Don't get anything that plugs in. You won't know what type of plug you will need. So, you may get this awesome coffee maker and that the plug is not compatible. Sure, you can use adapters. But, we found this does not even work. We blew up our Wii the first week moved to our new country. We even carried it on the plane with us, not in our shipment because we had a nine year old son who could not live without it. As Wii's we're not allowed in China at the time we had to go to some black market place and buy a new one. Hopefully, with a good package you get a small appliance allowance for when you get there.

If you are allowed a sea shipment DO get pots, pans, dishes etc. If you can get away with asking for gift cards do so, so you can buy a years worth of things and brands that you like. Deodorant, toothpaste, dental floss, medicines like Advil or allergy meds. We were in China for four years and by the end we could find everything but Franks Hot Sauce (which came checked in baggage with us every year from the states, Ziplock bags are your friends.) But, the first year it may serve you well to have familiar things with you and know that you do not have to search them out, although that is half the fun.

I am trying to think of the what I wish I knew things. Oh, other items would be sheets, towels, blankets or maybe area rugs or doormats.

Good luck with your assignment. It will be what you make of it and hopefully you will have as much fun as we did. Oh, congrats as well!