Tips for International Students Moving Interstate in the USA

Moving across states can be a daunting task, especially for international students who are managing their belongings and finances. Instead of hiring expensive moving companies that can cost you thousands of dollars, I successfully managed my move from Seattle to California using practical tips and cost-saving strategies. I only spent $300 by relying on shipping and some clever packing techniques!

What I Transported

During my move, I managed to transport two large 36-inch suitcases 🧳 and four big boxes weighing 300 pounds, measuring 27”×14”x15”. Here’s how I did it efficiently!

Essential Supplies to Buy

1. Vacuum Compression Bags: These are a necessity for saving space. You can find a pack of eight on Amazon for around $20. I recommend getting the disposable ones so you won’t feel upset letting them go after use.
2. Cardboard Boxes from Home Depot: Avoid buying boxes from the post office as they can be quite expensive. Instead, you can find large boxes for 2-3 dollars each at Home Depot.
3. 36-inch Suitcase: If you have valuable items to transport, consider checking them in rather than shipping them, as packages can get lost or damaged despite having insurance.

Organizing and Packing Your Belongings

Start by sorting through your items at home. Here’s a suggested categorization:

• Items to sell
• Items to give away
• Expensive clothes versus inexpensive clothes
• Beauty products: under 100 ml and over 100 ml
• Stationery, miscellaneous items, cookware (especially hard-to-find items in the US)
• Pet supplies
• Electronic devices including battery packs 🔋

Cost-Saving Packing Tips

1. Sell Unwanted Items: Don’t hesitate to sell items you no longer need. I quickly sold my rice cooker for $30 and a height-adjustable desk for $90. Aim to sell newer items at 40-50% of their price and lower-value items at a discounted rate.
2. Giveaway Items Wisely: I love stockpiling goods—like the dish soap I bought on Black Friday or unopened laundry detergents. They make perfect gifts for friends.
3. Organizing Clothes: Fold your expensive clothes and blankets neatly into vacuum bags to save space—they’ll be easy to iron later!
4. Handle Skincare Carefully: Wrap fragile skincare products in inexpensive thin blankets. Ensure that any items over 100ml are checked in.
5. Stationery and Pet Supplies: After packing up miscellaneous items, ship them off. Utilize services like Shapo to print shipping labels at reduced costs, saving money compared to official website prices.
6. Electronics with Batteries: Keep battery-operated devices in your carry-on luggage for inspection.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to underestimate the cost of moving, thinking you can just ask friends for help, only to find yourself paying for meals and outings that end up being hundreds of dollars. If you’re an international student moving in the USA 🇺🇸, I hope these tips help you settle in smoothly!

Happy moving! 🌍✈️