12 Best College Dorm Move-In Checklist Apps 📱 (2026)

a cell phone on a bed

The best College dorm move-in checklist app for most roommate groups is DormDibs, thanks to shared “Dibs” assignments, purchase tracking, parent-friendly shopping access, and dorm-specific planning. For Android-heavy or highly customized groups, Todoist, Google Keep, Notion, or Microsoft To Do offer dependable alternatives.

We’ve watched move-in day turn into a logistical comedy: four desk lamps, three shower caddies, zero mattress protectors, and one exhausted parent asking, “Who packed the towels?” A shared digital checklist prevents that particular sitcom by showing what is needed, who claimed it, and whether it is packed.

The smartest setup combines one shared app with a printed or offline first-night list. That way, you can coordinate roommate purchases before arrival and still find your charger when campus Wi-Fi decides to take a well-earned vacation.

Key Takeaways

  • DormDibs is the best purpose-built option for iPhone roommate groups coordinating shared purchases.
  • Todoist, Google Keep, Microsoft To Do, and Apple Reminders are strong choices for simple, flexible checklists.
  • Assign every shared item to one person to avoid duplicate purchases and “I thought you were bringing it” confusion.
  • Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves, especially bedding, medication, documents, toiletries, chargers, and first-night supplies.
  • Check official residence-hall rules before buying appliances, power strips, candles, or storage gear.
  • Keep an offline or printed backup for parking instructions, move-in appointments, room inspections, and essential supplies.
  • Photograph existing room damage before unpacking and store the images securely with your housing records.
  • Use the checklist after move-in for cleaning schedules, maintenance reports, shared expenses, and move-out reminders.

Table of Contents


Quick Tips and Facts

Our Moving Checklist app guide starts with one practical rule: your dorm move-in checklist should reduce decisions, not create another digital chore. The best app helps you see what to bring, who is buying it, what has arrived, and what still needs attention.

A useful dorm checklist app can help you:

  • ✅ Create packing categories for bedding, clothing, toiletries, electronics, documents, and cleaning supplies.
  • ✅ Assign shared items to roommates.
  • ✅ Track purchases, receipts, and delivery status.
  • ✅ Set deadlines for housing forms, move-in appointments, and parking reservations.
  • ✅ Save a printable or offline copy for busy campus arrival areas.
  • ✅ Record room damage before unpacking.
  • ❌ It cannot override residence-hall rules, guarantee an item fits, or magically make a tiny closet larger. We have asked.

What a College Dorm Move-In Checklist App Actually Does

A college dorm move-in checklist app is usually a task manager, shopping list, shared inventory, or purpose-built roommate coordination tool. Apps such as Todoist, Notion, Google Keep, and Microsoft To Do are flexible. A specialized product such as DormDibs focuses specifically on shared dorm purchases.

The distinction matters:

App type Best for Strength Limitation
General task manager Packing deadlines and reminders Flexible categories and due dates May not understand dorm-specific items
Shared shopping list Groceries and supplies Fast collaboration Less useful for room measurements or damage records
Notes/database app Detailed inventory and documents Highly customizable Requires more setup
Purpose-built dorm app Roomate coordination Dibs, shared lists, parent shopping access May have limited platform support
Printable checklist Low-tech backup Works without Wi-Fi or battery No live updates or accountability

The current DormDibs App Store listing describes a shared list where roommates can claim items with “Dibs,” track spending, and send parents a browser-based shopping list. That is a sharper solution than a group chat full of messages like, “Wait, who bought the microwave?”

The 24-Hour Move-In Essentials

Your app should have a high-priority list for the first night. Put these items in a clearly labeled bag or plastic tote:

  • Bedding, sheets, pillow, and mattress protector
  • Phone charger and a long charging cable
  • Prescription medicine and basic first-aid supplies
  • Toiletries and a towel
  • Change of clothes and sleepwear
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Important identification and housing documents
  • Basic cleaning wipes and paper towels
  • Snacks that do not require refrigeration
  • Small toolkit, scissors, and trash bags

The U.S. Department of Education’s college preparation guidance encourages students to organize financial, academic, and personal preparations before arrival. We apply the same idea to physical packing: separate what you need immediately from what can wait until the second shopping trip.

Quick Facts That Save Space, Time, and Sanity

Fact Why it matters Checklist action
Dorm rooms vary dramatically in size and furniture A product that fits one residence hall may not fit another Measure first; record dimensions in the app
Campus rules differ on appliances, candles, extension cords, and cooking equipment A forbidden item becomes expensive clutter Link the housing handbook to your checklist
Shared purchases can create roommate friction “I thought you were bringing it” is a classic move-in plot twist Assign an owner and backup buyer
Wi-Fi may be slow during arrival A cloud-only list may be awkward at the worst moment Export or screenshot essential lists
Move-in appointments may be timed Arriving early does not always mean unloading early Add the appointment as a calendar event
Room damage should be documented immediately Photos and written notes can protect you later Create a move-in inspection task
Parents often help with buying rather than carrying A browser share page can be easier than app setup Send a clean purchase link

For housing policies, check your university’s official residence-life page and compare it with broader fire-safety guidance from the National Fire Protection Association. Never assume an item is allowed because a dorm influencer used it. Social media rooms are not your housing contract.

