Scape's guide to checking out

This time of year can become quite stressful when you notice how much you've accumulated over the past 12 months. 

• Where is it all going to go?

• How long do I have to move out?

• Must everything be packed into suitcases?

• Where will my post go?

• How do I leave my room?

• Where do I leave my keys?

Start thinking early so you don't miss any important things!

Change address

First things first, change your postal address. You need to forward any incoming mail to your new address to avoid missing any important paperwork. Doing this earlier rather than later will be beneficial as companies sometimes have a backlog on their post and will still send their next communications to your current place.

Packing up

Need more packing space than your suitcases? If you're lucky, your local shop will have some leftover cardboard boxes you can use and the tube stops will have an array of free newspapers at the ready. Divide your things into categories that will be helpful when you get round to unpacking, and then place them in the boxes. If you have anything delicate or breakable you can use the newspaper to wrap them - if you fancy something a little cleaner and with extra bounce, you can always buy rolls of bubble wrap from the post office or a DIY store. Make sure you also buy some strong duct tape to secure the boxes and a marker pen to organise your belongings.

Too many things?

Whether you're taking things in a car, packing suitcases on a plane, or hiring a moving van or packing service like Stored - space fills fast. You have three main options for those unexpected extras:

• Ask at reception where the donation boxes are; most charities are after books and other household items as well as clothes.

• Organise a separate delivery for your items; lots of couriers will do a next day pick up - so make sure you haven't left this until the last day!

• Put your things into a storage facility, or if you're lucky you can save some money and leave them with your friends or family. This idea is especially helpful if you are only away for a short period of time and are moving nearby.

Cleaning up

Your room may be empty, but you're still not done! It's time to whack out those cleaning supplies and make your room spic and span. Vacuum the carpet, wipe down all appliances and surfaces. Your room and inventory will be compared to how it was when you first moved in, so that's what you should compare it to. Here are a few things students often miss before their final room inspection:

• Limescale in the bathroom

• Unclean fridge-freezer

• Rubbish or belongings left in room

Say farewell

That's it! You're packed, clean, organised and ready to move on to your next location. Make sure to drop off your Scape card (and post box key and safe box if you have them) at reception and our staff will be able to check everything is a-okay before you leave. We'll be sad to see you go, but we wish you the very best in what comes next!