The Guide to Moving Out of Student Accommodation
6 April 2026By Rob Slade, Staff writer at Unite Students
Moving out of student accommodation can feel overwhelming - especially when you realise just how much stuff you’ve accumulated over the year😳
From packing and cleaning to returning keys and moving your belongings, there’s a lot to think about. Whether you’re graduating or heading into your next academic year, summer is peak move‑out season for students.
To help make the process smoother, we’ve teamed up with LOVESPACE, a student self‑storage company offering storage, packing and shipping solutions across the UK.
Their storage experts have put together this practical guide, covering everything you need to do before move‑out day, on the day itself, and after you leave - with tips to save time, reduce stress and avoid last‑minute panic.
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Before You Move Out
Gather Packing Materials Early 📦
You’ll need sturdy cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape and scissors. Avoid reusing worn or damaged boxes, as they may not protect your belongings properly in transit.
To make things easier, you can purchase professional packing materials directly from LOVESPACE, ensuring everything arrives safely at your next destination.
Start Packing in Advance ⏳
Leaving packing until the last minute is one of the biggest causes of move‑out stress. Start early and set manageable goals - for example, packing one or two boxes per week.
This steady approach helps you stay organised while still enjoying time with friends before the end of term. Make sure to label each box clearly so unpacking at your next home (or after storage) is quick and stress‑free.
Deep Clean Your Room ✨
Before leaving, give your room and shared areas a thorough clean. This includes:
Vacuuming and mopping floors
Wiping down surfaces
Cleaning sinks, hobs, ovens, microwaves and fridges
Scrubbing bathrooms, including toilets, showers and mirrors
A proper clean helps prepare the room for the next resident and avoids unnecessary issues when moving out.
Declutter and Donate What You Don’t Need ♻️
Moving out is the perfect opportunity to reduce clutter. Sort your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or dispose of.
Be realistic - only keep items you use regularly or that have sentimental value. All Unite Students properties have a British Heart Foundation donation point, so unwanted clothes, books and household items can be donated to a good cause.
Report Any Damage 🔨
If you notice any damage or faults in your room, report them via the Unite Students app as soon as possible. Logging issues early helps avoid confusion later and ensures maintenance teams are aware.
On Move‑Out Day
Move Your Belongings to the Ground Floor 🛗
On the day itself, gather all your boxes and belongings and move them to reception. Check in advance whether your accommodation offers trolleys - or ask friends to help reduce the number of trips.
It’s best to move items earlier in the day to avoid lift queues during peak times.
Want to skip this step? ✅
LOVESPACE offers doorstep collection, meaning drivers can collect your items directly from your room 🤩
Take All Rubbish Out 🗑️
Empty your bins and dispose of any remaining rubbish properly. This is a small step that makes a big difference during the final room check.
Return Your Keys 🔑
Before leaving, do one final check of your room and flat to make sure nothing is left behind. Once you’re ready, return all keys and access passes to reception on time.
After You’ve Moved Out
Get Your Belongings to Your New Space 🏠
Moving everything alone can be tough - don’t be afraid to ask for help. Alternatively, LOVESPACE can collect your belongings from your building and deliver them to your new address within two working days.
Whether you’re staying put or moving to another Unite Students property, the reception team can help you sort delivery dates for your new tenancy.
Need Storage Between Tenancies? 🔋
If there’s a gap between moving out and your next tenancy, LOVESPACE can store your belongings by the box for as long as you need and return them to any address in mainland UK.
For added convenience, you can also book storage units. LOVESPACE offers a professional packing service for storage unit customers, starting from £79, where movers will disassemble, wrap and pack your items on collection day.
Make Moving Out Simpler with LOVESPACE 📦
With storage, packing and delivery options tailored for students, LOVESPACE helps make moving out of student accommodation quicker and less stressful.
Unite Students residents can access exclusive LOVESPACE discounts throughout your tenancy - simply head to Perks in the Unite Students app to see current offers.
With the right planning and support, moving out doesn’t have to be complicated.
