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Why Moving Doesn’t Have to Be Your Nightmare Moving ranks right up there with root canals and tax audits on most people’s list of things they’d rather avoid. But here’s the thing – it doesn’t have to feel like the world is ending. When you move stress-free, you can actually enjoy the excitement of starting fresh in a new place. The secret isn’t magic or luck. It’s all about having a solid plan, picking the right timing, and getting help from people who know what they’re doing. Think of moving like planning a big party – the more organized you are, the more fun everyone has. Most people stress about moving because they wait too long to start planning or try to do everything themselves. But when you break it down into manageable steps and bring in the right helpers, moving becomes just another item on your to-do list instead of a month-long panic attack. Start Planning Early: Your 8-Week Moving Timeline The best way to move stress-free starts with giving yourself plenty of time. Here’s a realistic timeline that actually works: 8 Weeks Before Moving 6 Weeks Before Moving 4 Weeks Before Moving 2 Weeks Before Moving 1 Week Before Moving Moving Day Choosing the Perfect Time to Move Timing can make or break your attempt to move stress-free. The wrong timing means higher costs, limited availability, and more headaches. Best Times to Move Mid-Month Moves: Most people move at the beginning or end of the month, so mid-month dates often cost less and give you more options. Fall and Winter: Moving during cooler months typically costs 10-20% less than summer moves. Plus, moving companies have more availability. Weekdays: Tuesday through Thursday moves usually cost less than weekend moves and movers are less rushed. Times to Avoid Summer Peak Season: June through August is when everyone wants to move, especially families with school-age kids. End of Month: Moving companies get swamped with people whose leases end on the 31st. Holidays: Moving around major holidays means limited availability and stressed-out movers. If you have flexibility in your moving date, you can save hundreds of dollars and have a much calmer experience. Even shifting your move by a week can make a huge difference. Finding Professional Movers Who Actually Care The right moving company can be the difference between a smooth transition and a complete disaster. Here’s how to find movers who’ll help you move stress-free: Research Like Your Sanity Depends on It Check online reviews on multiple platforms, not just one website. Look for patterns in complaints – if multiple people mention damaged items or late arrivals, that’s a red flag. Ask friends and family for recommendations. Personal experiences from people you trust are worth their weight in gold. Get Multiple Quotes Never go with the first quote you get. Get at least three estimates, and be suspicious of quotes that are way higher or lower than the others. Good moving companies will want to see your belongings in person or through a video call before giving you a quote. Companies that quote over the phone without seeing your stuff are usually trouble. Ask the Right Questions Red Flags to Watch Out For For those in Hong Kong looking for reliable international moving services, Best Movers HK offers professional moving solutions. Their international moving services are designed to help you move stress-free, whether you’re relocating within Hong Kong or to another country entirely. Packing Like a Pro: Smart Strategies That Save Time Packing doesn’t have to be the most stressful part of moving. With the right approach, you can pack efficiently and protect your belongings. Room-by-Room Packing Strategy Start with Storage Areas: Begin packing closets, attics, and basements first. These areas contain items you’re not using daily. Pack Similar Items Together: Keep kitchen items with kitchen items, bedroom stuff with bedroom stuff. This makes unpacking so much easier. Label Everything Clearly: Write the room destination and a brief description of contents on each box. “Kitchen – Pots and Pans” is way more helpful than just “Kitchen.” Smart Packing Techniques Use What You Have: Pack clothes in suitcases and dresser drawers. Use towels and linens as padding for fragile items. Keep Essential Boxes Small: Books are heavy – use small boxes for them. Large boxes should be for lighter items like pillows and blankets. Pack an “Open First” Box: Include toilet paper, basic tools, phone chargers, snacks, and other things you’ll need immediately. Protecting Fragile Items Wrap dishes individually and pack them vertically like records. This distributes weight better and prevents crushing. For electronics, use original boxes if you still have them. If not, wrap in blankets and clearly mark “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP.” Take photos of valuable items before packing them. This helps with insurance claims if anything gets damaged. Managing Moving Day Like a Champion Moving day is when all your planning pays off. Here’s how to keep everything running smoothly and move stress-free on the big day: Be Ready When Movers Arrive Have everything packed and ready to go except for a small bag of daily essentials. Movers shouldn’t have to wait while you finish packing. Clear pathways through your home. Make sure movers can easily get from your home to the truck without obstacles. Stay Organized and Communicate Introduce yourself to the moving crew and let them know about any special concerns or fragile items. Be available to answer questions, but try not to hover. Professional movers know their job – let them work. Keep important documents, medications, and valuables with you rather than putting them in the moving truck. Final Walk-Through Before the movers leave, do a final walk-through of your old home. Check all closets, cabinets, and storage areas. At your new home, check off items as they come off the truck. Make note of any damage immediately. Don’t feel pressured to tip if service was poor, but if your movers did a great job, 10-15% of the total cost split among the

