10 Best Tips for College Move-In Day

Advice for campus moving day 

Your excitement has grown since you got that acceptance letter many months ago. Now, college move-in day is rapidly approaching, and anticipation is becoming nervousness as you prepare to move to campus. 

Besides packing your things for college, what else can you do to keep the chaos away on your move-in day? Try these tips for the best experience moving into university housing.  

10 tips for a successful college move-in day

Follow these tips for an easy move-in day: 

1. Ask for help

Moving into campus housing can seem like a daunting task. That’s why many universities have other students or staff who can help with the process. Even with help at the school, having someone else with you (if possible) can make move-in day faster and less overwhelming. 

You could hire movers, ask your family or exchange help with other students moving in.  

Pro tip: A rolling cart or a folding dolly with bungee cords or straps is helpful for larger loads. 

2. Plan for comfort when dressing for the day

Move-in day isn’t the time to break in new shoes or show off a favorite outfit. With many trips to the car for unloading, you’ll need comfortable shoes and loose, moisture-wicking clothing to stay cool. 

3. Follow check-in procedures

Most colleges set moving times to prevent traffic jams. Arrive on time for check-in — showing up too early or late can cause longer wait times for everyone.  

Make sure you understand where to collect keys or pay any deposits. If you’re not sure, ask someone! Colleges typically have staff on hand to answer questions on move-in day. 

4. Be considerate of other students

Be kind to other students you encounter. Follow the general rule of treating others how you want to be treated.  

• Avoid blocking stairs, doorways or parking lot exits 
• Don’t hog the elevator 
• Help other students with unloading when you’re finished 
• Hold open doors  

5. Stay hydrated

Even in cooler weather, people can overheat when unloading things. Make sure you and any helpers drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.  

And don’t forget to eat! You’ll need energy to get through the day. 

6. Use the shortest path for unloading

The shortest route to your room might not be the front door. Once you’ve found the room, look for closer exits to shorten additional trips.  

Many dorms open all doors while students are moving in to limit congestion in the hallways, so you’ll save some energy with the quickest path. 

7. Set up a fan and a doorstop

Fans and doorstops are essential tools for college move-in day. With the dorm’s outside doors constantly opening (or propped open), the inside of the building can get stuffy.  

Set up a box fan in the room right away to keep the air flowing. It’s also helpful to put a doorstop under the room door to make it easier to drop off things. 

8. Secure valuables

While unloading, watch appliances, laptops, phones and other valuable items to ensure they are not lost or misplaced.

9. Wait to unpack

It’s best to wait and unpack after everything is in the room so you don’t delay another student’s unloading process. 

10. Celebrate the triumph

Moving to college is hard work, and you’ve earned the right to celebrate. Honor the occasion by going out to eat or having a picnic with family or friends.  

If you’re alone, reach out to other students or attend any welcome activities to get ready for the year. 

Still planning your move to campus?

U-Pack® can help! We’re a self-moving company that specializes in long-distance relocation, including student moves.  

Request a free quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to one of our helpful moving consultants. 

What’s your best tip for college move-in day? Let us know in the comments!