Top Questions Families Ask, From College Search to Graduation
Common questions and where to direct families for answers.
Choosing, Applying and Enrolling
Q: Where can a student see everything they need to do for one college?
A: Each college on CollegeLogistics has a Your Steps page: explore, apply (including financial aid forms), decide, pay tuition and fees to the college, enroll and move in. Every step links to the college's own page or the official source (for example, studentaid.gov for the FAFSA and the College Board for the CSS Profile), and shows the college's deadline when we have it from the college.
Q: How do we compare colleges on more than tuition?
A: Shortlist colleges on the Explore page, then open Compare. It puts federal cost figures, room and board, campus housing, and links to each college's net price calculator side by side.
Q: Can a student get reminders before deadlines?
A: Yes. With a free account, a student can tap Remind me on any step. For deadlines the college publishes, the email arrives a week before; for anything else, on the date they choose.
Q: Can I, as a counselor, see how my students are doing?
A: Only if they choose to. Each student's link has an optional setting to share their shortlist and checked-off steps with you. It is off by default, the student can turn it off at any time, and their email, reminders and bookings are never shared.
Q: Does CollegeLogistics replace Scoir, Naviance or the Common App?
A: No. Applications are still submitted through the college or the application platform. CollegeLogistics covers what those tools don't: what living at each college is like, costs beyond tuition, and every step from acceptance to move-in day.
Travel & Transportation
Q: When should we book flights for move-in?
A: Book flights 2-3 months in advance for best rates. Check the university's official move-in dates and time windows first. Consider booking flexible tickets in case schedules change.
Q: How do we get from the airport to campus?
A: Check the university website for recommended shuttle services, public transit options, or rideshare services. Some schools offer move-in day shuttles from major airports.
Q: Do we need a rental car?
A: It depends on the campus location and how much you're bringing. If flying, consider shipping bulky items and using rideshares or shuttles instead. If driving cross-country, a rental might not be necessary.
Storage
Q: When should we book summer storage?
A: Book storage services 4-6 weeks before finals week. Many campus storage providers fill up early, especially for popular move-out dates.
Q: What's the difference between campus storage and off-campus storage?
A: Campus storage services typically offer pickup and delivery directly from dorms, while off-campus facilities require you to transport items yourself. Compare convenience, cost, and timing when deciding.
Q: What items should we store vs. take home?
A: Store bulky items like mini-fridges, furniture, and seasonal clothing. Take home valuables, electronics, and personal documents. Consider the cost of storage vs. cost of replacing items.
Shipping
Q: What can we ship to campus ahead of time?
A: Most campuses accept packages during move-in week. Check the mail center's rules for acceptable package sizes, prohibited items, and delivery windows. Avoid shipping perishables or valuables.
Q: How should we label packages?
A: Use the exact format required by the university mail center. Typically: Student Name, Housing Building & Room Number, University Address. Double-check with the housing office for specific formatting requirements.
Q: When should packages arrive?
A: Time deliveries to arrive 1-3 days before move-in day, but not earlier. Many mail centers have limited storage and won't accept packages too far in advance. Confirm the earliest acceptable delivery date with the university.
Move-In Day
Q: What should we bring on move-in day?
A: Bring government ID, housing confirmation, immediate essentials (toiletries, change of clothes), basic tools (scissors, screwdriver), water, snacks, and comfortable clothing. Keep important documents separate from packed items.
Q: How long does move-in usually take?
A: Plan for 2-4 hours for unloading, check-in, and initial setup. Add time for shopping for last-minute essentials. Many families stay for part of the first day to help with room setup and attend orientation events.
Q: Can we arrive outside our assigned move-in time window?
A: Generally no. Universities assign time windows to manage traffic and elevator access. Arriving early or late can cause delays and congestion. Contact housing immediately if you have an unavoidable conflict.
Cost & Budget
Q: What's the typical cost for college move-in logistics?
A: Costs vary widely based on distance and services needed. Budget $500-2,000+ for travel, shipping, and storage combined. Long-distance moves and storage services typically cost more. Compare options early for better rates.
Q: Are there student discounts for logistics services?
A: Many storage and shipping providers offer student discounts or special rates during move-in/move-out periods. Check university-recommended providers and ask about student rates when comparing options.
Q: Is insurance necessary for shipped or stored items?
A: Consider insurance for valuable items. Most standard shipping and storage doesn't cover full replacement value. Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance for coverage during transit and storage.
Tip: In the next dialog, choose Save as PDF.
Planning support only. CollegeLogistics does not provide moving, shipping, or storage services. Privacy-first by design.