Photo by Nicolas Huk via Flickr
College move-in day is full of excitement. It’s a day that marks a new chapter as you begin college. There’ll be so much going on during move-in day, we want to help you get through it with ease! We have eight tips and tricks for how to make college move-in day a breeze.
1. Communicate with your roommates before move-in day.
If you’re moving in with roommates, communicate prior to move-in day to establish who is bringing what. Talking about what you’re bringing can help prevent doubling up on items that will clutter your apartment. Decide together who will bring utensils for the kitchen, a TV for the living room, and large appliances like a vacuum cleaner. You can also decide who will get which room, or how you’ll arrange furniture if you’re sharing a room. This will reduce the chance of an argument and help you start off on the right foot with your new roommate.
2. Boost your immune system.
Move-in day is a common day to pick up a cold. So many students find themselves sick during the first weeks of school and wonder why. During move-in week, students are coming from many different locations, often bringing new germs with them. In addition to that, the shuffle of furniture and luggage in your new apartment can kick up dust and allergens that might trigger sinus sensitivities. Taking a vitamin C supplement, drinking eight glasses of water per day, and getting enough sleep can help keep your immune system strong and healthy though the move.
3. Don’t feel like you have to unpack everything in one day.
The energy required to complete a move in one day is frequently underestimated. Moving away from home for the first time to go to college is an emotional experience. While exciting, it can also be exhausting. It’s OK to leave some boxes to unpack another day. Not sure what to pack in the first place? Check out this helpful college move-in list.
4. Register your vehicle beforehand.
You’ll want to register your vehicle with your landlord or leasing office prior to move-in day so that you can park close to your apartment building when it’s time to unload your boxes and furniture. Find out if parking spaces are assigned by unit number and if a parking pass is required on your windshield.
Photo by Tulane Public Relations via Wikimedia Commons
5. Have a plan for your pets.
Moving in with pets can be tricky. You don’t want your pet running in and out the door each time it opens, and you also want to prevent anyone tripping over your pet with the many trips back and forth. Have someone watch your pet on move-in day, or keep them crated in a specific room while you move into your new apartment. You should also register your pet with your landlord prior to moving in.
6. Set up mail forwarding.
Changing your address with the postal service is a very important part of making a move. You can do it online, or fill out a form at your local post office. You’ll also want to update your address with credit card companies and your bank so you don’t miss a bill or statement.
7. Ensure your electric and water lines are set up.
Many apartment complexes leave it up to the resident to hook up their water and electric. Find out if you’re responsible for having these utilities turned on from your landlord. They can give you the name of the company and contact information you need to turn on utilities. You’ll want these turned on before you move in so that you’ll be able to use hot water, turn on lights, and set up an internet connection right away.
8. Have your move-in fees ready in the correct payment type.
There are typically a few fees associated with moving into a new apartment, such as a damage deposit or a lease preparation fee. Most apartments accept these payments only by check or money order. Be sure to find out what fees are charged and how you are expected to pay them.