Introduction Moving internationally from Hong Kong can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with complex paperwork, shipping regulations, and the emotional stress of leaving home. Whether you’re relocating for work, family reasons, or seeking new opportunities, proper planning makes all the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful experience. Hong Kong’s unique position as an international hub means residents often have experience with global connections, but moving your entire life overseas requires careful attention to details you might not have considered before. From understanding shipping costs to navigating customs requirements, every aspect of your international move needs thoughtful preparation. Why People Are Moving from Hong Kong Internationally ? The reasons behind international moving from Hong Kong vary widely among residents. Many professionals receive job offers in other countries, while others seek educational opportunities or want to reunite with family members abroad. Recent years have seen increased interest in relocating for lifestyle changes, whether that means slower-paced living in rural areas or access to different healthcare systems. Some families choose to move for their children’s education, seeking specific school systems or university pathways not available locally. Others are drawn to countries with different climates, housing markets, or retirement benefits. Whatever your reasons, understanding your motivations helps shape your moving strategy and destination choice. Economic factors also play a role in relocation decisions. Different countries offer varying costs of living, tax structures, and career opportunities. Some people find better work-life balance elsewhere, while others are attracted to entrepreneurial environments or specific industries that thrive in certain locations. Planning Your International Move from Hong Kong Start planning your international move at least 3-6 months before your intended departure date. This timeline gives you enough space to handle visa applications, find housing, arrange shipping, and complete other essential tasks without rushing. Create a detailed moving checklist that includes both administrative tasks and practical preparations. Your list should cover visa and immigration paperwork, medical records transfer, school enrollment for children, pet relocation if applicable, and financial account transfers. Research your destination country’s requirements thoroughly. Different countries have specific rules about what items you can bring, quarantine periods for pets, professional license transfers, and tax obligations. Some countries require proof of funds, health certificates, or sponsor letters as part of the immigration process. Consider visiting your destination before the move if possible. This trip helps you understand the local housing market, school options, and general lifestyle. You can also open bank accounts, meet with potential employers, or establish connections that make your transition smoother. Creating Your Moving Budget International moving costs vary significantly based on your destination, shipping volume, and timeline preferences. Start by getting quotes from multiple moving companies to understand the baseline expenses for your situation. Your budget should include shipping costs, visa and legal fees, temporary accommodation, travel expenses, insurance, and an emergency fund for unexpected costs. Many people underestimate the total expenses involved in international relocation, so add at least 20% buffer to your initial estimates. Don’t forget to account for costs in your new country, including security deposits for housing, vehicle purchases or rentals, new furniture or appliances, and setup fees for utilities and services. Understanding Moving Costs International moving from Hong Kong involves several cost components that vary based on your specific situation. Shipping represents the largest expense for most families, with costs determined by volume, weight, destination, and shipping method. Sea freight costs significantly less than air freight but takes much longer to arrive. A typical 20-foot container from Hong Kong to North America costs between $3,000-$6,000, while the same container to Australia might cost $2,500-$4,500. European destinations usually fall somewhere in the middle range. Air freight costs approximately 5-10 times more than sea freight but delivers your belongings within 1-2 weeks instead of 4-8 weeks. Most families use air freight only for essential items and send everything else by sea. Additional Costs to Consider Beyond basic shipping, you’ll pay for packing services, insurance, customs clearance, and delivery to your new home. Professional packing typically costs $500-$1,500 depending on your home size and the complexity of items being packed. Insurance protects your belongings during transit and costs around 1-2% of the declared value. While this might seem expensive, replacing damaged or lost items in your new country often costs much more than the insurance premium. Customs duties and taxes vary by destination country and the types of items you’re importing. Some countries allow duty-free import of personal belongings if you meet specific residency