing(?)
I guess my only main concern the delivery time for both.
Clarifications and answers are greatly appreciated.
3 comments
Sending domestically or internationally?
I usually just buy stamps at the convenience store and put the envelope in a post box.
Many convince stores are just middle hand for Japan Post, Kuroneko etc, so price and delivery time would depend on which one they/you use. But shouldn’t differ too much.
The convenience store is just an outlet for Japan Post. AFAIK they just hold the mail until the post office comes to collect it. So if you bring it to the convenience store on Saturday night, maybe it doesn’t get collected until Monday morning (if you ask they should be able to tell you). But if you went to the post office you wouldn’t be able to go until they open on Monday morning anyway so the difference is negligible.
If you’re sending international mail I would recommend going to the post office, since they know all the regulations and can make sure you’re paying the correct postage. If it’s just domestic then the convenience store is fine.
The conbini is just the “counter” reception for the mail. They should be affiliated with some kind of courier service (either Japan post itself, Sagawa, Kuroneko Yamato, etc) that does the delivery itself. If you’re concerned about delivery time, you should ask them directly. There are separate prices for faster delivery (i.e. 1 day delivery) vs standard delivery.