How to Make Your College Move a Little Smoother

For a lot of people (myself included), moving in and out of new place is incredibly tiring, stressful, and aggravating. In college, the entire process is even more frustrating since you and hundreds of other students are trying to move at the same time. From the frantic parents searching for parking spots to the anxious students waiting for the elevators, move-in/out is a hassle for everyone. Now that I've felt the pains and agonies of moving into a residence hall, allow me to share some tips that will hopefully make your move a little smoother:

MOVING IN:

If your school offers an early move-in program, take advantage of it. Your move will be far easier if you avoid the crowds of giddy freshmen and dedicated parents.

Almost every hall provides moving carts to their residents. Use them!

If you're roommate is already settled in, don't be shy to ask for his help. An extra hand can save you a few trips between your car and room. Besides, this is the time when your roommate wants to set a good impression for you and your folks.

Don't take too much stuff! This is the biggest mistake freshmen make, and it truly creates an unnecessary burden. Travel light and invest in some plastic storage bins (It's also a good idea to raise your bed to create more room underneath).

MOVING OUT:

If your parents can't swing by to pick up you and your belongings, try storing your items with one of many storage companies that will be advertising on your campus. These companies pick up your items, store them over the summer, and return them to you in the fall (they can be pricey, though, so keep an eye out for the best deal).

If you find the summer storage companies are out of your budget, try local self-storage warehouses. These facilities tend to be far less expensive and are still convenient if you can transport your things to the unit.

If you can't fit all your belongings into your suitcase, use one of many shipping companies like UPS that will certainly be advertising on your campus.

Around this time, most of your friends will be packing up their own things to go home, so lend each other a hand and make the process easier for everyone.

As with moving in, use the carts your residence hall provides to make fewer trips to and from your room.