requirements, while others charge significant fees regardless of your situation. Storage costs apply if your belongings arrive before you’re ready to receive them or if you need temporary storage while finding permanent housing. Best Movers HK can help you understand these various cost components and plan accordingly. Choosing the Right Moving Company Selecting the right moving company makes or breaks your international relocation experience. Look for companies with specific experience in international moves from Hong Kong, proper licensing, and positive customer reviews from people who moved to your destination country. Check that your chosen company holds appropriate certifications and insurance coverage. International movers should be members of professional organizations like FIDI or IAM, which maintain quality standards and provide dispute resolution services if problems arise. Get detailed written quotes from at least three companies, making sure each quote covers the same services and conditions. Beware of quotes that seem unusually low, as these often come with hidden fees or reduced service quality that creates problems later. Ask about the company’s partnerships in your destination country. Established movers work with reliable agents worldwide who handle customs clearance and final delivery. This network approach typically provides smoother service than companies trying to manage everything from Hong Kong. Questions to Ask Potential Movers When interviewing moving companies, ask about their experience with your specific destination, average transit times, insurance coverage options, and what happens if delays occur. Find out whether they handle customs clearance or if you need separate arrangements. Ask for references from customers who recently

Introduction Moving to a new home or office can feel overwhelming, especially in a bustling city like Hong Kong. Finding reliable movers in Hong Kong doesn’t have to be a stressful experience if you know what questions to ask and what to look for. Whether you’re relocating within Hong Kong or planning an international move, choosing the right moving company can make all the difference between a smooth transition and a moving nightmare. Why Finding the Right Moving Company Matters Moving involves trusting strangers with your most valuable possessions. Your furniture, electronics, family photos, and personal belongings all need careful handling during transport. The right moving company will treat your items like their own, while unprofessional movers might damage your property or even disappear with your belongings. Hong Kong’s unique housing landscape presents specific challenges. Many buildings have narrow staircases, small elevators, and limited parking spaces. Reliable movers in Hong Kong understand these local conditions and come prepared with the right equipment and expertise. Professional moving companies also provide insurance coverage and have proper licensing. This protection gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong, you have recourse. Amateur movers or unlicensed companies often leave you with no options if problems arise. Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring Are You Licensed and Insured? Every legitimate moving company should have proper business licenses and insurance coverage. Ask to see their business registration documents and insurance certificates. Don’t just take their word for it – verify these credentials independently. Insurance is particularly important because it protects your belongings during the move. Make sure the company carries both liability insurance (covering injuries on your property) and cargo insurance (covering damage to your items). How Long Have You Been in Business? Experience matters in the moving industry. Companies that have been operating for several years have likely encountered various challenging situations and learned how to handle them professionally. New companies aren’t necessarily bad, but established businesses often provide more reliability. Ask about their track record and whether they can provide references from recent customers. A company confident in their service quality will gladly share customer testimonials. What Services Do You Offer? Different moves require different services. Some people need full-service moving (packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking), while others prefer to handle packing themselves. Make sure the company offers exactly what you need. Common moving services include: Can You Provide a Written Estimate? Never hire movers based on a phone estimate alone. Reputable companies will visit your home or office to assess your belongings and provide a detailed written quote. This on-site inspection allows them to give you accurate pricing and identify any potential challenges. The estimate should clearly break down all costs, including: What Are Your Payment Terms? Be wary of companies demanding large upfront payments. Most reliable movers in Hong Kong require only a small deposit (typically 10-20% of the total cost) with the balance due upon completion of the move. Avoid companies that demand full payment in advance or only accept cash. Professional movers typically accept multiple payment methods and provide clear receipts for all transactions. How Do You Handle Damage Claims? Even the most careful movers occasionally damage items. Ask about their claims process and how quickly they resolve issues. Good companies have clear procedures for documenting and compensating for damages. Request information about their insurance coverage limits and what items might not be covered. Some companies exclude certain high-value items or require