Moving to College

When getting ready for college, “moving in” can become one of those oversights that you don’t think about for the last minute. Normally, you’d just take whatever you can fit in your beat-up jalopy of a vehicle, because what you can fit in your car is about how much you’re really going to need. But if you’re one of those people who absolutely has to take everything, then Yuma Arizona News has a list for ya:

  • Select the Truck That Fits Your Needs. In other words, find the smallest truck possible. Really. You’re moving your room, not your house.
  • Reserve Now. So I was trying to get in an interview with some admissions officers and it turned out they’re usually busy this time of year. Go figure. The same logic applies when renting a truck, because just about every other student in your neighborhood is trying to do the same thing you are.
  • Make Sure You Have the Essentials. This one’s mostly common sense Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and a dolly are the supplies you’ll need to pack everything. And to give extra support for the boxes, reinforce the bottoms with extra tape.
  • Pack it Right. Load the heaviest items on the truck first. And remember to never lift with your back when loading boxes. Always keep your back straight and lift with your knees- or is it bend at your knees and lift with your legs? Whatever.
  • Driver Safety and Security. Trucks are very different from traditional commuter vehicles since they’re both taller and heavier. They carry a lot more momentum, so they require more stopping distance than cars. If possible, you may want to practice driving one before you take it on your trip. Also, be sure to get yourself a AAA membership, just in case you do get in an accident.
  • Buddy Up. This is assuming that one or two of you aren’t cannibals and won’t end up eating each other on the way there. I honestly don’t know why a friend would agree to traveling with you for 100+ miles, unless of course if you took your friend hostage and forced them to pay for gas and rental costs. This actually works great if both you and your friend are going to the same college, that way you don’t have to kill any friends- I mean, friendships- along the way.
  • Use Discounts. Some moving companies offer discounts for those who have memberships for roadside assistance, such as AAA, so look out for those.
  • Make Sure Things Are in Easy Reach. I normally keep a backpack on me, that way I have everything on me, such as  important paperwork, credit cards, ID’s, an extra set of clothes, and the sort.