Whether you’re moving into your college dorm for the first time or returning after a summer of relaxation, the moving process can be time-consuming and stressful if you aren’t prepared. However, with a little bit of planning, your college move-in day can become exponentially easier. In this blog, we’ll tell you about our favourite moving tips for college students!
Create a List
When you’re preparing to move out, your process should begin with a list of everything you need to bring. Start with the absolute essentials: toiletries, bedding, and clothing. Then, move onto everything else—books, technology, decorations, and anything else you want in your new dorm room.
Be careful not to overdo it, though! Space in a dorm room is limited, and it’s unlikely you’ll be able to bring everything you want with you. Be realistic about the number of possessions you’re packing.
After you’re done with this list, we highly recommend making a packing schedule. This will keep you on track as you go through the process. Otherwise, you might find yourself rushing to pack everything the day before you move!
Take Benefit From Our Dorm Packing List
If you’re totally unsure what to include in your list or seem to forget essential things when packing personal belongings, use our list and include necessary items in yours.
What should I pack for my dorm room?
Pack the basics first: bedding, toiletries, clothing, and towels. Then include study materials such as a laptop, notebooks, and pens. You’ll also want a few personal touches like posters, photos, or small decorations to make your space feel like home. Don’t forget cleaning supplies and storage organizers, they’ll save you a lot of hassle later.
When should you start packing to move out of a dorm?
Ideally, start packing at least two weeks before your move-out date. This gives you time to sort through your belongings, donate or discard what you don’t need, and avoid last-minute stress.
How long does it take to pack up a dorm room?
On average, it takes one to two full days to pack up a dorm room. The time depends on how many belongings you’ve accumulated and how organized you’ve been throughout the school year. Having a plan and enough boxes on hand will make the process go much faster.
Purge Your Belongings
Now is a better time than ever to downsize your possessions. Go through your belongings and consider what you want to get rid of. Once you’ve sorted it out, you have a few options:
- Donate. This is a helpful and fulfilling way to purge your possessions. It’s also hassle-free, which is perfect for a college student who wants to save time on moving.
- Trash. Everything wears down over time. If you’re looking to get rid of something you’ve had for a long time already, it may be time to let it go and take it to the trash.
- Have a yard sale. If you have lots of belongings you want to be rid of, you could always try a yard sale. This works best if you team up with others who are looking to sell, like your family or other students headed to college. It’s a great way to make some extra cash!
Pack an Essentials Box
It can take a while to unpack everything once you’re officially moved into your dorm room, and there’s nothing worse than hunting down your toiletries among piles and piles of packed boxes. To avoid this, you can pack an essentials box (or bag). In this box, pack everything you’ll need for at least your first night in your dorm room, like toiletries, medications, and a fresh change of clothes. These should help you get through the first day or two as you unpack.
Keep Organized With Moving Boxes
High-quality moving boxes and packing supplies can be a great way to make your move more efficient. Try to get boxes of the same or similar size for easier stacking. Also, be sure to label every box with its contents so you can easily sort them out after moving day!
For more information, take a look at our blog on how to properly pack boxes!
How to Move a College Student Across the Country?
Long-distance has even more unique challenges, but with careful preparation, the process can be manageable. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth move:
- Research moving companies. Look for companies that specialize in cross-country relocations. This will save time and reduce stress compared to handling the move on your own.
- Decide what to ship vs. carry. Consider sending books, seasonal clothing, or other non-essentials ahead of time to lighten your main moving load.
- Evaluate large items. For furniture or bulky items, decide if it’s worth transporting them or if it’s more practical to purchase new ones at your destination.
- Organize travel logistics. Book flights or map out your road trip early, and make sure you have all necessary travel details planned.
- Keep essential documents handy. Items like student IDs, lease agreements, and financial paperwork should always be easily accessible.
- Label and pack efficiently. Use clear labeling for boxes, and keep a small essentials bag with toiletries, snacks, and important items for the journey.
Ask For Assistance
Moving to college is nothing to sneeze at! In fact, it can be a lot of work, especially if you’re doing most of it yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try enlisting family or friends to help out!
Alternatively, you could hire moving services for professional aid in the moving process. A moving company will ensure an easy move and allow you to put your feet up and relax.
Stress-Free College Moving Services in Edmonton
Eager Beaver Moving & Storage are your expert movers in Edmonton. Our family-owned business has been serving the community for generations. Contact us to learn more or get your free moving estimate today.
