The end of the school year is here.
Whether you are a graduating senior or completing your freshman year, there are many things on your mind: finals week, saying goodbye to friends, job hunting, and the emotions of leaving campus and disrupting your daily norm. It is easy to get locked in on exams and personal projects.
Before you know it, move-out day gets shuffled down the to-do list. Then, suddenly, it is here — and it feels more stressful than it needs to be. The truth is moving out of a college apartment or dorm is not that complicated. The chaos comes from overthinking it, overpacking, the absence of essential items, and not having a plan.
Here is what you need, and definitely do not need, for a smooth move-out experience:
1. You need boxes and tape (and cleaning supplies).
Boxes are your foundation, but they do not need to be fancy. A mix of medium and large boxes will cover most of your stuff. Tape is non-negotiable. Having a few extra rolls on hand will save you when you inevitably run out halfway through packing your kitchen items.
Heavy-duty trash bags are also an underrated must-have. They are perfect for T-shirts, bedding, and random loose items that do not need a box. You’ll also need some for the things that get thrown away.
It’s good to have some sanitizing wipes handy, and a couple of rags for cleaning. Odds are the furniture, fixtures, microwave, bathroom and other appliances could use disinfecting.
2. You need a plan.
Know the day and time you are moving. Know who is helping you (the firm commitments, not just the “I’ll try to be there” friends). If you have furniture to move, or stairs to navigate, consider MovingHelp.com to hire local moving labor for an hour at an affordable rate. Tell your parents you need this and perhaps they will pick up the tab.
Know how you are getting your things from A to B. Is your car big enough (if you have a car)? Should you rent a U-Haul truck, cargo van, or trailer?
If you’re returning to school in the fall, would it just be easier to put your items in climate-control storage for three months with Collegeboxes.com? Remember, when running the cost comparison on this option, you’re essentially eliminating the hassle of two trips: one now and one in August or September.
3. Beyond boxes and tape, you don’t need to overbuy supplies.
You are moving out of a college apartment or dorm; not packing a full house. Keep it fairly simple.
You also do not need to keep everything. Move-out is the perfect time to get rid of clothes you do not wear, worn kitchen items that have seen better days, and things you forgot you even owned. The less you bring, the easier the move.
4. You don’t need to put yourself in the position of making multiple trips.
This can quickly become your biggest mistake. It might not seem like a big deal at first. But going back and forth five times from your apartment or dorm to your parent’s house or your new living arrangement is exhausting.
Plan ahead so everything your moving fits in one trip. Save time, energy and gas (remember how expensive gas is). One trip with a U-Haul truck, cargo van, or trailer will almost certainly come out cheaper than multiple trips with your car and likely save you close to a full day in the process.
Some additional quick tips:
- Start early. Pack a box a day during finals week. Move-out day will be much easier.
- Keep your essentials separate. Have one bag or box with the things you will need right away like phone chargers, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
- Pack with intention. Heavier items go in smaller boxes. Lighter items go in bigger boxes.
- The times of labeling boxes in marker with names like “kitchen stuff” and “winter clothes” are behind us. Tools like the U-Haul My Belongings Organizer can help you keep track of what is in each box without having to open it. Scan the barcode on U-Haul boxes to label, make lists, and have pictures of everything packed in each box to make moving as seamless as possible. This is especially helpful if you are putting items into storage. Avoid digging through 10 boxes to find one thing by simply using the U-Haul app as an inventory guide.
The Takeaway
Moving out does not have to be chaotic. Stick to the basics and plan ahead so it doesn’t sneak up on you. Focus on what you need and how to get the job done easily and efficiently.
Happy moving, my fellow college graduates and friends!
