Student Moving Guide for Metro Vancouver
Moving to or from a university in Metro Vancouver is a different experience from a full household move. Here is what students need to know about moving on a budget in one of Canada's most expensive cities.
When to Move
Late August and early September are the busiest times for student moves in Metro Vancouver. UBC, SFU, BCIT, Langara, and other institutions all start in September, creating a surge in demand for moving services.
Book early. If you are moving in late August or early September, book your movers 3–4 weeks in advance. These dates fill up fast.
Mid-month is better. If you have flexibility, moving mid-month (rather than at month-end) gives you more choice of dates and times.
What to Bring
Bring:
- Bedding (sheets, pillow, duvet)
- Towels
- Kitchen basics (a few plates, glasses, mugs, pots, cutlery)
- Laptop and all chargers
- Clothing for all seasons (Vancouver has warm summers, wet winters, and everything in between)
- Rain gear — a good rain jacket is essential
- Desk lamp and study supplies
Leave behind (or buy used in Vancouver):
- Large furniture if your new place is furnished
- Bulky items that are cheap to replace (cleaning supplies, paper products)
- Anything you can buy at IKEA or a thrift store for less than it costs to move
Finding Housing Near Vancouver Universities
UBC: Point Grey, Kitsilano, and Dunbar are popular neighbourhoods. On-campus housing is available but competitive — apply early.
SFU Burnaby: Burnaby Heights, Brentwood, and Lougheed are convenient. SFU has on-campus housing.
SFU Surrey: Surrey Central area. More affordable than Vancouver.
BCIT: Burnaby. Brentwood and Metrotown are convenient.
Langara: South Vancouver, Marpole, and Oakridge are close.
Budget: Expect to pay $1,200–$1,800/month for a room in a shared house near most Metro Vancouver universities. Basement suites and shared houses are more affordable than apartments.
Moving on a Budget
Minimize what you move. The less you move, the less you pay. Student moves are typically small — a bed, a desk, a dresser, and boxes. This is one of the most affordable types of moves.
Pack everything yourself. Packing your own boxes saves the cost of professional packing. Have everything ready before the crew arrives.
Move mid-week. Weekday moves are easier to schedule and the crew may have more flexibility.
Use free boxes. Liquor stores, grocery stores, and Facebook Marketplace are good sources of free boxes.
What a Student Move Costs
A typical student move (studio or 1-bedroom with minimal furniture) costs $350–$550 with 4 You Moving. At $149/hr for 2 movers, most student moves fall within the 2–3 hour range including travel time.
Ready to Move?
Get a free quote or call 778-200-8825. We serve all of Metro Vancouver and surrounding areas, 7 days a week.