Student Storage: Expectation vs. Reality

It's that time of year again – summer storage time! College students are packing up their dorms and saying goodbye to the school year. But what happens when all of your possessions don't fit into your car or your plans include storing everything in a friend's garage? For many, having a plan for your summer storage is the answer — but even this can sometimes be tricky. Everyone expects a particular outcome when it comes to storing their college belongings. Unfortunately, it isn't always how things shake out in reality! To help ensure an easier transition this summer, we're here to compare expectations vs. realities.

Expectation #1: I can store everything in my parent's basement.

Reality: Sure, you CAN put your furniture, electronics, books, and the rest of your belongings in your parent's basement all summer, but should you? Probably not. Basements are notorious for being dark and attracting moisture which attracts mold, mildew, insects, and pests. It takes little time for items to become damaged due to poor storage conditions. It doesn't matter how well you've secured your belongings, they will find a way in and you could wind up spending more money to replace damaged items than the cost to properly store your items. 

Expectation #2: I can store everything in my friend's garage.

Reality: Once again, just because you CAN store your belongings somewhere doesn't mean you should. Free storage sounds enticing but usually comes with its own set of costs. A garage is not temperature controlled and can lead to some severe damage to items over time (more about climate control later!). In addition to the damage that can incur, safety can be a concern. It's impossible to know how secure your belongings are in someone else's garage. Theft, like damage, can't be foreseen, and unfortunately, your friend can't offer insurance on stolen or damaged goods which could cost you far more than you might have anticipated. 

Expectation #3: Moving out of my dorm will be easy.

Reality: I've lived in 5 different states over 20 years. I know a thing or two about moving. No matter how many times you've done it, how strong you might be, or how much preparation you've given yourself, moving is never easy. Even a tiny space can accumulate a lot of stuff. If you are moving alone, give yourself a week to pack and a full day to move out. And beg at least one friend to help because it's likely one person alone can't handle moving the oversized items. Have a plan, wear comfortable shoes, and have your sheets ready at your new place because you'll be ready to crash when it's over. 

Expectation #4: My stuff can easily fit in my car.

Reality: Unless you're a minimalist and you've rented all your furniture, your stuff won't easily fit in your car. Large furniture must be broken down, strapped to the roof, or left behind. If you're lucky enough to have furniture that all fits, plan at least a few trips to the storage unit or wherever you're keeping your items. 

Expectation #5: I'll ask my friends to help me move.

Reality: Expect your friends to move out on the same day too. Everyone will have loads of stuff to move out and little time to spare. If they aren't moving, chances are they're spending every waking moment studying for finals, and once finished, they, like you, won't be around for long. Expecting your college friends to help you move is unrealistic because they won't have the time. 

Expectation #6: My parents will help me move out.

Reality: Ok, most likely, your parents will help you out on this one if you ask, but there are a few things to really consider here. First, are your parents physically able to carry heavy items downstairs? Is that a burden you want to place on them? And second, think of the other factors–will they need to take off work to help? Will they need to catch a flight back and forth? Consider these things before expecting your parents to help you move. 

Expectation #7: I don't need to worry about climate control. It's only a few months!

Reality: You. Need. Climate. Control! I only realized the importance of climate control once I stored some items, including a laptop, in a box in my sister's garage one summer in New England. From May to August–only four months–was enough time to wreak havoc on my computer. The extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations that summer damaged the internal components leaving me with a broken computer in the fall. 

Expectation #8: I'll be able to pack up all my stuff quickly and easily. 

Reality: Not so fast! You'll need to determine which items you're storing and which are spending the summer with you. If you want to protect your belongings, you'll need to take the time to pack carefully, taking into consideration weight, size, and breakable items. Then you'll need to label everything. It takes some thoughtful planning and time. 

Expectation #9: Finding moving boxes is so easy.

Reality: This is only true if you start early. Wait, and you could be in trouble! Thousands of other college students are moving simultaneously as you and will be on the hunt for moving boxes. If you wait, you risk seeing empty shelves when you go to buy them. When you choose Storage Scholars, you never have to worry about running out of boxes (or packing supplies) because we provide you with as many as you need.  

Expectation #10. I'll have nothing to do during the last week of college, so I'll have plenty of time to move. 

Reality. Oh boy. We don't want to be the one to break it to you, but the last week of college before summer break? Utter chaos! Between packing up your belongings and studying (and taking) final exams, you'll already have a full load. Add in making summer plans, saying goodbye to friends, end-of-year social events, cleaning your room, and many other things we surely forgot. The point is you'll be busy and need to cram a lot in that final week. Plan and delegate the best you can. 

Expectation #11: Moving boxes are free.

Reality: Negative. Unless you get lucky on Facebook Marketplace or know someone moving, boxes aren't free, especially the sturdy ones needed for moving. You could call some local stores to see if any are available. At Storage Scholars, though, boxes are always free of charge and included when you sign up. You don't even have to travel far because they're available on Distribution Day on your campus. 

Expectation #12: I know how to drive a car so driving a moving truck will be easy.

Reality: If you have no experience driving a large truck, you'll want to bring someone with experience! Driving a moving truck takes some skill, and you want to avoid finding out the hard way whether or not you have said skill. Parking, merging, and even coming to a stop are all done a little differently than in your regular vehicle. While there's a good chance you can do it, don't assume that it's easy.

Expectation #13: I'll use the elevator to move my stuff in or out. 

Reality: If the dorm elevator works, you'll have to duke it out with hundreds of other families on the same weekend (or even on the same day!). Sometimes taking the stairs is quicker than waiting in line for the elevator. 

Expectation #14: Hiring movers in college is too expensive.

Reality: When you move your belongings into student storage for the summer by yourself, many hidden costs add up quickly. Do the math, and you could be spending far more than you would if you had just hired a company like Storage Scholars to do it all. We will pick up, store, and deliver it all back in the fall for much less than you might think! Check out our pricing calculator for an estimate. 

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Expectation #15: I will take care of my belongings better than any movers could.

Reality: You've got so much to worry about during that last week, something's got to give! At Storage Scholars, our movers are highly trained and know the campus like the back of their hand. They know where to go, what to do, and are experts in moving in storage. Many of our student movers are learning the ins and outs of the industry as interns and have spent months preparing for the big move out. They lead a team of students and are highly motivated to do a stellar job. Our highly rated Google Reviews will do all the talking!

Overall, student summer storage can be more daunting than expected, with several potential issues to avoid. However, with some preparation and smart storage choices, it doesn't have to be a chaotic experience. Luckily, Storage Scholars offers an effortless solution for all your concerns. We handle everything from lifting and moving to storing and delivering. Our services include providing boxes and ensuring the safety and security of your belongings throughout the summer. For more information on how we can simplify your last week of college, check out our website and FAQs. When ready, sign up to make your expectations a reality with our help!

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