Guide For Moving Homes As A Student

Moving homes can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially for university students. Whether you're relocating to a new campus, moving into a dormitory, or transitioning to an off-campus apartment, proper planning and organisation are key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free move.  

1. Finding a New Place

When moving homes, thorough research is crucial. Begin by exploring different home-shifting options, such as dormitories, apartments, or shared housing. Consider factors like location, budget, and amenities that align with your preferences and needs. Use student accommodation websites and local listings to gather information and compare offerings. If possible, engage with current residents or roommates to gain insights before shifting homes. By carefully evaluating your choices and taking the time to make an informed decision, you'll secure a suitable home that complements your student lifestyle.

2. Set Up Utilities and Services

Nobody wants to move into a place with no electricity or internet. Getting a head start on your utilities and services is the best way to ensure quick and convenient home-shifting, so this is an absolute must. Updating all your utilities and services can take much time out of your day – on average, about 15 hours. We get it - shifting homes it’s daunting, but some planning goes a long way. To do this, you can use a change of address service like SlothMove.

3. Moving Day Checklist

Moving demand a dorm move-in checklist of essentials. Pack snacks, water, and vital documents to fuel and streamline the home-shifting process. Stress the significance of mapping out item placements in your new abode for efficient unpacking. A well-organized moving day simplifies the transition, setting the stage for a seamless adjustment when shifting homes. Having basic tools like a utility knife, tape, and screwdrivers can prove invaluable for quick fixes and assembly. With these moving day essentials and a thoughtful plan, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of moving homes as a student.

4. Start Early, Stay Calm

The key to successful home-shifting is giving yourself plenty of time. Don't leave everything to the last minute! Start planning and create a checklist of all the tasks you must accomplish when moving homes. For example, if you’re moving long-term or changing the address on your licence, check out the DVLA website for their turnaround to ensure you get your amended licence in time. Feeling a little stressed is okay, but take deep breaths and remind yourself that you've got this!

5. Coordinate with Roommates

If you're shifting homes with roommates, it's essential to coordinate and communicate with them. Talk about who's bringing what to avoid duplicating when moving homes. Discuss shared responsibilities like cleaning, groceries, and bills. A little teamwork and understanding go a long way in creating a harmonious living environment.

6. Explore Your New Neighbourhood

Before moving homes, take some time to explore your new neighbourhood. Find nearby amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation options. Familiarise yourself with the area to know where to go when needed. It'll make you feel more at ease in your new surroundings.

7. Watch Your Budget

Moving homes can be expensive, so it's crucial to budget wisely. Consider all the costs involved, such as security deposits, moving services, and initial grocery shopping. Keep track of your expenses and stick to your budget. You don't want to eat ramen noodles for a month because you overspent on home-shifting!

8. Keep Your Important Documents Safe

When moving homes, remember to gather all your important documents, like your ID, insurance papers, and university-related paperwork. Please keep them in a secure folder or envelope and have digital copies as backups. You never know when you might need them, so better to be safe than sorry!

9. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Be bold about asking for help from friends, family, or even home-shifting services for moving if needed. Having an extra pair of hands can make the process faster and more enjoyable. And remember, your university's student services department supports you, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

10. Cut Corners, But Think Smart

It’s important to make things as easy for yourself when moving homes. Of course, you don’t want to miss anything while home-shifting, so plenty of online resources are available to help make your move a breeze. SlothMove is an online service that will take all this stress off your hands by updating your utilities and providers on your behalf. It’s a simple, easy-to-use service with an entire team dedicated to making your move as convenient as possible.

11. Unpacking and Organising

Unpacking and organising when moving homes can feel daunting, but a systematic approach can ease the home-shifting process. Begin by prioritising essential items, such as bedding and kitchen supplies, to create an immediate sense of comfort. Utilise vertical storage options like shelves or hooks to save floor space and keep things organised. Finally, take your time to envision the layout that suits your daily activities and routines.

12. Establishing a Routine

After moving homes, crafting a well-balanced daily routine is paramount for your success as a student in a new environment. Balancing your academic commitments, social interactions, and self-care is essential. Create a schedule that allows dedicated time for studying, engaging with peers, and nurturing your well-being. Prioritise effective time management to optimise your productivity and ensure you have ample moments for relaxation. By establishing a structured routine, you'll confidently navigate your student life and achieve a harmonious blend of responsibilities and enjoyment.

Moving homes as a university student is a big step, but with these tips, you'll be well-prepared for the adventure ahead. Stay organised, stay positive, and before you know it, you'll settle into your new place, ready to embrace all the opportunities and excitement that come with university life. Best of luck with home-shifting!