Moving out of student halls or a shared house is different from a family move. You likely have less furniture, more flexibility, and a tighter budget. But the same principles apply: plan ahead, pack smart, and book transport early.
This guide covers everything a UK student needs to know about end-of-term moves.
When Do Students Move Out?
| Term | Typical Move-Out Period |
|---|---|
| Christmas | Mid-December |
| Easter | Late March to early April |
| Summer (main) | Late May to end of June |
| Graduation | June to July |
The summer move-out is the busiest. Book transport 2 to 4 weeks ahead to get your preferred slot.
Step 1: Decide What to Keep
Before packing, sort everything into four piles:
- Keep: items going to next year's accommodation or home
- Sell: textbooks, furniture, electronics
- Donate: clothes, kitchenware, unopened food
- Bin: broken items, rubbish
Every item you remove saves money and effort.
Step 2: Plan Where Your Stuff Goes
Options:
- Take everything home
- Store over summer in a storage unit
- Move directly to next year's accommodation
- Ship items abroad (for international students)
Summer storage is often cheaper than moving everything home and back.
Step 3: Book Transport Early
Options for students:
- Man and van for small loads
- Student removals service
- Share a van with housemates to split costs
Book 2 to 4 weeks in advance. Late June is the busiest period and slots fill up fast.
Step 4: Pack Smart
What You Need
- Small and medium boxes (books are heavy)
- Bin bags for clothes
- Tape
- Marker pen
- Bubble wrap for electronics
Packing Tips
- Pack books in small boxes (max 15kg)
- Use laundry baskets or suitcases for clothes
- Wrap electronics in bubble wrap
- Label each box with your name and contents
- Photograph your electronics setup before unplugging
Step 5: Clean Your Room
Your deposit depends on this. Most student contracts require:
- Cleaning the room to the same condition as when you moved in
- Removing all personal items
- Emptying bins and recycling
- Hoovering floors
- Cleaning shared areas (kitchen, bathroom)
Take photos of the cleaned room for your records.
Step 6: Return Keys and Get Deposit Back
- Return keys by the deadline (usually 10am or 12pm on the last day)
- Get a receipt for returned keys
- Confirm your forwarding address for the deposit
- Follow up if the deposit is not returned within 10 days
In the UK, deposits must be held in a government-approved protection scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS).
Student Move Costs
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Man and van (single room) | GBP 60 to GBP 150 |
| Man and van (shared house) | GBP 120 to GBP 250 |
| Student removals service | GBP 150 to GBP 350 |
| Storage (summer, 25 sq ft per month) | GBP 60 to GBP 150 |
Share costs with housemates to bring prices down.
How to Save Money as a Student
- Share a van with housemates
- Book mid-week, mid-month
- Pack yourself
- Sell items you no longer need
- Use student storage (often cheaper than regular self storage)
- Book early for the best slots
Summer Storage: What to Store
- Winter clothes and bedding
- Books and course materials
- Kitchen equipment
- Electronics
- Bikes (if you have space)
Do not store food, plants, or anything perishable.
International Students
If you are returning home for summer:
- Store items in the UK rather than shipping home
- Check visa rules on leaving and re-entering the UK
- Keep university documents safe
- Arrange storage before you fly
See our student moves service for options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a student move cost?
A single-room move costs GBP 60 to GBP 150. A shared house costs GBP 120 to GBP 250. Storage adds GBP 60 to GBP 150 per month.
Can I store my stuff over summer?
Yes. Many companies offer student storage at reduced rates. Book 2 to 3 weeks before the end of term.
When should I book a student removal?
Book 2 to 4 weeks ahead. Late June is the busiest period.
What happens to my deposit?
It must be returned within 10 days of moving out, provided you left the room in good condition. If not, chase the landlord or agent in writing.
Can I move things home by train?
Only small items. For anything larger, a man and van is usually cheaper than shipping by courier.
Student Moves Across London and the UK
We help students move cheaply and safely. Call 07459 180023 or request a free quote.
Written by the Vano Removals team. We provide student moves, storage, and man and van services across London and the UK.
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