Just like that, summer is somehow winding down, the calendar is almost to August, and that means it’s time for college students to start thinking about moving to campus!
Whether it’s your first year on campus moving into dorms or you’re moving into off-campus housing or apartments, this is the time to start getting ready so you can avoid any stress during your move. Planning will help you figure out what you need to bring, what you can leave behind, and help you get a jump on packing, so you aren’t scrambling hours before you’re set to hit the road.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been helping students move to and from college campuses for over four decades, and we’ve learned a thing or two along the way.
From our early beginnings moving students on the campus of Michigan State University near our hometown of Lansing, Michigan, to moving on campuses in 47 states – and in Canada – we’ve seen every type of college living situation there is, and we’ve put together our best tips on how to make moving day a positive experience.
Let’s go over the six most important tips below!
Create A Moving Plan
Every good move starts with a solid moving plan, and college moves are no different. A good moving checklist will help organize your thoughts, set deadlines for when things need to be completed, and will help keep track of your progress as you get ready to move.
Start Packing Early
We cannot stress this enough, and it’s our most important moving tip for any scenario: start packing well in advance of moving day!
Packing takes time, and it can be tedious. Going room by room and starting early lets you chip away at the process over time and complete it in chunks rather than trying to do it all at once. Similarly, be sure to label all your boxes so you know what is in each box when you arrive!
Review The Layout Of Your Living Space
From dorms to apartments and everything in between, you’ll want to do a thorough review of your living space, so you know what you have room to bring and what won’t fit.
Connect With Roommates To Determine What Everyone Is Bringing
Chances are you’re going to have roommates, so you’ll want to coordinate with them to figure out what everyone is bringing so you don’t double up on items that will end up taking space.
Decide What You Need And Leave Everything Else Behind
As you pack for your move to campus, it can feel like you need to bring everything, but that’s not realistic. Go through your belongings and determine what is necessary and what isn’t, and leave behind things you don’t think you’ll be using frequently on campus. You can always return home to get it if needed!
Pack Items That Remind You Of Home
This tip can be especially useful for freshmen, as it’s often the first time away from home in their lives. Pack an item or two that feels like home, whether it’s a couple of pictures, a favorite table or lamp, or blankets that you’re familiar with.
Bring The Basics
You might be focused on what clothes, shoes, and electronics to bring, but you still need to focus on the essentials. Cleaning supplies, trash bags, toiletries, a first aid kit, cords and charges, and everyday medicines are a must when moving away to college.
For more tips on how to get ready for your college move or to get a free quote from your local TWO MEN AND A TRUCK franchise, click here!