Move-In 2026

Make your move-in easy by completing these items before you arrive:

• Update your Housing registration information in the myKU portal before arrival.
• Review your move-in checklist—you’ll find it in the “Housing” section of the myKU portal. It includes your room assignment, roommate info, confirmed arrival time, mailing address, and mailbox code.
• Have your KU ID card ready. It’s required for check-in, so make sure to submit your photo to the KU Card Center and plan to pick it up before arrival.
• Study your hall’s move-in packet for arrival logistics and parking.
• Know the vehicle restrictions: Residents are limited to two vehicles. Trailers, RVs, U-Hauls, and box trucks cannot be unloaded in designated unloading zones. 
• Review packing guidelines and connect with your roommates to know what to bring (and what to leave behind).

Use the information below to help you prepare for a successful move-in. Arrival procedures will vary by building, so please be sure to review specific instructions for your assigned hall or apartment. 

• General Arrival Instructions

  • Arrival Time: Your designated arrival time is when you should be at the starting location shown on your move-in map—not at the door of your building 

• Unloading and Parking 

  • Unloading: KU Housing staff will guide you to your unloading zone
  • Vehicle Instructions: 
    • If arriving in separate vehicles, the student should arrive at the unloading zone first 
    • Trailers, U-Hauls, and box trucks are not permitted
    • Drivers must remain with their vehicles while unloading 
  • After Unloading: Drivers will be directed to long-term parking lots. 

• Check-In 

  • Pick Up Your Key: Students will check in at their hall using their KU ID card and receive their room key. 
  • Students will verify registration information 

• Staff Assistance 

  • KU Housing staff will be in the area throughout move-in wearing KU Housing and Residence Life shirts and name badges. Don't hesitate to ask them for help! 
  • Volunteers will be present at unloading zones to assist in moving items and answering questions. 

Approved Early Group Arrivals

• Students who are part of an approved early arrival group such as Panhellenic Recruitment, Band, Jayhawk JumpStart, or ROTC do not need to submit an early arrival request.
  • Students will receive additional information regarding their move-in from their sponsoring department.

Individual Early Arrivals

Students may submit an early arrival request through their housing portal. 

• • University-approved early arrivals (starting August 10): Requests and fees are assessed on an individual basis. 

• • Non-university-approved early arrivals (starting August 16): Unapproved early arrivals could be charged $150 per day. 

• Housing has an extremely limited number of carts available. Bring your own cart or collapsible wagon for your convenience.
• Review what to bring for packing lists, prohibited items, and move-in tips.
• For information about bed height adjustments, visit the furniture page.
• KU is a Tobacco-Free campus, and smoking is prohibited, including e-cigs and vaporizers.
• Pets and alcohol are prohibited in the halls, even on move-in day.
• Be prepared to walk distances and climb stairs in typical Kansas summer heat.
• Mobility Support:
  • Guests or family members with limited mobility should remain at the hall and not travel to long-term parking lots.
  • If mobility concerns arise, notify a staff member for assistance.