Preparing for College Move-In

Preparing for your college move-in as a freshman is stressful. You may be thinking “What should I take to school? What kind of essentials do I need for dorm room living?” This college shopping list will help you create a moving plan and make shopping easier. Depending on your needs, you can adjust the list and buy what works for you.

Do your housing research

If you need to know dimensions and sizes of your room and furniture, search the housing page of your college’s website for more information.  

Also, make sure you double check with your school about what items are and are not allowed. If you don’t, you will run the risk of bringing and relying on items that, in fact, aren’t allowed in your dorm room; items like space heater/ac unit, microwave, fridge, toaster, coffee pot/keurig, iron, and any other electric items that can cause a fire. Take extra precautions now to save you a potential headache situation later. 

Talk to a current student

Reaching out to current college students is also a good idea, because they can share tips and tricks from their own experiences. They may know certain items that are “must-haves” and some items that are a “don’t bother.” Ultimately, this saves both time and hassle if you know what you need and don’t need beforehand. It’s also a great idea if you are limited on space!

Now that the policies are out the way, on to the fun stuff!!!  First thing first, know how big your room is and what’s included. I mean, who doesn’t love free stuff (just make sure you return them in the condition received).  Each dorm will come with the following items:

• Twin XL Bed & Mattress
• Chair
• Desk
• Bookshelf
• Closet
• Trash & Recycle Bins

Are you ready to spend some money? Ok, well we are!

Checklist of must-haves for your dorm room:

• Bedding: Extra-long twin sheets, blankets, pillows, pillow cases, memory foam topper

• Bath/hand towels, washcloths, shower caddy, shampoo, body wash, toothbrush
• Alarm clock
• Bath wrap, shower shoes
• Plates, cups, mugs, silverware, food storage containers
• Hangers
• Rug
• Water filter
• Desk lamp/light bulbs (check dorm restrictions)
• Headphones
• First aid kit
• Rain boots and umbrella
• Power strip (UL approved, with surge protector), desk fan
• Bike helmet and lock
• Decorations
• Laundry Items: Basket, detergent, softener, dryer sheets, laundry bag
• Storage containers

Plan your move

Once you have purchased your items, you may wonder “How am I going to get everything to my dorm?” A standard college move-in is difficult, and can even harder in dorms that don’t have elevators. Collegeboxes can move all of your belongings to your school with their ship to school program. Then you’ll have the easy option of moving to school by airplane. For more information on how the shipping process works, visit the Collegeboxes website.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, here’s one last reminder: take time to enjoy college. Be sure to take lots of pictures to capture the memories. Before you know it you’ll be using Collegeboxes for your final move out!

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