Whether you are moving into university housing for the first time, or have made apartment switches in the past, this article provides tips on successfully moving in. There are ideas on how to prepare, looking ahead, and getting set in your new BYU-I housing.
American Avenue offers affordable BYU-Idaho housing near campus and a move-in guide for new students, giving a curated list to help students get a good start to their housing experience. Check out that guide and the following tips for moving in.
Preparing for Move-In
With so much to do when moving into an apartment, consider what you can do before the packing, lifting, and unpacking begins.
Starting off
Make sure you have your identification ready, you are clear on apartment check‑in times, and you have gone over move-in day instructions provided by your apartment complex. Each of these can help keep moving pressure down and support a smooth transition.
Apartment details
Confirming apartment details can also make a difference. Know your bed size and make sure you have properly fitting bedding, check on what furniture is provided to avoid doubling up or to know what else to bring, and be sure you are aware of what items are allowed and restricted.
What to wear
Check the weather. Knowing what the weather will be like when you are moving in can help you dress appropriately. Consider, too, the importance of wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes. You may also want to wear gloves while moving items into your student housing.
Coordinate with roommates
If possible, communicate with your future roommates before you each start moving in. If others will already be living in an apartment when you arrive, you may want to check on room availability, what you could supply for the apartment, or scheduling factors to be aware of.
Coordinating with roommates may also involve decisions about who will bring what, when individuals plan on arriving on move-in day, and any specific considerations that may affect apartment living moving forward.
Successful Packing
Moving can be hard, from decision-making to the physical actions involved in getting your items into and arranged in your apartment. Effective packing can pay off when it’s time to unload. Keep breakable items safe, use sturdy boxes, don’t make boxes too heavy to safely lift, and consider the use of carts to make moving more efficient. Following are other tips, too.
What to pack or pick up later
How far away your previous residence is, what you already have, and other factors can have an effect on what you bring with you when moving into an apartment and what you plan on getting later.
There are basics, like bedding, toiletries, and cleaning basics. Considerations include drawer organizers, a toolkit, and a surge protector.
Not packing too much
What not to pack is also a consideration. Not overpacking can simplify move-in day, add to overall apartment comfort, and make moving out of the apartment one day easier.
When deciding what to pack, take into account clothing options aligned to your semester(s) on campus, work responsibilities, and if you will be headed home at certain dates when clothing could be swapped out.
Strategies for packing
Strategizing about how to pack may alleviate potential stress as moving takes place. Are bins or boxes a better fit for your belongings? To help keep unpacking simple, what items should be packed together (ie, they will end up in the same area of the apartment)?
A labeling strategy may also be helpful. Boxes labeled with a certain color may contain fragile items, another color may indicate that the box should be opened first, etc.
Looking Ahead
There can be a lot of activity on and around campus and in and around apartments just before a semester begins. Plan for busy driving and shopping conditions on and near your move-in day.
Arrange to be at your apartment complex during check-in times and to have any questions ready to ask your manager concerning policies or accommodations.
Also, identify your options for new student orientation activities and look to verify your class and/or work schedule. These can help make way for a smooth start as the semester begins.
With all of the planning and moving, remember that move-in day can be accompanied by various emotions, including excitement, overwhelm, and nervousness. Family stress can also be a reality. Consider what is best for you and your family when it comes to move-in day.
Settling In
Take time to get your personal belongings arranged and talk with your roommates about plans for shared areas.
Are there kitchen items that all of you want to go in on? What are the rules for food, fridge space, and apartment-related tasks? Setting early expectations can pay off in reduced misunderstandings about quiet hours, guests, and what in the apartment is shared or not.
Keep in Mind
Here are other tips for a good semester start:
- Secure your apartment key and parking pass
- Make sure you can connect to Wi‑Fi
- Attend apartment and campus-related welcome meetings
- Meet your neighbors and join community events
- Benefit from the BYUI Student Living Apartment Plan
Affordable BYU-I Housing from American Avenue
American Avenue welcomes BYU-Idaho students and looks to provide a quality housing experience for each of our residents. Contact us about availability and to sign up for affordable BYU-I housing.