Some may say finals week, AP testing, or leadership interviews are the most stressful parts of the year. However, moving out for boarders is often one of the most strenuous and time-consuming periods. 

Many boarders, especially freshmen, have no idea what to expect and how to prepare for this time of year. Here is the perfect guide you need to make moving out quick, convenient, and easy!  

1. Figure out your budget  

During every move-out process, Webb offers an option for boarders to make their experience easier. In the past years, there have been storage pods for the students to load up right before the summer begins. Many found these large-shared containers an accessible and easy alternative. However, this school year will be much different.  

Webb students have the choice to sign up for a new company called Dorm Room Movers where price will depend on the amount and size of each box. After packing up your room, the company will come in and take your items.  

Compared to the usual cost of the pods, the new system is significantly pricier and may not be affordable for everyone. Before you begin organizing and packing, figuring out the best option for storage is crucial. If the company that Webb is working with is not affordable for your situation, then finding support and discussing it with your dorm head, deans, Mr. Silva, or a trusted adult is highly advised. The other alternatives include having a local storage space that can be shared with friends or having a friend nearby hold your personal belongings.  

       2. Get all your supplies (boxes or containers, tape, sharpies) 

Once we reach the last week of school, everything comes hurling in like a storm. Students begin scrambling to find boxes, searching from dorm to dorm, and stealing tape the first chance they get.  

One of the best decisions you will make is getting your boxes early. Keep an eye out for any Webb runs to Lowe’s, Staples, or supply shops so you can get your boxes in time for move-out. Make sure you get more boxes than you think because you will be surprised by how much stuff you have in your room. If you decide to use Dorm Room Movers, you will especially need to tape your boxes well and label them with your name.  

       3. Deep clean your room 

It is very likely that your room has accumulated items you may have forgotten about. It is important you deep clean your room before you move out so you can figure out if you need to give away anything.  

One of the most important parts is your closet, especially as you are heading into summer. There is a good chance you will be storing a lot of winter clothes you will not use. Make sure you dedicate one day to going through everything in your room: your closet, miscellaneous items, etc.  

       4. Decide what you will bring home and separate those items from everything else in your room 

Being in a rush and feeling overwhelmed is never ideal. To make sure you do not find yourself in a place where you are rushing to get boxes packed up and your room cleaned, you must space out what you want to pack. It is obviously most convenient to do this as early as possible. You should be taking home the clothes and items that are collecting a bit of dust. 

“Consolidate the stuff in your room,” Frannie Hinch (‘25) said. “You can fix more in a box than you think.” 

Remember to think back to the last time you wore or used a certain item —if it has been a significant amount of time, reconsider if you want to keep it.  

       5. Remember not to create excessive waste! Donate, sell, recycle 

Last but certainly not least, do not waste! Every single year, Webbies find themselves throwing away items that are still in quality condition, and we see the trash cans fill up quickly. Do not be someone who throws away something they could easily donate or sell. 

Keep an eye out for fellow dorm residents who also may give away or sell items at discounted prices. You can find practically anything from clothes to shoes and even textbooks.  

Typically, in most dorms, there are designated boxes that are set up towards the end of the year for people to go through. Eventually, they are often brought to the nearest Goodwill and ensure that items we may no longer have space for can be of good use somewhere else! 

While moving out at Webb can be stressful, it does not have to be. During this emotional yet exciting time of the year, do yourself the favor of following our advice!