Don't overdo it when you pack. Sure, it's tempting to box up everything you own and lug it along with you, but you're only in college a few months before your first mandatory break (where many colleges boot you out of the dorms for a short period of time). You'll need the basics, like bedsheets, pillows, your computer and personal hygiene products. Your best bet is to make a checklist and plan ahead before packing. Many colleges have a list of the items you'll need right on the school's website. Don't worry if you forget something; you can always pick it up during a weekend or ask your family to ship it to you later.
Chances are you won't be bringing everything you own to your college dorm, especially since you'll most likely be sharing that space with at least one other person during your freshman year. Therefore, don't bother renting a moving van or truck. Enlist your parents and see if any friends are willing to help. The more people who help you, the easier the move will be.
Part of college is being broke, but you don't have to be. Plan out your finances with roommates to save money on food, drinks and personal care items like toothpaste. Splitting appliances is another easy way to save time and effort. If one person brings a TV and a phone, another can agree to bring a mini-fridge or microwave. It's all about planning ahead and pooling your resources.
It sounds pretty basic, but you never know when there will be an emergency that requires money. Saving some extra cash before you move to college is practical. There may be times when you'll need to purchase items like soap, food, a new toothbrush or even a new article of clothing. Bring some money from your summer job, graduation presents, or savings account.
College dorms can be very large. Plan ahead and pack as much as you can in each moving box, taking care to note the contents of each box on a separate sheet of paper or on the box itself. Make sure you pack items carefully to prevent breakage during the move.