The most exciting part of moving to a new college is also being very challenging. Whether you are moving to a Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Dorm in Fort Myers or moving to your first off-campus apartment in Naples, figuring out how to take your life and fit it into a small, shared living space is no easy task.
As a parent or student in Southwest Florida, dealing with the move in heat, and move in day time constrictions and gaps in move in day storage options all add to the problems of small living quarters. Live in SWFL? Need help? Call The Moving Mavericks at (239) 722-0000 for an honest and free moving quote and let them help you with your dorm or apartment move.
Move with a Dorm-Sized Mindset
With no questions asked, the biggest mistakes students make, is moving with too many of their belongings. When leaving for college, it is of the utmost importance to remember that dorms and student apartments are much smaller than your home bedrooms. When packing, pull your housing layout to make sure everything is still correct. In addition, make sure to also pull your school’s “Dorm-Approved” list, as it usually has things that are school housing no-no’s, like halogen lamps, hot plates, candles, or certain extension cords.
When creating a checklist for moving, focus on items that can be used for multiple purposes, such as:
- Clothes, shoes, and books can be stored in bins that go under the bed.
- Toiletries and other accessories can be stored in over-the-door organizers.
- Collapsible laundry baskets can be used for easy transport and storage.
When it comes to boxes, opt for small and medium ones as these fit better in elevators, staircases, and other tight moving spaces than larger boxes. For larger items, use protective covers or vacuum-seal bags. To avoid overwhelming clutter, plan your packing by room or type of items. If you need to figure out what packing materials to purchase or what size boxes you will need, contact the ‘Moving Mavericks’ at (239) 722-0000.
Coordinating the packing process
When you are living in a dorm or shared apartment, you will have a shared kitchen and a shared living room. To avoid duplicates, coordination with your roommates is key.
Make a checklist for moving separating it into:
- Personal essentials: Clothing, personal décor, school supplies, and laptops
- Shared items: kitchen gadgets, cleaning supplies, a microwave, and a fridge
This will help avoid shared items and give you a more streamlined moving experience, all while saving on moving-related expenses. If friends are moving into the same building, Moving Mavericks can arrange for multiple stops on the moving route. Discuss shared furniture ahead of time.
How to prep electronics and textiles for checklist for moving
Students bring a lot of expensive electronics and textiles that are sensitive to vibrations, such as bedding, pillows, and plush toys to movers.
- Electronics: Keep the original packaging and use anti-static bubble wrap to encase your devices. Label each cord so that you can easily find where everything is.
- Textiles: Vacuum-seal bags are a good option because they minimize the space your textiles will take and protect them against moisture.
If you reside in SWFL, to guarantee the safe arrival of tech and textiles, call The Moving Mavericks at (239) 722-0000.
Books, notebooks, art supplies, and personal files can get heavy.
- Use small, sturdy boxes
- Stack books vertically
- Label fragile items clearly
Moving Mavericks can pack and label things for you in an efficient manner. For tips, call (239) 722-0000.
Survival Kit
Make sure to keep this kit in your personal vehicle, not on the truck.
- Shower supplies
- A small toiletry kit
- A cleaning wipe for easy clean up
- A phone charger and power strip
- A toolkit to assemble furniture.
If you need help setting up your apartment or dorm, call The Moving Mavericks at (239) 722-0000.
Items such as holiday decoration, seasonal clothes, sporting gear, and musical instruments should all be packed in advance. Wrap your specialty items with care and remember to check them off your checklist for moving.
FAQ
Q1: Is summer storage offered to students?
Yes! Storage that is climate controlled is available over the breaks.
Q2: Do movers have permission to head inside the dorm buildings?
Most campuses permit it, and Moving Mavericks knows how to follow the campus guidelines.
Q3: Should I buy furniture at home or near campus?
Buying furniture near campus is pretty common for students. Moving Mavericks can efficiently deliver and pick up.
Q4: How far in advance should I book a college move?
To guarantee your desired date, book a move 8-10 weeks in advance.
Q5: How do I pack electronics safely?
Use original boxes to pack your electronics, label the wires, and don’t let electronics get hot in the car.
Q6: How do I avoid overpacking?
Think about your essentials, pack items that serve multiple purposes, and work with your roommates.
Emotional and Practical Tips
Keep a close personal journal to capture your emotions and helps yourself cope with any sadness, fears or anxieties about leaving home, or any other fears or sadness. Consider self-soothing items to bring a home to your space, like a photo from home, a mug, or a stuffed animal.
If you live in SWFL, call The Moving Mavericks for a free consultation at (239) 722-0000. They help you move with less stress!
Conclusion
Stress should not come from moving to college. To make the move as smooth as possible, stay organized, work with your roommates, and hire help like The Moving Mavericks.
📞 To get your student move scheduled, and receive a free estimate, call The Moving Mavericks at (239) 722-0000.