Moving to Manchester for university requires planning 2-3 months ahead. Secure accommodation after your firm choice, apply for student finance in May/June to receive your award by July/August so funds arrive by term start. Book your man and van 3-4 weeks early to avoid peak September prices. Buy heavy items like duvets and kitchen essentials locally - bring only laptop, documents, and medication from home. This guide covers accommodation areas, costs, and settling tasks.
2025 Student Moving Guide: Your step-by-step route from packing to your first week in Manchester
Moving to Manchester for university is exciting, but the logistics can be overwhelming. From packing to navigating a new city, it's easy to lose track of what matters. This guide is your step-by-step plan, covering everything from pre-move preparation to settling in during your first week. It's built to be practical, student-friendly, and helpful—guiding you smoothly into your new life in Manchester.
The Pre-Move Blueprint – Your Manchester Checklist
Before Results Day
If you can, attend open days to view accommodation in person or use online tours to get familiar. University deadlines often determine when you can secure guaranteed housing, usually after confirming your university choice. Delaying this step may limit your options or chances of securing a place.
Student finance: Apply for your financial support early. Around July or August, check that your application is approved and be aware of payment timings, which often align with enrolment dates. Confirm your bank details are accurate to ensure smooth payments.
Tip: Some halls offer incentives for participating in open days, such as discounts for sharing your room's setup.
After You Get Your Offers
With offers confirmed, focus on the essentials to prepare effectively.
Accommodation paperwork: Whether in halls or private rental, complete and return your contract promptly, settle deposits, and note your move-in schedule. Keep copies of all documents safe.
Create a moving budget: Consider more than just transport costs. Include packing materials, moving help, any storage fees, and a small budget for your arrival essentials like groceries and cleaning supplies. Organising early helps you concentrate on settling in without last-minute worries.
One Month Out: Decluttering and Logistics
Now is the time to start organising practical aspects of your move.
What to Bring vs What to Buy
Student spaces tend to be limited. To keep things manageable, bring only the essentials and plan to purchase heavier or bulkier items locally.
| Category | Bring with you | Buy in Manchester |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | Laptop, phone, important documents, medication | Toiletries, cleaning supplies, food basics |
| Bedroom | Sentimental items, photos, favourite books, pillows | Duvet, new bedding, coat hangers |
| Kitchen | Favourite mug, cutlery, plates | Kettle, toaster (may already be provided) |
| Clothing | Seasonal clothes suitable for Manchester's weather | Additional everyday wear as needed |
Booking Your Move Early
The last two weeks of September see high demand for moving help. To avoid inconvenience, arrange your Manchester man and van service at least 3-4 weeks ahead. Early planning makes the move less stressful.
Manchester Student Accommodation – Areas and Advice
Your accommodation choice influences your university experience. Key student areas include:
Fallowfield
Atmosphere: A lively and traditional student district.
Average rent: £110–£140 per person per week.
Transport: Regular buses (142/143 'Magic Bus') connect to campus directly.
Withington
Atmosphere: Quieter than Fallowfield, with independent shops and pubs.
Average rent: £115–£145 per person per week.
Transport: Shares the Oxford Road bus corridor.
Oxford Road Corridor
Atmosphere: Central to campus life, convenient for lectures at the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.
Average rent: £140–£200+ per person per week, often including bills.
City Centre & Northern Quarter
Atmosphere: Creative and central, popular among students at BIMM.
Average rent: Typically £170+ per person per week for bedsits and studios.
Moving from Halls to a Shared Rental
Many students move from halls to shared houses in their second year. Booking a student man and van in Manchester helps make this move easier and more manageable.
Student Moving and Storage in Manchester
Benefits of a Man and Van for Students
Practical: Pay only for the space and time used.
Right scale: Suitable for typical student loads such as boxes, suitcases, desks, and small furniture.
Assistance included: Drivers help with loading and unloading.
Options for Student Moves
| Service Type | Typical Cost | Convenience | Speed | right suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Man and Van | £–££ | High (help with lifting) | Quick | Student moves, hall-to-shared flat moves |
| DIY (car) | £ | Low (multiple trips, self-loading) | Slower | Very small moves locally |
Choosing a Trustworthy Moving Service
Reviews: Seek feedback from trusted independent review sources.
Insurance provided: Services include Goods in Transit insurance for belongings.
Clear pricing: Instant online pricing help you understand costs upfront.
Book ahead: Securing your preferred date early helps ensure availability during busy periods.
Storage Solutions for Students
For summer breaks or study abroad years, secure storage facilities offer flexible contracts and can safely hold your items until you return.
Your First Week in Manchester
Collect keys and inspect: Get your keys, complete a property inventory, and document any pre-existing issues.
Register with a GP: University of Manchester students often use Hawthorn Medical Centre.
Banking: Many banks offer student features during Freshers' Week.
Shopping: Nearby supermarkets include Asda Hulme and Aldi/Lidl in Fallowfield for essentials.
International students: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit if applicable.
Explore campus: Familiarise yourself with lecture theatres, libraries, and student facilities by walking or using local buses.
Living Student Life in Manchester
Finding Relaxing Spaces
Parks like Brunswick Park offer places to unwind, study, or socialise and are central to student life at universities in Manchester.
Getting Around
Bus: Stagecoach buses 142/143 'Magic Bus' routes run frequently and offer value with student passes.
Tram: Metrolink services cover locations including MediaCityUK and Chorlton.
Walking and cycling: The compact city centre and campuses make these popular options.
Enjoying Manchester
Local culture: Enjoy the Northern Quarter's independent shops, markets, and cafes.
Football culture: Manchester's football teams bring vibrancy to the city, and many social spots celebrate the sport.
Cultural sites: Visit landmarks like John Rylands Library, the Whitworth, Manchester Museum, and the Science and Industry Museum, which have free entry.
Welcome to Manchester
Planning your move in steps makes the process manageable and supports settling in without unnecessary stress or excess baggage.
You've organised your preparations—when ready, consider arranging a trusted Manchester man and van service with a team available most days to assist. Get a free price online in minutes and begin your student journey confidently.
