4 College Dorm Move-In Tips

by Kevin Smith Author

Whether you're going to college for the first time or returning for another year, moving into a dorm can be a fun yet stressful process. It means you'll have a long to-do list, after all. But, even though it seems like an overwhelming responsibility, there are a few things you can do to make this task easier. Here are some tips to help you start off on the right foot.

Check the Paperwork

Before anything else, reread the housing guidelines the residence office sent you. Pay close attention to important information, including the move-in date, procedures, and check-in times. They may also provide all the forms you need to bring or sign.

Talk to Your Roommate

You'll likely have a roommate, so it's best to talk to them in advance. Coordinate when you're planning to move in,so both of you can transition one at a time. You'll find it hard to organize if you do it on the same day. Give each other enough time to get everything placedin the room.

You might be planning to haulappliances with you to make dorm life easier, but these things can be bulky. Discuss who'll bring large items like a mini-fridge or microwave before packing because you don't want to have two of these.

Pack Only the Essentials

The residence office will give students a checklist of all the essential items to bring. They should also provide a list of those that are already there to prevent you from overpacking. Rooms usually come with a dresser, mini-fridge, bed, mattress, and study table.

That said, when you're going to stay in a dorm, you won't have a lot of storage space, so consider bringing plastic bins. They're transparent, so you can easily see what's inside without opening them. They're also not too large, meaning you can place them under the bed or above the dresser. Some varieties are stackable, giving you another option to organize them.

Bring a Basic Set of Tools

To make your move-in day much more efficient and less stressful, bring a few basic tools with you. You'll find that having a hammer, screwdrivers, and pliers is helpful. You may need to install curtains and hooks or put together a small piece of furniture.

Starting your college life can be fun and exciting, so setting everything up in your dorm room shouldn't negatively affect that. By following these tips, moving in Athens, Ohio rental properties will be incredibly easy.