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Most Affordable Ways to Move to College

College student sitting on a bench and writing

Moving to college is an exciting time but getting all your stuff there can be a headache. From packing up your belongings and figuring out how to transport them, the process can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive. But have no fear, Collegeboxes is here!

Here at Collegeboxes we offer an affordable solution to move to college, ensuring maximum savings. In this article, we’ll explore some wallet-friendly ways to move to college.

Before the Move

Lay Out How Much You Can Move

How much you can move will depend on your budget. Outlining your budget will give you a much better idea of what you should and shouldn’t bring.

Access your Options

Shop around and make sure you pick a school that fits your style. List all your possible options, pros and cons, and costs to make sure you are giving yourself the best deal.

  • What do you want to study?
    • List all schools that excel in those studies
  • What financial aid is available?
    • See what your scholarship opportunities are
  • Where is your new school?
    • Consider transportation, distance from home, weather, environment and things to do around campus
  • What is your budget?
    • Many schools have expected payment calculators to help you figure out what you can realistically afford
  • Who else is going there?
    • Think about if you will know anyone there, it can be helpful when adjusting to a new environment

Affordable Moving Options for College Students

1. Use a Personal Vehicle

Another way to save money when moving to college is to load up your own vehicle or your family’s. For some situations this can be the most practical choice. You can even count on your loved ones to help make the process easier. It’s a popular option that many students choose. However, with increasing tuition prices for in-state students, and out-of-state options becoming more available, families are looking for other money-saving options.

2. Rent a Moving Truck or Trailer

If you’ve got too much stuff to put in a car, renting a moving truck or trailer is a smart and affordable option. Just make sure you pack everything like a pro to make the most of the space and avoid making too many trips.

U-Haul trailers are also a great local option for moving to college. U-Haul locations are practically everywhere so you can easily drop off your truck or trailer near campus. If you are expecting to move more than one room however, then go with a moving truck.

Pro Tip: If your vehicle does not have the space for all you’re taking to college, have a U-Haul Trailer Hitch installed on your vehicle and rent a U-Haul Trailer. This could save you money every summer during move-out and move-in. Hitches also give you the option to use bike racks, cargo carriers, and a Superbumper.

3. Move with Another Student

Moving with another student is hands down one of the most cost-effective and fun ways to move to college. It can be a challenge to coordinate, but it’s totally worth it. You get to split the expenses and make new friends. Talk about a win-win!

To find someone to carpool with, hop onto social media or college forums to find fellow classmates heading your way.

4. Shipping Your Stuff to Campus

As another option, you can use standard shipping services like UPS, FedEx, or USPS to ship your stuff to campus or your apartment. The downside is that most campus mailrooms won’t accept packages until students show up on campus. Some colleges do offer shipping services, but boxes are not provided, and off campus moves are not permitted. Major bummer, right? Well, that’s why Collegeboxes by U-Haul created a genius solution: Ship to School service.

Here’s how it works: You pack up your stuff, schedule a pickup through your Collegeboxes account, and FedEx will come to grab your stuff and ship it to a U-Haul location near campus. Your things will be safe in storage until the delivery day you choose when Collegeboxes will deliver your belongings directly to your dorm room.

University student holding up a Collegeboxes college shipping box

What Makes Collegeboxes the Best for College Shipping

As the leading Student Storage and Shipping provider, Collegeboxes has the network and services to make college moving easier for students and parents. Enjoy more of the college welcoming experience with Collegeboxes!

Benefits of Ship to School:

  • You Choose When You Want Your Items Picked Up and Shipped
  • Plan now, Pay Later with FREE Registration
  • Discounted Shipping Rates and FREE $100 Insurance Per Box
  • Track & Manage Everything from Your Account with Customer Support Via Chat, Text, Email, and Phone
  • Delivery To Your Dorm Room or Apartment