Starting college is an exciting time, but the logistics can sometimes be overwhelming. You can ease that stress by following these helpful tips for families relocating students to the University of Vermont, Champlain College, or Saint Michael’s College.
Dorm-Friendly Packing Trips
While moving into a dorm isn’t exactly like moving into a new house, there are some similarities. Just like with any major move, how you organize the packing process can make a huge difference in how smoothly it goes.
Pack Small
Dorm spaces are rarely spacious, so it’s helpful to pack small. Try to use small to medium-sized containers (bags, boxes, plastic totes) and pack as light as possible.
Since you and your family will likely be doing the actual moving, try to limit (or skip) packing heavy, bulky, or unwieldy items. You may need to carry things up flights of stairs, and you’ll have to navigate other students and families moving in at the same time. The easier it is to carry what you pack, the smoother the move will go.
In general, it’s probably not realistic for your new college student to take all their clothes, hobby equipment, books, or personal belongings with them. Instead, it’s better to pick a few favorite things and leave the rest.
Organize by Season
While you’ll want to pack clothing and outerwear appropriate for all seasons, your student won’t need immediate access to all of them. Organize the packing by season so summer, fall, winter, and spring items are together. That way, some things can stay stored, if necessary, until they’re needed.
On-Campus Logistics
Colleges all have a system for move-in days, so it’s important to review that info ahead of time and have it handy during the move-in process. Typically, this includes a specific location and timing for unloading.
Once you know the move-in timeline, plan your travel accordingly. Arrange to arrive on campus as early as possible during your move-in window so you have a shorter wait and plenty of time to unload and move in.
To allow all students to get moved in, colleges often limit how long you can park for unloading. To expedite your move-in, make sure everyone in your party can lift and carry all the items you need to transport.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Inevitably, you or your student will forget things. Or, you’ll discover that the dorm room desperately needs something you didn’t even think about ahead of time.
Don’t worry about it. There’s no way to anticipate every need. You can always purchase items on or near campus if needed.
For personal items left behind, your student can retrieve them during their next visit home. You can also mail things to campus if the need is time-sensitive.
Starting college—whether for the first time or a return trip—is exciting. Planning an effective move-in allows you and your student to focus on that excitement rather than stressing about the move-in process. Packing small and knowing the logistics ahead of time can make all the difference.
If you need help with a college or other move in Burlington or the region, call Chase Moving and Storage today. We’ve been helping families execute effective, streamlined moves for over 100 years. We’re a local, family-owned company, and you can count on us for personalized service and keen attention to detail. Chase Moving and Storage—The Most Trusted Movers Since 1908.