separate insurance for electronics and artwork. Red Flags to Watch Out For Door-to-Door Sales Be cautious of movers who show up at your door offering moving services. Legitimate companies don’t typically use this sales approach. These door-to-door salespeople often represent companies with poor reputations or may be running scams. Unusually Low Estimates If one company’s quote is significantly lower than others, investigate carefully. They might be using bait-and-switch tactics, planning to add unexpected charges later, or providing substandard service. Remember that quality moving services cost money. Extremely low prices often mean corner-cutting that could result in damaged belongings or poor service. No Physical Address Companies without a proper business address raise immediate red flags. You should be able to visit their office or warehouse if needed. P.O. boxes or residential addresses aren’t appropriate for professional moving companies. Lack of Written Contracts Never hire movers who won’t provide written contracts. Verbal agreements offer no protection if disputes arise. The contract should detail all services, costs, timing, and terms and conditions. Demanding Large Deposits As mentioned earlier, be suspicious of companies requiring substantial upfront payments. This is often a sign of financial instability or fraudulent operations. Understanding Moving Costs in Hong Kong Moving costs in Hong Kong vary based on several factors. Understanding these variables helps you budget appropriately and compare quotes fairly. Distance and Location Local moves within Hong Kong cost less than international relocations. However, even local moves can vary in price depending on specific locations. Moving between buildings with good access costs less than moves involving difficult-to-reach apartments or offices. Volume and Weight Most moving companies base their pricing on the volume of items being moved. Some also consider weight, especially for international moves where shipping costs matter. Create an inventory of your belongings to help movers provide accurate estimates. This also helps you decide what to move and what to sell or donate. Time of Year Peak moving seasons (summer months and end/beginning of the year) often have higher prices due to increased demand. If you have flexibility in your moving date, consider scheduling during off-peak times for better rates. Additional Services Each extra service adds to your total cost. Packing services, storage, special handling for fragile items, and weekend or holiday moves all increase the final price. Building Access Apartments or offices in buildings with limited elevator access, narrow staircases, or parking restrictions may incur additional charges. Movers might need special equipment or extra time to navigate these challenges. Preparing for Your Move Create an Inventory List all your belongings, noting

Introduction Finding the right storage solution in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to decide between short-term vs long-term options. Whether you’re moving homes, downsizing your business, or simply need extra space for seasonal items, understanding the differences between these storage solutions will help you make the best decision for your specific needs and budget. Understanding Short-Term Storage Solutions Short-term storage typically refers to storage periods ranging from a few days to several months, usually up to six months. These solutions are designed for people who need temporary space while transitioning between homes, renovating their current space, or dealing with unexpected life changes. Common Short-Term Storage Scenarios When considering short-term vs long-term options, short-term storage works best for: Short-term storage facilities in Hong Kong typically offer flexible rental agreements without long-term commitments. This flexibility comes at a premium, as daily and weekly rates are generally higher than monthly rates for extended periods. Benefits of Short-Term Storage Options Flexibility and Convenience Short-term storage solutions offer maximum flexibility. You can access your items whenever needed without worrying about breaking long-term contracts. Most facilities provide 24/7 access or extended hours, making it easy to retrieve items on your schedule. No Long-Term Commitment Unlike long-term contracts, short-term storage allows you to rent space as needed. You won’t be locked into yearly agreements or face penalties for early termination. This flexibility is especially valuable in Hong Kong’s dynamic housing and business environment. Quick Setup Short-term storage can usually be arranged within a day or two. When you need immediate storage solutions, these options provide fast access to secure space without lengthy approval processes. Understanding Long-Term Storage Solutions Long-term storage typically involves contracts spanning six months to several years. These solutions are ideal for people who know they’ll need storage space for an extended period and want to benefit from lower monthly rates and additional services. Ideal Long-Term Storage Situations When weighing short-term vs long-term options, long-term storage works well for: Long-Term Storage Features Long-term storage facilities often provide additional services like inventory management, climate control, and enhanced security features. These facilities understand that customers storing items for extended periods need extra protection and organization. Advantages of Long-Term Storage Options Cost Savings The most significant advantage of long-term storage is cost effectiveness. Monthly rates decrease substantially when you commit to longer periods. Many Hong Kong storage facilities offer discounts of 10-30% for annual contracts compared to month-to-month rates. Enhanced Services Long-term storage customers often receive priority customer service, free moving assistance, and complimentary storage supplies. Some facilities provide inventory cataloging services, helping you track stored items over extended periods. Stability and Peace of Mind With long-term storage, you secure your space and pricing for the contract duration. This stability is valuable in Hong Kong’s competitive storage market, where prices and availability can fluctuate. