Internet Setup When Moving: Transfer, Cancel, or Switch?

How to handle your internet connection when moving — transfer vs. new contract, scheduling installation, and staying online during the gap.

Start Early — Internet Setup Takes Time

Internet setup should begin at least 1 month before moving. Installation work often requires scheduling, and during busy seasons, wait times of 2–3 weeks are common. Delays mean longer periods without internet at your new home.

Three Options

1. Transfer Your Current Service

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Ask your current provider to "transfer" your service to your new address.

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Pros: Keep your email address; simpler process.

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Cons: Transfer fees apply (¥several thousand to ¥20,000). Not possible if your new area isn't covered.

2. Cancel and Sign Up with a New Provider

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Cancel your old service and start fresh with a different provider.

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Pros: New customer cashback deals and discounts may apply. Monthly fees might be lower.

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Cons: Early termination fees if you're still in contract. Email address will change.

3. Switch to Mobile Wi-Fi or Home Router

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Skip fiber optics entirely and use a portable Wi-Fi or plug-in home router.

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Pros: No installation work needed — use it immediately. No hassle when moving again.

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Cons: Slower speeds than fiber. May have data caps.

Step-by-Step: Transfer

1. Contact your provider to request a transfer (1 month before).

2. Schedule installation at your new address.

3. Schedule equipment removal at your old address (if required).

4. After installation, connect your router and you're online.

Step-by-Step: Cancel + New Contract

1. Contact your current provider to cancel.

2. Sign up with your new provider.

3. Old address: equipment removal (if required).

4. New address: installation work.

5. Set up your router and connect.

Watch Out When Cancelling

Early Termination Fees

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Most fiber contracts have 2–3 year terms. Cancelling mid-contract incurs ¥1,000–10,000 in fees.

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Check when your renewal window is (fee-free cancellation period).

Equipment Removal

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Some rental properties require you to remove the fiber line when you leave.

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Confirm with your property management.

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Removal costs range from free to ~¥10,000.

Return Rental Equipment

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Routers and ONUs (fiber terminals) may be rental items that must be returned.

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Failure to return them may result in equipment charges.

Staying Online During the Gap

If there's a gap between your move and installation:

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Rent a pocket Wi-Fi: Available from a few hundred yen per day.

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Smartphone tethering: Works if you have enough mobile data.

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Free Wi-Fi: Cafés and convenience stores offer temporary connectivity.

Tips by Property Type

Apartment (Fiber Already Installed)

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If the building already has fiber to the common area, setup is quick and easy.

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Available providers may be limited — check before signing your lease.

Apartment (No Fiber)

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Bringing fiber in requires building management approval.

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If denied, consider a mobile Wi-Fi or home router instead.

House

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Requires running a line from the utility pole to your home.

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Installation costs ¥20,000–40,000 (sometimes free with promotions).

Suggested Timeline

When	What to Do
6 weeks before	Decide: transfer or cancel + new contract
1 month before	Apply with provider, schedule installation
2 weeks before	Prepare equipment returns
Moving day onward	Installation, router setup