Long-distance College Move

Moving to a college that’s miles away from your parents’ home may seem quite exciting and terrifying at the same time. Before your classes even start you will have to pass the first test – pack and move your belongings successfully.

When you are moving long-distance, you should start moving preparations with the idea that you won’t be back for a while. That means that you should sort your items accordingly. Also, you should get rid of one part of your belongings while keeping all the important items handy. Decide which items you cannot live without, what can be easily replaced once you reach your campus/dorm/new apartment, and what should be donated or thrown away. If you want to perform a green move, consider recycling some of the items instead of throwing them away. In case you want to earn some cash, organize a yard sale and sell all items you no longer need or want.

You can also use one of the online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, Craigslist, or other websites to see your things without organizing a yard sale. If you’re wondering how to go through a long-distance college move without stress, this simple guide should help you so read on.

How to organize a long-distance college move

Pack smart

Pack only the items you will use for sure in the next couple of months. If you are moving during the fall, then pack for that season. Always make sure to pack only suitable clothes according to season because you’ll likely be limited with space. And, you don’t want your dorm to be overcrowded with unnecessary things. Divide your clothes seasonally and decide whether you are going to bring with you each pair of boots or shoes you own. Finding out more information about the climate and weather of the area you are moving to will help you decide which clothing pieces to pack.

Figure out the best way to move

You’ll have few options when it comes to moving, and your choice will be most affected by the distance. But by other factors as well, with the budget being no less important than distance. Naturally, your parents will play a major role here. So, take their lead and figure out together what’s the best way for you to move to college. Once you decide how to travel to your college home, you will know the exact amount of items you can pack and bring with you. For example, if you are traveling by air, consider reducing the size of the load. You can’t really have much on you when traveling by plane.

On the other hand, traveling by car or van allows you to bring anything you want. Of course, if that’s in accordance with the college rules and your roommate’s needs (if you have one). Another extremely helpful info you should get is what exactly is already in your dorm room. By finding out which items and furniture pieces are already provided at your new home, you’ll be able to make a plan and know exactly what to bring.

Avoid bringing unnecessary items

Don’t bother packing easily replaceable items like toiletries or school supplies. Some items may not be worth the hassle of packing and transporting them. When moving long-distance, far away from your parents’ home you may opt for packing some items that you hold dear, something that would remind you of your family and loved ones and help you fight the homesickness. So, pack a family photo album instead of soaps or shampoos.

Bring important items

On the other hand, some items are too expensive or too valuable to be replaced and purchased again. Depending on your academic program, you may want to bring a special edition of your favorite book or some other book you will be using during the upcoming school year. Since your budget at college will probably be limited, you’ll want to bring with you all those items you really need or love but you wouldn’t purchase again during your college time.

Ship items beforehand

Have some items shipped to the campus before you get there. Get in touch with the residence managers and check whether they will accept shipment before your arrival. This is a great idea if you’re traveling by plane and you can’t carry much with you. But you still want to have your belongings once you arrive at a dorm. Also, pack the items that can be shipped after you move into a dorm, just in case you need extra things after you spend a while at college or the weather changes that much that you need extra clothing. If this happens, you should ask your parents or friends to take care of it.

Pack an essentials kit

Before you move, make sure you have your essentials kit prepared and have it handy during your long-distance college move. Your essential kit should contain the items you will need in the next couple of hours or days, like some basic toiletries, clean bedding, change of clothes, etc. Your documents and other personal items should be on you at all times and you can use any kind of bag, even a backpack, to keep your essentials close.

Find a common ground

Try to get along with your roommate. Although you will have enough time to get to know each other, it is important to establish some ground rules in order to avoid possible misunderstandings. Since you are sharing the living space, set some home rules with your roommate. Having a roommate is quite a challenge sometimes and it might take some time to adjust to each other and to a dorm life. But the good news is that you’re both in the same situation and should be able to find a common ground.

Hire movers

Since you’ll be moving long-distance, consider hiring professional movers to assist you with this important undertaking. Contact several moving companies and ask for moving quotes. If the total price suits you, have professionals take care of your college move and lead you through the process.