Mindful Move Out

Mindful Move Out

The 5 Steps

Moving out at the end of term? Staying on, but expecting new roommates? Let’s make the transition smooth, fair and sustainable—for everyone! 

Here are five steps to help you avoid last-minute moving chaos and to ensure that rooms and shared spaces are left as clean as you’d want them if you were moving in.

1. Plan

  • Start early to make your move out smooth. Spend some time each day packing and cleaning to avoid last-minute chaos, housekeeping fees, and—if you’re staying on in Year Round Housing—to be ready for new roommates moving in.
  • Figure out what you’ll keep, donate or recycle. If you have roommates, make a plan for those items that don’t seem to belong to anyone.
  • Go find your house or residence donation zone starting in early April, so you’re ready to start sorting and packing. Can’t find it? Ask your RA!
Our 2023 donation wish list!

At your donation zone, you’ll find bins for used books, electronic waste, used clothes, household items, non-perishable food, and menstrual products. Our 2023 donation wish list also includes:

  • Mini fridges
  • Countertop appliances: microwaves, kettles, toasters, coffee makers, and rice cookers
  • Kitchenware: dishware, tupperware, cooking utensils, cutlery, and pots and pans
  • Personal furniture and household items: shoe racks, bookshelves, mirrors, desk lamps, clothes hangers, etc.
  • Sports equipment
  • Electronics: routers, iClickers, printers, etc.
  • Clothing: outdoor gear (rain & hiking clothes, rain jackets & pants), rain & snow boots, warm jackets, etc.

We’re featuring these items to help keep them out of the waste stream and make sure they can find a new home at UBC or in the community. Circular economy for the win!

Please make sure items are clean and in good condition before donating. Thanks!

2. Sort

  • Keep, donate or recycle. Organize your belongings into these three categories for maximum efficiency—and sustainability!
  • Donate items at your house or residence donation zone starting in early April.
  • Remember, some items actually belong in the garbage: broken, soiled or ripped items that can’t be recycled and half-eaten or used foods that can’t be composted.
Pro tip: Check out some great de-cluttering tips at @GoSimplified on Instagram

3. Pack

  • Don’t leave it until the last minute!
  • Pack a little bit every day. You’ll be surprised how many things you can pack up in advance.
Pro tip: If you need to store any of your belongings for next year, you might want to consider a local mini-storage company. Look into a company that will best suit your needs. Whatever option you choose, be sure to book early—and ask if they offer student discounts!

4. Clean

  • It’s time to clean! Every space needs to be cleaned, whether you’re moving out or getting a new roommate.
  • Be thorough, respectful and leave nothing behind.
Pro tip: Check out some great de-cluttering tips at @GoCleanCo on Instagram

5. Check out!

  • Set up mail forwarding in the Student Housing Online Service Centre. (Fairview Crescent residents: contact Canada Post to forward mail.)
  • Check out at your residence Front Desk!
  • Ensure you have everything taken with you.
Cleaning & departure checklists