Addressing Commuting Cost Challenges in 2026
As businesses gear up for significant fare revisions in Spring 2026, particularly by East Japan Railway Company, the burden on HR and administrative departments is escalating. Companies with more than 300 employees are especially vulnerable, as they’ll need to extract the relevant employee data, verify new fares, and update commuting cost data, adding to their existing workload.
To alleviate these challenges, Val Research Institute has launched a special short-term plan for its cloud-based service, 'Ekispert Commuting Cost Web,' that allows businesses to utilize essential functions for six months. This plan is available until December 19, 2025.
What is 'Ekispert Commuting Cost Web'?
'Ekispert Commuting Cost Web' simplifies the intricate management and application processes related to commuting allowances, such as route searches and refunds. Designed to enhance efficiency, the platform aims to reduce commuting costs by providing appropriate commuting routes while adapting to diverse working styles, such as telecommuting and multi-location work.
Short-Term Plan Overview
- - Utilization Period: 6 months
- - Available Functions: Focused on updating existing commuting cost data to reflect the latest fares
- - Eligible Companies: Companies with more than 300 employees
- - Application Deadline: December 19, 2025
By opting for this short-term plan, HR departments can relieve themselves from the labor-intensive tasks of confirming and updating commuting allowances, as the system will handle everything from identifying affected employees to updating payment data automatically.
Generally, the regular annual usage of 'Ekispert Commuting Cost Web' requires a commitment of at least one year. However, this special plan allows companies to focus on managing fare revisions during crucial periods without a long-term commitment.
Why is This Important?
The anticipated fare revisions will not only necessitate an overhaul of current commuting cost management systems but also mirror a shift in workplace dynamics post-pandemic. As businesses adapt to new working paradigms, including increased telecommuting, streamlining commuting cost calculations has never been more crucial.
Val Research Institute has committed itself to staying ahead of such changes, continuing to support over 120,000 companies with innovative solutions tailored to evolving transportation landscapes.
Background of 'Ekispert' Service
Launched in 1988, 'Ekispert' is known as Japan's first route search service. Over the past 35 years, it has established itself as a pioneer in public transportation route searching, providing real-time information on railways, buses, air travel, and ferries, alongside optimal route information and fare data. Its extensive database and proprietary algorithms have ensured that users from both private and business sectors benefit from efficient transport solutions.
For more details on this short-term plan and how to sign up, please visit:
Special Plan Details
Company Profile
Val Research Institute, led by CEO Munetoshi Kikuchi, is headquartered in Suginami, Tokyo. Originally established in July 1976, the institute has invested significantly in technology advancements to meet the modern demands of commuting solutions.
For an in-depth understanding of their offerings, you can explore their
official website. Please note, the name and logo of 'Ekispert' are trademarks of Val Research Institute and are protected by intellectual property laws.