Arrived with the batteries half charged as if stored away, charger wasn't included which I ordered right away but lasted long enough on a half charge to charge a few chores to do around the house. I was expecting it to be heavy after reading the reviews but you can't always trust the reviews, for me it's very easy and simple to use. I must have skipped "NOT COMES WITH CHARGER" as I would have ordered it with the vacuum cleaner. I also ordered a double life battery, 4+ hours, compared to the 2+ hours it comes with. The batteries are charged in 3 to 5 hours. When stored, they should be half charged and then recharged every 6 months to avoid full discharge. As I have many other products that need to be charged from time to time, I will put the date tag on the battery when it was last charged as I think I will always remember it! I have to get up last to vacuum specific areas, this lightweight Hoover cordless vacuum will easily meet my needs. Again, it's NOT HARD even with the battery installed. The kit comes with instructions, but the device is designed for you to figure out. Be sure to register the purchase on the site. The battery has a 3 year warranty, please note this and keep the data sheet or instructions on the battery, NO online registration.