Which Is Safer – Picking Up Your Lost Item Yourself or Using a Retrieval Service?
At the end of a wonderful trip to Japan, you suddenly realize you’ve left something important behind…
At that moment, should you fly back to Japan to retrieve it yourself, or should you hire a retrieval service?
This article compares the pros and cons of retrieving your item in person versus using a professional retrieval service, and introduces the best option for your situation.
Is Picking It Up Yourself from Overseas Really Realistic?
In most cases, retrieving your lost item yourself from overseas is not recommended — unless you have a very specific reason.
There is, however, one situation where it may be your only option.
When Picking It Up Yourself Is the Only Choice
🚫 Items prohibited from international shipping
Devices with built-in lithium-ion batteries, such as smartphones or laptops, cannot be sent by international mail. In such cases, you must retrieve them in person.
The High Cost of Self-Retrieval
While retrieving it yourself means “you can check the contents with your own eyes”, it also comes with significant costs and hassle:
- ✈️ Transportation
A round-trip flight to Japan can easily cost thousands of dollars
- 🏨 Accommodation
Hotel, meals, and domestic transport will add to the cost depending on your stay
- ⏰ Time and effort
Several days of travel plus the time to visit offices, file paperwork, and handle the procedures
Pros and Cons of Using a Retrieval Service
For overseas residents, hiring a lost-item retrieval service is often the most practical and stress-free choice.
👍 Advantages
- Significant cost savings
Compared to the thousands of dollars you might spend retrieving it yourself, a retrieval service fee is about $500 plus shipping
- Zero time and effort
No need to fly back to Japan — you save both time and energy
- Expert handling
The service manages all communication with lost-and-found offices and handles shipping arrangements
- No language barrier
All communication can be done in English, removing the need for Japanese-language skills
👎 Disadvantages
- Cost
A service fee will apply
- Choosing a trustworthy service
You are entrusting your belongings to someone, so selecting a reliable provider is crucial
How to Identify a Trustworthy Retrieval Service
Regardless of how many reviews a service has, you can evaluate its reliability by looking at:
- Transparency of fees
The service clearly states its fees and explains any possible additional charges
- Responsiveness and care
Prompt, polite replies that address your concerns are a good sign
- Visibility of the person in charge
Knowing who will be handling your item can give you extra peace of mind
Comparison Table – Retrieving from Overseas
| Self-Retrieval | Retrieval Service | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 👎 Very high | 👍 Much cheaper |
| Time & Effort | 👎 Several days required | 👍 Almost none |
| Process Complexity | 👎 Complicated | 👍 Fully handled for you |
| Peace of Mind | 👍 Direct confirmation | 👍 Tracking service available |
| Language Barrier | 👎 Significant | 👍 None |
Conclusion – Which Should You Choose?
Self-retrieval is recommended if:
- You are still in Japan and can easily stop by the location
- You left behind an electronic device with a lithium-ion battery that cannot be shipped internationally
A retrieval service is recommended if:
- You have already left Japan and want to recover your item without spending excessive time or money
In terms of cost, time, and convenience, a retrieval service is the best option for most people recovering lost items from overseas.
We hope your lost item makes it safely back into your hands.
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About the Author
Yusuke Baba | Japan Lost and Found Service Founder
I myself have had the experience of losing my MacBook while on my honeymoon, so I deeply understand the anxiety that comes with it. This experience gave me a strong desire to help those who are truly in trouble and facing language and cultural barriers, which is why I started this service.
I hope this guide can help ease your worries and provide a clear path to getting your lost item back. If you are struggling with a lost item, please feel free to contact us.