A Helpful Checklist for Student Moves: Staying Organised in 2026

Moving as a student can feel overwhelming, but a clear checklist helps you stay organised and in control. Breaking the process into manageable steps reduces stress and makes settling into your new place far easier.

This guide walks through a practical timeline — from two months before moving day through your first week in your new accommodation — covering packing, transport planning, utilities, and essential admin.

6–8 Weeks Before You Move

Starting early gives you time to plan properly and avoid last-minute pressure.

Arrange your moving help: For student moves and smaller loads, flexible transport with a driver and van is often practical. Ask about insurance cover and what it includes.

• Goods in Transit cover: Check limits per item and overall value.
• Liability protection: Confirm how accidental damage is handled.
• Excess charges: Understand any costs you may need to pay if a claim is made.

Declutter thoroughly: Sort what you’ll take, donate, recycle, or discard. Moving fewer items saves time, effort, and space.

Create a move folder: Keep documents, confirmations, receipts, and contacts together — either digitally or on paper.

4 Weeks Before You Move

As moving day approaches, focus on notifications and service arrangements.

Set up mail redirection: Helps ensure important post isn’t missed.

Plan internet access: Arrange broadband installation or transfers early.

Update your TV licence address: This can be done online.

Notify utility providers: Share your moving date to close or transfer accounts.

2 Weeks Before You Move

This is the ideal time to focus on packing and logistics.

Check access and parking: Arrange permits if needed at either address.

Pack non-essentials: Label boxes clearly with room names and contents.

Confirm timings: Check any building rules or move-in restrictions.

The Final Week

Focus on essentials and final preparations.

Use up frozen and perishable food.

Prepare an essentials box: Include toiletries, chargers, snacks, documents, and basic kitchen items.

Share final access details: Parking, entry codes, and contact numbers.

Take meter readings: Photograph gas, electricity, and water meters.

Moving Day

Staying calm and organised helps everything run smoothly.

Record meter readings at both addresses.

Walk through the property: Point out fragile items and note existing damage.

Keep valuables with you: Passports, laptops, and important documents.

Final room check: Make sure nothing is left behind.

Admin Tasks During Your First Week

Completing these early helps you settle in without loose ends.

Government & civic updates

• Update your voting registration
• Change address details with the DVLA
• Set up or close council tax accounts

Healthcare

• Register with a local GP, dentist, or other providers

Banks, insurance, and subscriptions

• Update your address for financial accounts and deliveries

Common Questions About Student Moves

What is a man and van service?

It’s a flexible transport option suited to smaller moves, such as student flats, single rooms, or a few larger items.

When should I start packing?

Packing non-essentials around two to three weeks before moving day helps spread the workload.

Where can I find free boxes?

Supermarkets, local shops, and community groups often have spare boxes available.

How do I dispose of unwanted furniture?

Options include council bulky waste services, charity donations, or local resale and giveaway platforms.