10 Tips for Moving To University or College

For most university or college freshman, the new school year means moving into a new home.  One of the biggest challenges when moving to University is that you are moving into a much smaller home.

Moving to University or College for the first time can be pretty stressful.   Moving their kids to university or college can leave parents physically and emotionally drained as well.

It’s easy to get frustrated when faced with packing and condensing belongings which will ultimately have to fit in a small room shared by one to three other people.  So we have some moving tips for you that can make your transition to your new home easier and less stressful.

Here are 10 moving tips for parents and students to make moving to University easier and less stressful:

Start planning your move as early as possible.  Collecting boxes and moving supplies takes time. Don’t wait until the last minute!  Start packing non-essential items (such as seasonal clothing) immediately.

Use the right moving supplies.  Avoid using old shopping bags, laundry baskets or topless boxes to pack belongings. Your things can get tossed around during the move and loose items can fall out.  Also, beware of using grocery store boxes to pack for your move. They may have been used to store food and can carry bugs.

Shop around for competitive prices on moving supplies.   Prices for moving supplies like moving boxes, packing tape and bubble wrap can vary greatly.  A few phone calls can save you a lot of money in the end.

Try to condense.  Go through your belongings before packing for your move to reduce the amount of items you think you’ll need.  Try to to start the school year clutter-free.  Remember your dorm room will likely be smaller than your room at home.

Clearly label all boxes.  This not only makes unpacking and moving into your new home is easier, it can help you decide what not to unpack yet if certain items are not needed right away.

Pack similar items together.  This will help the student prioritize unpacking without making a huge mess.

Don’t over-pack boxes.  Remember, the heavier the item, the smaller the box.  Placing heavy items things like books into smaller boxes makes them easier to carry.

Use original packaging for large electronics when possible.  The safest way to pack electronics like your computer, TV, stereo equipment, mini-fridge, or video game consoles, is to use the original packaging. If it’s not available, wrap the electronics in anti-static bubble wrap.

Recycle! Buying reusable supplies like high-quality containers is good for parents’ wallets and for the environment.  Most corrugated cardboard boxes can be easily folded and stored during the school year. Plastic storage bins with lids are also a good option. The containers parents buy this year can be reused and recycled throughout their student’s University career.

Get a Hand Truck or Moving Dolly.  This will not only speed up your move into the new residence it can save you from some unpleasant back pain. If you dont own a one and can’t borrow one, you can easily rent them.

Of course if you really want to make your move into your new residence easy, just give TWO MEN A TRUCK a call 🙂