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Duration of Storage Need The most important factor in choosing between short-term vs long-term options is honestly assessing how long you’ll need storage. If you’re uncertain, start with short-term storage and upgrade to long-term contracts if needed. Budget Considerations Calculate the total cost for your expected storage period. Short-term storage might cost more monthly, but if you only need storage for two months, it could be less expensive than committing to a six-month long-term contract. Access Requirements Consider how often you’ll need to access your stored items. Short-term storage typically offers more flexible access, while long-term storage might have restricted hours or require advance notice for visits. Item Types and Value Valuable items requiring climate control or enhanced security might be better suited for long-term storage facilities, which often provide superior protection services. Cost Comparison: Short-Term vs Long-Term Short-Term Storage Costs In Hong Kong, short-term storage typically costs HK$200-500 per month for small units (20-50 square feet), with larger units ranging from HK$500-1,200 monthly. Daily rates range from HK$15-40 per day, depending on unit size and location. Long-Term Storage Costs Long-term storage offers significant savings, with monthly rates 15-40% lower than short-term options. Annual contracts might bring costs down to HK$150-350 monthly for small units and HK$400-900 for larger spaces. Hidden Costs to Consider Both storage types may include additional costs: Popular Storage Solutions in Hong Kong Self-Storage Facilities Self-storage is the most popular option for both short-term and long-term needs. These facilities offer various unit sizes with personal access codes and security systems. Container Storage Modified shipping containers provide cost-effective storage, especially for long-term needs. These units offer excellent security and weather protection. Warehouse Storage Professional warehouse storage works well for businesses needing long-term inventory or document storage. These facilities often provide additional services like inventory management. Portable Storage Portable storage units delivered to your location offer convenience for short-term needs, especially during moves or renovations. How Best Movers HK Can Help Best Movers HK understands the challenges of choosing between short-term vs long-term options for storage solutions. Our comprehensive storage services include both short-term and long-term solutions designed to meet diverse customer needs. Our Storage Services Include: Why Choose Best Movers HK? Our team helps customers evaluate their specific needs and recommend the most cost-effective storage solution. We provide transparent pricing, flexible terms, and excellent customer service throughout your storage experience. Ready to find your perfect storage solution? Contact Best Movers HK today for a free consultation and customized quote. Making the Right Choice for Your Needs Questions to Ask Yourself Before deciding between short-term vs long-term options, consider these questions: Professional Assessment Consider consulting with storage professionals who can assess your specific situation. Companies like Best Movers HK offer free consultations to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Trial Periods Some storage facilities offer trial periods or allow you to upgrade from short-term to long-term contracts. This approach lets you test the service before making long-term commitments. Conclusion Choosing between short-term vs long-term options for storage solutions in Hong Kong depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and timeline. Short-term storage offers flexibility and convenience for temporary needs,

Moving to a new home in Hong Kong doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tips for a stress-free relocation, you can turn what many consider a difficult experience into a smooth transition. Whether you’re moving within the same district or across Hong Kong Island, proper planning and preparation make all the difference in ensuring your local moving experience goes without a hitch. Why Moving in Hong Kong Requires Special Planning Hong Kong’s unique urban environment presents specific challenges that require careful consideration. The city’s high-rise buildings, narrow streets, and busy traffic patterns mean that standard moving approaches often don’t work effectively here. Understanding Hong Kong’s Housing Landscape Most residential buildings in Hong Kong are high-rise structures with small elevators and narrow corridors. This reality affects how you pack, what moving equipment works best, and how long the process takes. Many buildings also have strict rules about when moves can happen and which elevators can be used for moving purposes. The dense population and limited parking spaces create additional complications. Moving trucks often cannot park directly outside buildings, requiring careful coordination with building management and sometimes multiple trips with smaller