This is it — you’ve found your place, paid the lease and signed the papers. Now it’s time to move in. Don’t be fooled, though — moving in is perhaps the most daunting task you’ll have to tackle before you settle into your new home. Luckily, we’ve provided a few easy steps to help reduce the stress!

MOVING IN:

1. Pack lightly and intelligently

Let’s be realistic: You’re here for college, not necessarily living here forever. Do you really need that TV and all those gaming consoles you’ve had back at home for your entire life? Probably not. There can’t be enough said for the importance of packing lightly. Remember why you’re there in the first place, and be sure to make packing those textbooks, toiletries, clothes and important items of furniture your first priority.

2. Communicate

Stay in touch with your roommates! The last thing anyone wants is to end up with three tables and no chairs. Create a communal checklist with your future housemates about who’s bringing what and how it will get there. To transport your items, numerous moving services are available in the Bay Area. College Storage & Student Services, for instance, is just one company that offers full-service storage, study-abroad and short-term storage, shipping and retail-to-school delivery.

 3. Stay organized

Organization is key! Do some planning before the actual move happens. Follow up with your checklists, and make sure you have everything you’ll need before you move in. Pack boxes, and label them accordingly to keep everything in order. Additionally, don’t forget to make a list of damages in your apartment when you move in so you don’t get charged when you eventually move out.

SHIPPING OUT

Well, you’ve had some good times, but whether it’s a change of plans or graduation, it’s time to move out. So … where to begin? Amid the plethora of furniture, clothes, appliances and other miscellaneous accessories, something’s got to go.

1. Lighten the load

A good way to reduce your load is to pass on some of your bulkier items, such as furniture and appliances, to others. Find a friend who will be moving into an apartment or house. Try to sell anything else you might have on Craigslist or eBay. There’s always a sizable audience looking for apartment necessities, especially in college towns.

2. Pack logically

Above all, when packing your things, remember to always use common sense. Heavier items go in the bottom, lighter things on top. Don’t pack your books or other heavy items in large boxes that will be difficult to carry out of your building.

3. Organize!

Again, the importance of good organization can never be stressed enough. Planning ahead will make a significant difference in the stress level and ease of your move.