In Japan and buying something online to be delivered? You may be surprised, Cash on Delivery is an option. When I was SUPER little I remember the option but it’s unheard of nowadays in the States (except for pizza delivery, but even then it’s easier to use a credit card online). Here in Japan? Apparently alive and well.
Why would I need Cash On Delivery?
Once in a blue moon, foreign credit cards are a no-go in Japan (not on big names like Amazon, but it does happen). However, there are other incidents. Imagine if you lost your card. Or you are my friend, who somehow had their credit card number swiped from using a toll booth, of all things. Your new card hasn’t arrived yet. You just MUST have this one thing delivered right away (for me, it was a bunch of Japanese textbooks).
Cash on Delivery: Japanese Lesson
You’ll want to look for 代金引換 (だいきん ひきかえ,
In Japan, cash truly still is king (21st century, anyone? anyone?!).
On Delivery
When the delivery comes (and of course, you’ll need to be home for it), make sure you have exact change. The delivery person most likely has some change with them but it’s best not to be a nuisance. One time I forgot how quickly the deliveries can be and didn’t have exact change when they showed up and I felt bad for having to have them deal with the hassle. After that, I made sure to make it easier.
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The Magic of Black Cat
Side note: Right away isn’t an exaggeration, you can practically get things delivered the same day! Need a new travel backpack because something happened to yours? I had my new bag the next day (and a Sunday of all days!).
Black Cat or 黒猫 (くろねこ, kuro neko), is the UPS or FedEx of Japan. However, it’s 1000 times better. Miss your delivery? Call them up and they’ll give you plenty of options for bringing it back — including up to 8 pm! Depending when you see the notice, it can be the same day for a reschedule too.
Japan Post is amazing as well
Not only is JP (as it’s commonly referred) a spot where you can pay your bills or even forward products for pick up as another option (you can also do both at convenience stores), they are amazing shipping machines as well.
On my trip from Akita, I bought a fair amount of local craft beer. Not wanting to carry it on my trip, conveniently the store had a JP outfit inside. They not only boxed my purchase for me, it was to my friends place AND REFRIDGERATED, in less than a day for 1400 円.
Would you use the Cash On Deliver Option?
Admittedly, COD is somewhat of a novelty thing. It’s the same reason you choose the wacky flavored ice cream. Why not try it?
Would you use the COD option? Tell me why in the comments!
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