Packing is one of the most time consuming and stress-inducing parts of any move, that’s for sure. But when you pack smart, you save not only time but space. This is especially important for college students who are starting to think about moving back to school this August. When bringing just the essentials with you, you have more flexibility with when you move back to campus. Plus, you need to be able to move out on a moment’s notice in case the campus shuts down unexpectedly, as we saw last year with the pandemic.
Before you move back to college, check with administrators as to what furniture and equipment they supply so you don’t bring heavy repeats. What worked last year may not work this year. Perhaps you were in a standard dorm last year but this year you will be in an apartment-style dorm where you will have access to a full kitchen. In this case, you will have to bring all cooking supplies such as pots and pans, plates and utensils.
Your movers can get the heavy stuff to campus – but for now, it’s your job to sort out all the packing details. This is why it’s so crucial to pack SMART. We’ve compiled a guide that breaks down packing tasks into five main boxes.
Box 1
This will contain your essentials, AKA, your most used materials that you need to complete your schoolwork and ensure your safety on campus:
- Computer (pack it in its original box for the best protection, if you have it)
- Calculator
- Thumb drive
- Notebooks
- Textbooks
- Pens, pencils, highlighters
- Hand sanitizer
- Masks (if your school still requires them)
Box 2
This box will contain your dorm essentials such as:
- Sheets and pillows
- Comforter
- Mirrors
- Reading lamp
- Calendar
- Organizational tools
Box 3
This box will include your clothing and personal hygiene products:
- Seasonal clothing
- Laundry detergent
- Shoes
- Accessories
- Toiletries
- Makeup
Box 4
Fill this box with the creature comforts of home as well as entertainment items:
- Wall decor
- Decorative pillows and throws
- Area rug
- Games
- Speakers
- Books, e-readers
Box 5
This is where you can place overflow from the other four boxes in addition to the following:
- Kitchen supplies and dishware (pots, pans, utensils, can opener, etc.)
- Storage containers
- Emergency equipment (flashlight, batteries, etc.)
Again, be sure to check with your college as to what they supply in terms of kitchen items in their rooms. Some provide cookware; others require you to bring your own. Ask about prohibited items as well, such as griddles, hot plates and toaster ovens.
Plan Ahead
In conclusion, it’s important to plan ahead by hiring movers who will provide you with the supplies and guidance you need prior to your campus move. Many offer related services that can come in handy, such as storage and packing.
Contact Around the Clock Moving and Storage
When you have a Dallas/Fort Worth college move coming up, rely on the pros at Around the Clock Moving and Storage to get you there. Contact us at 469-853-0045 for a free quote to kick start your relocation.
