Moving out of a college apartment can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of responsibilities left to attend to in your last college days and the emotional farewells that accompany the end of an academic chapter. This is one of the reasons why ensuring a smooth and stress-free move-out process is crucial.
In order to make this whole process easier for you, AP Pro Moving has put together this college move out list, with a printable you can download and use in your next relocation endeavor. Make use of our expert tips and tricks to make your college apartment move run as smoothly as possible.
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From Collage Apartment Life to Next Chapter
Transitioning from college apartment life to the next chapter of your journey is an exciting time, and the stress that comes along with a moving process shouldn’t and cannot come in the way of this significant change. You need to keep in mind, though, that staying atop of your move is not as daunting as it may sound. With some tips and an ultimate college move out list, you can make this an enjoyable process after all.Â
As professional movers, AP Pro Moving understands the unique challenges that come with moving after college, from packing up years of accumulated belongings to navigating the logistics of relocating. Therefore, our goal is to make this transition run as smoothly as possible, so that you can also enjoy that little time left in your college apartment.
Our experts are here to help you compile your college move out list to make the process efficient and speedy, while we also offer you an array of moving services you can make use of for your upcoming college apartment move out.
How to move out of college apartment?
While moving into a college apartment may have provided you with a lot of freedom and memories to last you a lifetime, it might have also left you with extra belongings and tasks to take care of before your move out day. In order for your move to go as smoothly as possible, we will compile a college move out list that you can use to keep on track and atop of your move.
Check your lease and provide a notice
Before you start sorting things through and setting up your moving boxes, it might be useful to check and look back at your lease. This agreement, that you must have signed before moving in, will detail your terms and conditions for the school year, and stipulate when you need to give notice that you are moving out.
Usually, the notices are made 30 to 60 days in advance. Be mindful of this date, and even go ahead and create a reminder on your phone not to make it go over the due date, as failing to give proper notice can result in penalties. This may include the loss of your deposit, and/or additional fees.
Gather packing supplies
Gather all the packing items you will need in advance. Maybe even ask friends or family to collect some and keep them on the side for you to use when your move comes around. The items you will need can vary a little depending on your specific need. But generally they will include sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap and/or wrapping paper, labels, and markers.
Sort your belongings
Go through all the things you own and have accumulated in your college apartment through the years and sort them out. We recommend you separate them into categories, and even make piles out of them as you go. This step will help you see what you are dealing with and what needs to get packed for your move.
It will give you an idea of how many boxes you will need, if there are heavy items that need to be lifted, and think about how you are going to transport these items to your new place. Knowing this ahead of time will give you the opportunity to sit down and strategize, and decide if you’ll need the help of professional movers to relocate.
During this step, you can also check what AP Pro Moving has to offer and how we can make your moving experience better. Check our moving service and see what best suits and covers your relocation needs.
Discard, reuse, and donate
After sorting your belongings and strategizing, you will also have a clearer idea of what things to keep and what things you are going to leave behind. Also, you may decide to donate some of your items or decide you are going to give them a renewed purpose in your new space.
Remember to discard items that are broken or no longer usable. Only keep things that are still in good condition, and/or that you are going to be able to efficiently reuse in the new location. For items that you decide to donate, check the college website, to see if there is any donation program in place.
Begin the packing process and label
Begin the packing process early is our best advice, as this will ensure you have a stress-free move. Also, follow our college move out list and advice, so you can handle the move like a pro and still have free time to enjoy your last days at your college apartment. Pack off-season clothing and décor first, and then gradually move on to everyday items. Be sure to label each box clearly with its contents so it will be easiest to unpack later on.
Do all the pertinent fixes
As you are preparing to leave your college apartment, take some time to look around and see if there are any necessary repairs that need to be addressed. Keep on track and atop of these maintenance tasks so that you meet the terms and conditions stated in your lease agreement. In this way, you will make sure you get your security deposit back and that no fines are charged on your way out.
Clean your space one last time
Since you are parting ways with your college apartment, it will be a good idea to carry out a final cleanup of your space. This final cleanup is crucial for ensuring you get your security deposit back and leaving a good impression. Start by dusting and wiping down all surfaces, including countertops, shelves, and windowsills. Vacuum or sweep the floors thoroughly, and don’t forget to mop any hard surfaces.
Change your mailing and address
If at any point you had mail coming to your college apartment, make sure to change your mailing address. Begin by updating your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) either online or at your local post office to ensure your mail is forwarded to your new location. Next, inform your bank, credit card companies, and any subscription services of your new address to avoid missing important correspondence or payments. Don’t forget to update your address with your college or university, especially if you expect to receive transcripts, diplomas, and other important documents. Also, do not forget to cancel your utilities. You can check our article if you need advice on the subject.
Do a final walk through
Before you hand over your keys, it’s crucial to do a final walk-through of your college apartment. This step ensures that you haven’t left any personal belongings behind and that the apartment is in good condition for the next tenant. Start by checking every room, including closets, cabinets, and drawers. Pay attention to small items that are easy to overlook, such as chargers. Look under furniture and behind doors for any hidden items.
Turn in your keys
Once you are ready to move out, turn in your keys in order to fulfill your lease obligations and avoid any sort of penalties for not handing it in. Make sure you’ve made the last walk through of your place before moving on to this step.
Planning your move? Get expert help!
As a professional moving company, we are aware of the many challenges that may arise during a move. This is one of the many reasons why AP Pro Moving offers expert help and an array of moving services to make your relocation process go as smooth as possible.
We take care of your belongings and make sure they arrive safe and sound to your new place, saving you time and effort. Make the best of your last days in a college dorm or a college apartment and leave the rest in our hands. Call us at +1 (703) 757-6969 to know more about us and get a quote from our team.
FAQs
What is the importance of checking my lease and providing notice before moving out of a college apartment?
Checking your lease and providing notice is crucial as it outlines your move-out responsibilities and deadlines. Notices typically need to be given 30 to 60 days in advance. Failing to do so can result in penalties such as forfeiting your security deposit or incurring additional fees, making it essential to adhere to these terms.
How can I efficiently sort and pack my belongings when moving out of a college apartment?
Begin by categorizing your items into groups, such as keep, discard, and donate. This helps you see what you need to pack, how many boxes you’ll require, and whether professional movers are necessary. Label each box clearly to simplify the unpacking process. Start packing non-essential items first to ensure a stress-free move.
Why is a final cleanup important, and what should it include?
A final cleanup is essential to ensure you get your security deposit back and leave a good impression. Dust and wipe all surfaces, vacuum or sweep the floors, and mop any hard surfaces. This comprehensive cleaning helps meet the lease terms and prepares the apartment for the next tenant.
What steps should I take to change my mailing address when moving out of a college apartment?
Update your address with the USPS either online or at a local post office to forward your mail. Inform your bank, credit card companies, and subscription services of your new address. Additionally, update your address with your college or university to receive important documents like transcripts or diplomas.
