The No-Stress Move: A Leicester Local's Guide to Move-In Day

Move-in day at student accommodation is officially the start of your Leicester adventure, and while the energy is high, the logistics can feel overwhelming. By approaching the day with a clear plan, you can skip the stress and head straight to the best part (which is settling into your new home and meeting everyone you’ll share your university journey with).

Task	Why It Matters	Priority
Complete Registration	Required to collect keys and access Wi-Fi.	Critical
Book Arrival Slot	Manages traffic and lift access at properties.	High
Pack Essentials Box	Bedding, kettle, and chargers for the first night.	Essential
Inventory Check	Essential for protecting your security deposit.	Contractual

Why is a Planned Arrival Important?

Moving hundreds of students into a building simultaneously requires a little planning. On move-in day, most buildings will give you a specific move-in slot to ensure the process remains as smooth as possible for all residents. Because parking and life access is limited, arriving on time prevents bottlenecks and allows you to get your belongings to your room without unnecessary heavy lifting or long waits.

How can I make my room feel like home?

The transitions to living away from home for the first time can be a big step for many students. Here are a few ways to make your room feel homely as soon as you arrive:

• Prioritise the bed: Making your bed should be the first thing you do. It provides a clean space and comfy space to sit and makes the room feel lived in straight away.
• The first night box: You should consider packing a separate box with your kettle (if you need one), mug, snacks, and basic toiletries. This stops you having to dig through dozens of boxes just to make a nice cup of tea.
• Personal touches: Adding photos or a familiar poster can make your student room feel personal. However, remember to use non-marking adhesives to keep your wall in good condition.

What are the logistics of moving to Leicester?

Leicester isn’t a large city, but it can get busy around the start of term for both the University of Leicester and De Montfort University.

• Navigating the City: If you are driving, check local road closures near the city centre and leave with plenty of time to make your time slot. Leicester has a number of one way systems that can be confusing for someone who’s never driven in the city.
• The Inventory: This is a first day necessity. We recommend checking every drawer, cupboard, and appliance as soon as you arrive. Documenting the condition of your room ensures there is no confusion regarding your deposit when you eventually move out.
• Local Essentials: Once you’ve dropped your bags, take a quick walk to explore. You’ll soon stumble across your closest supermarkets, pubs, and takeaways (many of which are within walking distance of our properties).

Common Questions

What happens if I’m late for my slot? 

This will vary by property, but you will likely be asked to wait until a quieter window to ensure those with active bookings can unload safely. It is a good idea to contact your site team if you are stuck in traffic.

Can my parents stay over to help me unpack? 

Most student accommodations allow guests, however your parents cannot stay overnight during the move-in weekend or at anytime afterwards. This is to ensure fire safety and capacity regulations are met.

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