Moving as a student in Victoria presents unique challenges - tight budgets, busy schedules, and peak season competition. Whether you're heading to UVic, Camosun, or Royal Roads, this guide will help you navigate your move smoothly and affordably.
Critical Moving Dates to Know
Peak Moving Season = Higher Prices
Late August / Early September (BUSIEST)
UVic & Camosun fall semester starts. Book 4-6 weeks ahead!
💡 Tip: Moving mid-week costs less than weekends
Late April / Early May (BUSY)
End of winter semester. Many students move out.
💡 Tip: Coordinate with your lease end date early
January (Moderate)
Spring semester starts. Less busy than fall but still competitive.
💡 Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best availability
Student Moving Costs
2-hour minimum • 2 movers + truck included
Typical Student Moves:
💰 Student Money-Saving Tips:
- • Split costs: Share a moving truck with roommates
- • Pack yourself: We provide the muscle, you pack the boxes
- • Move mid-week: Tuesday-Thursday often has better availability
- • Minimize items: Sell/donate what you don't need before moving
- • Book early: Last-minute bookings during peak season cost more
Popular Student Neighborhoods
Gordon Head (UVic Area)
Walking distance to UVic campus. Mix of houses split into student rentals and purpose-built apartments. Rent: $800-1,200/room. Popular streets: Sinclair, Hobbs, Shelbourne.
Saanich moving services →Fernwood / North Park
Artsy, walkable neighborhoods close to downtown and Camosun Interurban. Great cafes and community vibe. Rent: $900-1,400/room. Quick bus to both campuses.
Victoria moving services →James Bay / Fairfield
Close to Camosun Lansdowne campus and downtown Victoria. Quieter, family-friendly areas. Rent: $1,000-1,500/room. Ocean views, parks, and coffee shops.
Victoria moving services →Langford (Budget-Friendly)
More affordable option with bus access to both campuses. Newer buildings with in-suite laundry. Rent: $700-1,000/room. 20-30 min bus commute.
Langford moving services →Smart Packing for Students
📦 What to Bring
- ✓ Clothes (seasonal - Victoria is mild!)
- ✓ Laptop & electronics
- ✓ Bedding & towels
- ✓ School supplies
- ✓ Personal items & decor
- ✓ Kitchen basics (if not furnished)
🚫 What to Leave Behind
- ✗ Furniture (most student housing is furnished)
- ✗ Heavy textbooks (buy used locally or rent)
- ✗ Winter gear (Victoria is mild)
- ✗ Bulky kitchen appliances
- ✗ Anything you haven't used in 6 months
📍 Where to Get FREE Boxes:
- • Grocery stores: Ask for produce boxes at Save-On-Foods, Thrifty Foods
- • Liquor stores: BC Liquor Store has sturdy boxes
- • Facebook Marketplace: Search "free moving boxes Victoria"
- • Campus bulletin boards: Students post free boxes after their moves
- • U-Haul Box Exchange: Free box listing service
Campus-Specific Moving Tips
University of Victoria (UVic)
- • Residence move-in: Specific dates/times assigned - don't be late!
- • Parking: Limited on-campus parking. Get permit or use loading zones briefly.
- • Elevators: Reserve elevator times for high-rises like Cluster, Tower
- • Storage: UVic Storage available for summer break
- • Best route: McKenzie Ave to Sinclair Rd entrance
Camosun College
- • Two campuses: Lansdowne (Victoria) & Interurban (Saanich)
- • Lansdowne: Central location, near Hillside Mall, bus routes
- • Interurban: Near Broadmead, Royal Oak, good parking
- • No on-campus housing: Most students rent nearby apartments
- • Student housing: Check Camosun Student Society listings
Student Moving Checklist
4-6 Weeks Before
- ☐ Book movers (TruckNaGuy!)
- ☐ Secure housing & sign lease
- ☐ Notify current landlord (if applicable)
- ☐ Start collecting free boxes
- ☐ Sell/donate unwanted items
2 Weeks Before
- ☐ Pack non-essentials
- ☐ Update address (mail, ICBC, bank)
- ☐ Transfer utilities if needed
- ☐ Arrange parking/elevator booking
- ☐ Clean out fridge
1 Week Before
- ☐ Finish packing
- ☐ Label all boxes clearly
- ☐ Confirm moving time
- ☐ Pack essentials box (overnight bag)
- ☐ Take photos (move-out inspection)
Moving Day
- ☐ Clear pathways for movers
- ☐ Have payment ready
- ☐ Do final walkthrough
- ☐ Return keys to landlord
- ☐ Update mailing address at campus
Student-Friendly Moving Services
Fast, affordable, and reliable. We understand student budgets and schedules!
Or call us at (778) 700-6823