College students have a long list of items to complete before classes begin, and a short amount of time to get everything done.
Moving into a dorm or apartment typically tops the list. It doesn’t have to be a stressful or exhausting process, but it can become one without planning.
Consider this advice from a college senior who has done this before.
- Coordinate with Family and Friends
Before moving day, make sure anyone helping you is on the same page. Try to choose your move-in date and time well ahead so you can reserve a moving truck or trailer. Create a plan for transporting large and heavy items. If moving on campus, check your university’s move-in schedule, unloading directions, etc. Handling the logistics early on keeps everyone aligned with the plan.
- Talk with Your Roommates
If you are sharing a dorm or apartment, connect with your roommates before move-in day. Discuss who will bring shared items to avoid duplicates. This is a huge oversight for many students. You don’t need — and probably can’t fit — two mini fridges, microwaves, couches, TVs, trash cans, rugs, and shower caddies. Comparing item-by-item inventories will eliminate overcrowding, save money, and prevent someone’s parents from hauling duplicate items back home.
- Label Every Box
Have a marker handy with your boxes and packing tape. Label each box with its contents and where it belongs in the dorm or apartment. This makes the unloading process faster and allows you to find certain items you’re looking for when you arrive. Use special boxes designed for breakables or be sure to mark the “fragile” boxes containing electronics and glass so anyone helping knows to handle with care. There is also the option to rent heavy-duty plastic boxes for moving, which you can return afterward and not have to worry about tossing or storing your cardboard boxes.
- Load Heavy Items First
When loading a moving truck, trailer, pickup truck or cargo van, load heavier items like couches, dressers, mattresses and heavy boxes first. This will create a more stable load and easier drive. Follow the 60/40 rule, with 60% of the weight being in the front of a trailer (toward the tongue). Here is a video with nearly 400,000 views on the topic: U-Haul Safe Trailering Video on YouTube.
- Drink Water and Dress the Part
Your hydro flask or tumbler doesn’t need to go in a box. Keep it out and fill it with cold water because your college move-in day probably takes place during the heat of a toasty August day. Hydration is important to how you will feel . Wear light, breathable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty and sweaty. Starting your move early in the morning is best, if you have a choice.
Happy moving!