vehicles. Weather Considerations Hong Kong’s subtropical climate adds another layer of complexity to moving plans. The hot, humid summers can make physical moving work exhausting, while the rainy season from May to September can damage belongings if not properly protected. Planning your move around weather patterns helps ensure your belongings stay safe and the process remains comfortable for everyone involved. Pre-Move Planning: Setting Yourself Up for Success Successful moves begin weeks before moving day. Starting your planning process early gives you time to handle unexpected issues and reduces last-minute stress. Creating Your Moving Timeline Begin planning at least 6-8 weeks before your intended moving date. This timeline allows you to research moving companies, gather quotes, and book services before the best companies fill their schedules. Popular moving dates, such as weekends and month-ends, often book up quickly in Hong Kong’s competitive housing market. 8 Weeks Before Moving: 6 Weeks Before Moving: 4 Weeks Before Moving: 2 Weeks Before Moving: Inventory and Decluttering Moving provides an excellent opportunity to reduce your belongings. Hong Kong’s high storage costs and limited space make decluttering especially valuable. Go through each room systematically, deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Create a detailed inventory of valuable items, including photographs and serial numbers where applicable. This inventory helps with insurance claims if anything gets damaged and helps you keep track of boxes during the move. Choosing the Right Local Moving Company Selecting a reliable moving company is one of the most important decisions in ensuring your stress-free relocation. Not all moving companies offer the same services or quality levels, so research is essential. What to Look for in a Moving Company When evaluating potential movers, consider their experience with Hong Kong’s specific challenges. Companies familiar with local building regulations, traffic patterns, and common apartment layouts will handle your move more efficiently. Best Movers HK specializes in local moving services throughout Hong Kong, understanding the unique requirements of relocating within the city. Their experience with high-rise buildings and narrow spaces makes them well-equipped to handle typical Hong Kong moving challenges. Questions to Ask Potential Movers Before hiring any moving company, ask specific questions about their services and policies: Getting Accurate Quotes Request in-person estimates rather than phone quotes. Professional movers need to see your belongings, assess access challenges, and understand your specific requirements to provide accurate pricing. Be wary of quotes that seem significantly lower than others, as they may indicate hidden fees or subpar service. Packing Strategies for Hong Kong Apartments Effective packing protects your belongings and makes unpacking easier in your new home. Hong Kong’s humidity and space constraints require specific packing approaches. Climate-Appropriate Packing Hong Kong’s high humidity can damage certain materials during transport and storage. Use moisture-absorbing packets in boxes containing books, documents, or fabric items. Avoid using newspaper for wrapping, as the ink can transfer and become smudged in humid conditions. For electronics, use original packaging when possible. If original boxes aren’t available, wrap items in anti-static materials and include silica gel packets to control moisture. Maximizing Small Spaces Hong Kong apartments often have limited storage, so efficient packing becomes crucial. Use your belongings as packing materials when possible – wrap fragile items in towels, linens, or clothing to save space and materials. Pack books in small boxes to keep them manageable. Large boxes full of books become too heavy to lift safely, especially when navigating stairs or elevators. Room-by-Room Packing Strategy Kitchen: Bedroom: Living Room: Bathroom: Navigating Hong Kong’s Building Regulations Most residential buildings in Hong Kong have specific rules about moving procedures. Understanding and following these regulations prevents delays and additional fees. Booking Building Facilities Many buildings require advance booking for elevator use during moves. Some properties designate specific elevators for moving purposes or restrict moving activities to certain hours. Contact your building management at both your current and new addresses to understand their requirements. Typical building requirements include: Protecting Common Areas Building management often requires protection for common areas during moves. This might include covering carpets, walls, or elevator interiors to prevent damage. Professional moving companies should handle these requirements, but confirm these arrangements beforehand. Parking and Access Arrangements Limited parking near buildings means careful coordination of vehicle access. Some buildings have loading docks or designated areas for moving trucks, while others require special permits for temporary parking. Your moving company should handle these arrangements, but double-check that permissions are in place. Moving Day Timeline and Coordination A well-planned moving day reduces stress and ensures everything goes smoothly. Start early and maintain clear communication with all parties involved. Pre-Moving Day Preparation The night before your move, pack a essentials box with items you’ll need immediately in your new home. Include toiletries, medications, phone chargers, important documents, and a change of clothes. Also pack cleaning supplies for any last-minute cleaning needed at either location. Confirm timing