We all know that move in and move out day are the two most dreaded days of the semester. Having to pack all of your many belongings into boxes, figuring out where to store it, putting in the physical work and labor, moving heavy appliances and adjusting to a new home setting are all difficult, but they are not impossible. There are a number of steps that can help you on your journey of moving into a new humble abode and there are many tips and tricks that will help this not so enjoyable day go by quicker than you anticipated and with much less stress.

1. Make sure to pack all of your belongings before the last day.

As much fun as procrastination may seem, if you wait until the last minute to begin packing your things it will take up plenty of hours that you could be spending on moving your items in and out. If you pack most (or all) of your items before move out day, the only thing you will have to worry about is transporting them to the car or UHaul and taking them to your next destination.

2. Give away items that you haven't used in forever.

In the process of packing I'm sure you will notice accessories, clothes and appliances that you haven't used in months, if not years, and someone else could greatly benefit from the sweater you forgot you had or the necklace you never wear. Also, by giving away items that you rarely use, you can save space for the more important items that you can't live without and you will have even less to carry.

3. Arrange for transport and storage.

Make sure you have enough room in your car to put your belongings, if you aren't moving in for awhile and need some place to store your items, then look into storage spaces that offer great deals and are close to your location. If a car just doesn't seem like enough room, then definitely look into deals for UHaul vans or trucks.

4. Make sure to buy plenty of boxers or containers for storage.

Instead of having a thousand bags to carry, invest in boxes and containers to put your appliances, personal items and belongings. You won't regret having less trips to take and it will be better for you in the long run because you can fit way more in one box than in any plastic or cloth bag.

5. Make sure you have a place to stay if you aren't moving directly into your new place.

Arrange for a place to stay such as a friend's house, a hotel or your hometown for the days in between move out day and move in day. Most of the time there is an overlap and some people are out of luck because they didn't make previous living arrangements.

6. Look at move in options.

Sometimes, there are options to move in earlier than the normal move in date and most apartment complexes are willing to allow residents to move in for a low fee or possibly free if there is an "as is" option.

If you follow all of these tips and tricks during moving days, you are sure to experience less stress, more free time and you will surely thank yourself for preparing ahead of time and having a plan in action. By following all of these steps, you will allow yourself more time to relax and prepare for the upcoming semester instead of stressing about getting all of your belongings together in order to move out in time. Good luck with moving day and I hope you find it to be just a little bit more bearable now that you have the keys to success.