Hong Kong Apartment Moving Checklist: Everything You Need Before, During & After the Move
Why You Need a Moving Checklist in Hong Kong ?
Moving flats in Hong Kong is a fast-paced, space-tight adventure. Lifts are small, building rules are strict, and traffic never sleeps. A step-by-step Hong Kong Apartment Moving Checklist keeps stress low, avoids missed permits, and saves you money on extra van trips.
Eight-Week Countdown Planner
8 Weeks Out – Dream & Declutter
- Walk through each room with two boxes: Keep and Let Go.
- Donate winter coats you never use to The Salvation Army HK.
- Recycle old electronics at a E-Waste point.
- Measure furniture. Ask: “Will this fit the new lift?”
Tip: Hong Kong apartments often have narrow hallways. A tape measure and your floor plan are your best friends.
6 Weeks Out – Quotes & Paperwork
- List all large items: sofa bed, piano, aquarium, wardrobes.
- Request at least three moving quotes.
- Contact Best Movers HK for a free in-home survey.
- Verify if your building needs a moving-in deposit or lift booking form.
- Gather tenancy agreement, HKID copies, and proof of address for utility set-up.
4 Weeks Out – Supplies & Sorting
- Order boxes, bubble wrap, wardrobe cartons, tape. Aim for:
- Studio: 15–20 medium boxes
- 1-bedroom: 25–30 boxes
- 2-bedroom: 35–45 boxes
- Buy colour stickers for each room – easy labelling later.
- Snap photos of cable setups behind the TV or Wi-Fi router.
2 Weeks Out – Confirm & Notify
- Confirm moving date with Best Movers HK by paying the deposit.
- Notify:
- CLP or HK Electric
- Towngas
- Water Supplies Dept
- Broadband and mobile providers
- Bank and MPF trustee
- Book lift time slots for BOTH buildings (old & new).
Moving Week – Pack, Label, Protect
- Pack least-used rooms first (guest room, storage, balcony).
- Use towels to cushion breakables; saves on bubble wrap.
- Write contents + destination room on two sides of each box.
- Group valuables (passports, jewellery) in a locked suitcase you’ll carry yourself.
Moving Day – A Smooth Exit
- Wake early, have cash for security deposits and tips.
- Keep a “first-night” box: sheets, toilet roll, charger, kettle, snacks.
- Take meter readings with date-stamped phone pics.
- Walk movers through the apartment, highlight fragile items.
After the Move – Settle & Celebrate
- Check boxes against inventory before the truck leaves.
- Unpack bedrooms and bathroom first so you can shower and sleep.
- Register your new address at the post office for mail redirection.
- Treat yourself to wonton noodles—moving in Hong Kong is hard work!
Hong Kong-Specific To-Dos ?
| Task | Why It Matters | When to Do It |
| Lift Reservation | Many buildings allow only 2-hour slots. Fines for overruns. | 2–3 weeks out |
| Building Damage Deposit | Management takes HK$1,000–3,000 upfront. | Same day as lift booking |
| Street Loading Permit (if required) | For trucks >5.5 tonnes or busy roads like Des Voeux Rd. | Check 14 days before |
| Government Furniture Disposal | Book the free bulky waste pick-up hotline 2868 0000. | 1 week before |
| Estate Agent Key Handover | Some leases end at noon sharp—timing is tight. | Moving Day |
Room-by-Room Packing Guide
Kitchen
- Use small boxes for dishes. Heavy = small.
- Wrap knives in dish cloths, label SHARP.
- Defrost fridge 24 hrs before.
Living Room
- Remove legs from tables and wrap separately.
- Cover TV with moving blanket + bubble on corners.
Bedroom
- Wardrobe cartons keep clothes hanging, minimise ironing later.
- Slide shoes into clear bags so pairs stay together.
Bathroom
- Pack liquids upright in plastic bins.
- Tape lids of shampoo bottles.
Balcony/Utility
- Drain washing machine hose, secure drum with transit bolts.
- Fold drying rack flat; tie with rope.
Labelling, Inventory & Insurance Tips
- Colour Code: e.g., blue stickers = bedroom, red = kitchen.
- Number Each Box: #1/30, #2/30 … helps track missing items.
- Create a Google Sheet inventory; share with your mover.
- Photo Insurance: Snap high-value items, note serial numbers.
- Ask your mover about transit protection. Best Movers HK offers basic coverage and optional full-value insurance.
DIY vs Professional Help: Making the Choice
| Factor | DIY | Professional Movers (Best Movers HK) |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Competitive packages, time savings |
| Time | Multiple days off work | Usually one day |
| Lifting | You and friends | Trained crew, safety gear |
| Truck Rental | Need license & parking permit | Included |
| Packing Materials | Buy yourself | Often bundled |
| Liability | Yours | Insured option |
If your flat has no lift or your sofa is a tight fit, pros are worth the fee.
How Best Movers HK Can Help ?
Best Movers HK is a local team serving Hong Kong families since 2010. Services include:
- Local apartment moves: https://bestmovershk.com/local-moving/
- International relocations: https://bestmovershk.com/international-moving/
- Full packing & unpacking
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Short-term storage in secure Tseung Kwan O warehouse
Get a free quote in minutes on their website or call +852 5555 MOVE.
Printable Quick-Check Lists
Essentials Bag
- Wallet, HKID, passports
- Lease documents
- Medication for 3 days
- Chargers & power bank
- Basic toiletries & towel
- Change of clothes
First-Night Box
- Bed linen & pillows
- Toilet paper
- Instant noodles & cutlery
- Cleaning spray & cloth
- Light bulbs (new flats often come without)
- Wi-Fi router
Utility Contact Numbers
| Service | Phone |
| CLP Power | 2678 2678 |
| HK Electric | 2887 3411 |
| Towngas | 2880 6988 |
| Water Supplies Dept | 2824 5000 |
FAQs About Moving Apartments in Hong Kong
Q1. How far in advance should I book movers?
A: Four to six weeks is ideal, especially in peak seasons like summer and month-end.
Q2. Is there a best day of the week to move?
A: Mid-week tends to be cheaper and lifts are less busy.
Q3. What if my building has no loading bay?
A: Discuss with your mover; a smaller truck or shuttle van may be needed.
Q4. Can movers take my plants?
A: Yes, but they may wilt. Keep them last on, first off the truck.
Q5. Do I need insurance for a local move?
A: Not mandatory, but recommended for valuables. Best Movers HK offers affordable options.
Key Takeaways
A solid Hong Kong Apartment Moving Checklist keeps surprises to a minimum. Start eight weeks early, declutter, secure lift bookings, label every box, and consider professional help for a swift, safe move. When in doubt, reach out to Best Movers HK for guidance and a free quote. Happy moving!