Cheapest ways to move to college

Moving to college is one of the most exciting milestones in a student’s life—but it can also be expensive. From transportation to packing materials and dorm essentials, the costs add up faster than most families expect. The good news? There are plenty of smart and affordable ways to move to college without burning through your budget.

In this guide, we’ll break down the cheapest ways to move to college, how to prepare, and how to avoid common moving mistakes so you start your semester stress-free and financially comfortable.

Top 12 Cheapest Ways to Move to College

1. Start Planning Early

Planning ahead is the biggest money-saver when moving to college. Early preparation helps you compare prices, book transportation on time, and avoid last-minute rush fees. Students who begin preparing 4–8 weeks before their move typically spend 25–40% less than those who wait until the last week.

2. Only Take the Essentials

Dorm rooms are small and storage is limited. Packing light helps keep transportation costs down and makes the move easier.

Bring only what you truly need for the first month—clothes, bedding, toiletries, and basic school supplies. You can always buy additional items once you know what fits in your room and what you will actually use.

3. Use Shared Transportation

One of the best ways to save is to share travel costs with a friend or classmate who is moving to the same city or college.

Carpooling reduces gas expenses and gives you more space for luggage when multiple people share the load. If you’re traveling by bus or train, booking group tickets also brings significant discounts.

4. Ship Items Instead of Moving Everything

Depending on distance, shipping boxes can be cheaper than renting a large vehicle. USPS, UPS, and FedEx offer discounted student rates during back-to-school season.

Ship lighter items like clothing, books, or small electronics. Avoid shipping bulky or fragile items—they cost more and are harder to insure.

5. Buy Dorm Essentials After You Arrive

Instead of packing a whole car full of new items, buy dorm essentials once you reach campus.

Major retailers near college towns often have back-to-school sales, bundle deals, or pickup discounts. This saves money and reduces the amount of stuff you need to move.

6. Look for Used Furniture and Supplies

College students move in and out every semester, which means there’s always used furniture available for cheap—or even free.

Check:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• Local student groups
• Campus bulletin boards
• Many students give away or sell $200+ items for under $20 just to clear space before leaving.

7. Rent a Small Trailer Instead of a Moving Truck

If you already have a vehicle, renting a small trailer is far cheaper than renting a full moving truck.

Trailers cost 50–70% less, and they’re perfect for transporting boxes, small furniture, or dorm essentials. This option works especially well for short and medium-distance moves.

8. Take Advantage of Student Moving Discounts

Many moving companies and transportation services offer student discounts during August and early September.

Discounts can apply to:

• Truck rentals
• Storage units
• Shipping services
• Moving companies
• Using your student ID can save you up to 15–30% depending on the provider.

9. Use Free or Low-Cost Packing Materials

Instead of buying expensive packing supplies, look around for free alternatives.

You can find sturdy boxes at:

• Grocery stores
• Bookstores
• Hardware stores
• Campus housing offices
• Use towels, blankets, and hoodie pockets instead of bubble wrap—perfect for protecting fragile items at zero cost.

10. Store Off-Season Items Near Campus

If you don’t need winter clothing, sports equipment, or extra bedding right away, consider renting a mini storage locker near campus.

This prevents you from paying higher moving costs to transport everything at once. Many student storage facilities offer semester-based pricing.

11. Ask Your College About Move-In Day Support

Many colleges provide:

• Free dollies
• Move-in volunteers
• Free shuttles
• Assistance programs
• Using campus resources saves money and makes your move much easier.

12. Combine Moving Options to Save More

Most students save the most when they mix and match moving strategies rather than relying on just one.

For example:

• Ship clothes
• Carpool with a friend
• Buy dorm supplies after arriving
• Use free packing materials
• This combined approach can cut moving costs by up to 50%.

How VanLinesMove Helps Students Save Money?

VanLinesMove makes moving to college easier and more affordable by connecting you with reliable, budget-friendly movers nationwide.

Here’s how we help:

✔ Compare movers instantly

Get free quotes from verified, licensed movers to find the best price.

✔ Customized pricing for students

Choose options based on dorm size, distance, and your budget.

✔ Small-load & mini-move options

Perfect for students who have minimal items.

✔ Transparent, no-surprise pricing

We show all fees upfront so you avoid hidden costs.

✔ Storage and shipping options

Save money by combining moving, shipping, and short-term storage.

✔ Support 24/7

We’re available whenever you need help before and after your move.

Conclusion

Moving to college doesn’t have to be stressful—or expensive. By planning early, packing light, sharing transportation, and taking advantage of discounts, students can significantly reduce their moving costs. Combine these budget-friendly strategies with VanLinesMove’s transparent moving options to enjoy a smooth, affordable move-in experience.

FAQs

1. What is the cheapest way to move to college?

The cheapest options include carpooling, shipping only necessary items, buying dorm essentials after arrival, and using free packing materials.

2. Should I rent a moving truck for college?

A full moving truck is usually unnecessary unless you’re bringing furniture. Most students can use a small trailer, car, or shipping service.

3. When should I start planning my move to college?

Start 4–8 weeks in advance to get the best prices on transportation and supplies.

4. Can I ship all my dorm items?

You can ship most items, but avoid bulky or fragile objects as they cost more and are harder to insure.

5. How can VanLinesMove help me move affordably?

We help you compare multiple mover quotes, find student-friendly pricing, and choose affordable small-load moving options.