The Countdown to Check-Out: Pack Smarter, Not Harder
This Check-Out Countdown series is brought to you by Columbia Housing and Columbia Residential Life to help undergraduate students prepare for move-out at the end of the academic year.
As we move closer to check-out, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your packing and storage strategy. A little planning now goes a long way in saving time and avoiding stress and last-minute chaos later, especially around finals.
Week-by-Week Packing Timeline
Want to avoid shoving everything into a suitcase the night before check-out? Here's a simple timeline to help you get ahead:
Week
- April 20-24
Tips & What to Pack
- Pack course materials you no longer need (store, sell, or donate).
- Keep all textbooks & notes you’ll need for finals within easy reach.
- Book your travel (train/flight/bus) now for the best rates!
Week
- April 27 - May 1
Tips & What to Pack
- Pack rarely-used drawer items (label bins/bags for easy ID).
- Avoid using trash bags for personal belongings whenever possible, as they may be mistaken for trash or recycling during move-out.
- Arrange vendor access for movers or large item pickups.
- Plan donations & trash (chutes will close on May 8)
Week
- May 4-8
Tips & What to Pack
- Remove wall décor & posters (remove gently to avoid damage)
- Pack bulky items: extra bedding, rugs, linens in compression bags
- Confirm any storage unit reservations & pick‑up/drop‑off times.
- Submit final maintenance requests online to resolve any repairs.
Week
- May 11-15
Tips & What to Pack
- Keep only daily essentials: outfits, toiletries, chargers.
- Defrost & Clean any small appliances (i.e, mini‑fridge) by mid‑week.
- Pack small appliances & kitchenware.
- Prep for final room check and clean room (avoid the $250 fee!)
Helpful Links
1. Vendor Access Request Form | Columbia Housing
2. Service Request Form | Columbia Facilities
3. Check-Out Info | Columbia Housing
4. Guest Registration Form | Columbia University
Reminder
No extensions are available! Residents must adhere to the check-out times below.
Make sure to complete Web Check-Out in the Housing Portal before you leave.
Please note that Web Check-Out revokes building access on your CUID, so do not complete it early.
- Non‑Graduating Students | Within 24 hours of your last final, or by Saturday, May 16 at 12:00 p.m., whichever comes first
- Graduating Students | No later than Thursday, May 21 at 12:00 p.m.
Important Docs to Locate Now
Before you pack, gather any documents you’ll need over the summer. Once your room is empty, you won’t be able to get back in, and Facilities will clear remaining items. So don’t forget:
- Passport, driver’s license, or other government ID
- Prescriptions, insurance cards, and vaccination records
- Anything you'll need access to over the summer (vs. what can be stored)
Next Week
We’ll be diving into donation options, trash etiquette, and what not to leave behind. If you have any questions, reach out to your RA or me directly. We're here to help! Feel free to also take a look at last week’s initial countdown email for all the to-dos, check-out processes, and more!