Moving into a dorm or apartment at the University of Richmond or VCU is exciting, but the logistics can be tricky. Move-in days are crowded, elevators fill up and parking near campus is tight. Here is how to plan a smooth college move, whether you are heading into a residence hall or your first off-campus apartment.
In this guide
Dorm move-in and move-out
- Check your school's move-in rules first. Both universities assign move-in times and set rules for unloading, carts and elevators. Read the housing office's instructions before you book help.
- Measure before you buy. Dorm rooms are small, so check the room dimensions and what furniture is already provided.
- Arrive with everything labeled. Mark each box with your name, building and room number so helpers can carry it straight in.
- Plan for move-out week too. Everyone leaves at once, so book help and trucks early.
Off-campus apartments near VCU and UR
Many VCU students live off campus in and around the Fan, the Museum District and Carytown, where older rowhouses and walk-up apartments mean narrow stairs and street parking. University of Richmond students living off campus are usually in the West End. Leases in Richmond turn over most often from May through August, so moving companies book up fast then.
If you are moving into a rowhouse, read how we handle narrow historic streets. Our VCU student housing guide compares the neighborhoods near campus.
What to pack (and what to leave)
- Bring the essentials first: bedding, towels, a desk lamp, toiletries, chargers and a small tool kit.
- Leave duplicates at home. Coordinate with roommates on shared items like a mini fridge, microwave or TV.
- Use bins and duffel bags. They stack well, carry easily and double as storage under a lofted bed.
- Keep documents with you. Carry your lease, ID, housing paperwork and any medications in a personal bag.
Summer storage and move-out
If you are coming back in the fall, a small storage unit near campus can be cheaper than moving everything home and back. We can load your storage unit at move-out and unload it into your new place in August. Clean your room or apartment and take photos before you hand back the keys. Our tips on getting your deposit back can help.
How Cavalier Moving helps students
- Full apartment moves across Richmond, with our local moving crews.
- Loading and unloading help for a rental truck, POD or storage unit you have already booked. See our moving labor service.
- Furniture assembly for beds, desks and shelving. See furniture assembly.
- Moves home or to a new city after graduation, anywhere in the continental U.S.
What a student move costs
Local moves are billed hourly with a two-hour minimum. In 2026, Cavalier Moving customers paid an average of $684 for a room-sized move and $830 for a studio apartment. See our full pricing guide for larger moves, or request a free estimate for your exact move.