Complete Moving Home Checklist for Hong Kong

Complete Moving Home Checklist for Hong Kong

Moving house is stressful anywhere, but Hong Kong adds its own challenges: narrow corridors, tiny lifts, strict building management rules, and the logistics of relocating within one of the world's most densely populated cities. Whether you are moving across the harbour or one floor up, this checklist will help you stay organised.

4–6 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Book your moving company early — HK movers get booked fast, especially at month-end. Get at least three quotes. For a typical 2-bedroom flat, expect HK$3,000 to HK$8,000 for a local move.
• Notify your landlord — Confirm your notice period (typically one to two months), send written notice, and arrange a check-out inspection.
• Contact building management at both ends — Crucial in Hong Kong. Book the service lift for moving day at both buildings. Many estates restrict moves to weekday hours (9am–5pm) and require a refundable deposit (HK$2,000–HK$5,000). Some prohibit Sunday moves.
• Start decluttering — Moving costs are often calculated by volume. Sell items on Carousell, donate to the Salvation Army or Crossroads Foundation, or arrange FEHD bulk waste collection.

2–3 Weeks Before

• Transfer utilities — Contact CLP or HK Electric (allow 3–5 working days), Towngas (appointment needed), Water Supplies Department, and your internet provider (PCCW, HGC, SmarTone — some need 2–4 weeks for new installation).
• Redirect mail — Hongkong Post offers redirection for HK$90 (3 months) or HK$180 (12 months). Apply at least two weeks ahead.
• Update your address — Immigration Department (smart ID card), banks, insurance, Inland Revenue Department, employer, and subscriptions.
• Start packing non-essentials — Books, seasonal clothing, decorations. Label every box with contents and destination room.
• Gather packing materials — Many HK movers provide boxes. Free used boxes are available from ParknShop and Wellcome.

1 Week Before

• Confirm all bookings — Moving company, both buildings' management, and any tradespeople needed at the new flat (cleaners, electricians, locksmiths).
• Pack room by room — Complete one room before starting the next. Photograph electronic setups before disconnecting.
• Prepare an essentials box — Toiletries, chargers, change of clothes, medications, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, kettle, and instant noodles — the classic HK moving-day meal.
• Handle valuables personally — HKID, passports, property deeds, jewellery, cash, and laptops travel with you, not the movers.
• Defrost the fridge — 24–48 hours before if you are taking it. Wipe dry to prevent mould.

Moving Day

• Direct the movers — HK crews work fast. Clear communication prevents items going to the wrong room.
• Protect the flat — Ensure movers use floor and doorframe protectors. Damage to common areas costs your deposit.
• Take meter readings — Record and photograph electricity, gas, and water meters at both flats.
• Final walkthrough — Check every room, cupboard, and storage space. High shelves and utility closets are often forgotten.
• Swap keys and access cards — Return everything to the old building and collect from the new one.

After the Move

• Change the locks — You do not know how many key copies exist. A cylinder replacement costs HK$500 to HK$1,500.
• Deep clean — Professional move-in cleaning costs HK$1,500 to HK$3,000 for a typical flat.
• Check for defects — Inspect for wall cracks, water stains, faulty switches, leaking taps. Document with photos and report to the landlord within the first week.
• Unpack strategically — Kitchen and bedrooms first. Decorating and storage organisation can wait.
• Meet your neighbours — A brief friendly introduction goes a long way in HK's close-quartered buildings.

Hong Kong-Specific Tips

• Measure the lift — Many HK lifts cannot fit items longer than 2 metres. Staircase carry incurs extra charges — typically HK$100–HK$300 per flight.
• Auspicious dates — Many families consult the Chinese almanac (通勝). Popular dates book out earlier.
• Parking and loading — Confirm truck parking and time limits, especially in dense areas like Central, Mong Kok, or Causeway Bay.
• Dispose of large items properly — FEHD offers free bulky waste collection. Never leave items in corridors — it violates fire regulations and incurs fines.

A well-planned move does not have to be overwhelming. Start early, follow this checklist, and you will be settled into your new Hong Kong home in no time.