From Paper Lists to Smart Dorm Move-In Apps

Why College Students Need More Than a Printable Packing List

A printable list is excellent for visibility. It is also wonderfully incapable of answering:

  • Who bought the shower caddy?
  • Did the Amazon order arrive?
  • Which items are mine?
  • Is the mini-fridge allowed?
  • Where did we document the chipped desk?
  • What still needs to be purchased after move-in?

That is why we recommend a hybrid system:

  1. Use an app for collaboration and reminders.
  2. Use a printed list for moving-day speed.
  3. Use cloud storage for receipts, photos, and housing documents.

The Federal Trade Commission recommends thoughtful handling of personal information online. A paper backup should not include unnecessary sensitive data, and a shared checklist should not expose passport numbers, medical details, or payment information.

How Digital Checklists Changed Campus Move-In Day

The old system was often a spreadsheet, a family group chat, and a frantic final trip to Target. Digital checklists improve the process by adding:

  • Ownership: one person is responsible for each shared item.
  • Status: needed, claimed, purchased, delivered, packed, or packed in the car.
  • Timing: deadlines forms, shopping, shipping, and arrival.
  • Evidence: photos of damage, receipts, and delivery confirmations.
  • Communication: questions stay attached to the item instead of disappearing inside chat history.

Our movers have seen both extremes. One family color-coded 40 plastic bins and unloaded like a pit crew. Another arrived with four desk lamps, no sheets, and a single fork. The difference was not enthusiasm. It was visibility.

Best College Dorm Move-In Checklist Apps Compared


Video: ULTIMATE COLLEGE PACKING LIST + MOVE-IN PLAN: everything to bring for your freshman year dorm 📦✨.








App Ratings at a Glance

Ratings below reflect practical dorm move-in performance, not app-store star scores. DormDibs’ listing, for example, does not provide a numerical rating or written customer-review score in the supplied information.

App Design Dorm functionality Roomate sharing Purchase tracking Offline flexibility Setup ease Overall
DormDibs 9/10 10/10 10/10 9/10 6/10 9/10 9/10
Todoist 9/10 8/10 9/10 7/10 8/10 8/10 8/10
Google Keep 8/10 7/10 8/10 6/10 8/10 10/10 8/10
Microsoft To Do 8/10 7/10 7/10 6/10 8/10 9/10 8/10
Notion 9/10 9/10 8/10 8/10 6/10 5/10 8/10
AnyList 8/10 8/10 9/10 7/10 7/10 9/10 8/10
OurHome 7/10 8/10 9/10 7/10 6/10 7/10 7/10
Trello 8/10 8/10 8/10 7/10 7/10 7/10 8/10
Apple Reminders 8/10 7/10 8/10 6/10 8/10 9/10 8/10
Google Tasks 7/10 6/10 6/10 5/10 8/10 9/10 7/10

1. DormDibs for Roomate Coordination

DormDibs is the closest match to the search intent because it is designed around dorm rooms, suites, apartments, roommates, and parents.

Key features

  • Shared move-in lists
  • Starter lists for different housing types
  • “Dibs” assignments
  • Real-time updates
  • Spending and cost division
  • Vibe Boards with product recommendations
  • Store grouping
  • Amazon cart integration
  • Printable shopping view
  • Browser-based parent access without requiring parents to download the app

The App Store summary says users can create a group in roughly 30 seconds, invite roommates with a link, and let parents view or purchase items from a shared page. That parent-access feature is genuinely useful: the student keeps control of the list while the parent handles the shopping tab.

DormDibs strengths

✅ Purpose-built for college housing
✅ Reduces duplicate purchases
✅ Makes responsibility visible
✅ Connects shopping and coordination
✅ Includes a parent-friendly browser view
✅ Supports printing after shopping decisions are made

DormDibs drawbacks

❌ The supplied listing is iPhone-focused and requires iOS 15.1 or later
❌ The listing identifies linked data such as contact information, user content, identifiers, usage data, and diagnostics
❌ Campus-specific product tags appear available only for select schools
❌ A specialized app may be less useful after move-in than a general task manager
❌ The app’s lack of published numerical ratings in the supplied listing means you should test it with your group before relying on it completely

The app’s latest listed version, 1.0.7, adds parent questions on shared pages, one-tap Amazon cart additions, store grouping, and an improved print view. Those are practical updates, not glittery decoration.

Our DormDibs verdict

Best for: roommates who need shared purchasing and accountability.
Skip it if: your group uses Android phones or wants a mature cross-platform ecosystem. In that case, Todoist or Google Keep may be more dependable.

👉 Shop dorm essentials to add to your shared list:

2. Todoist for Flexible Dorm Packing Projects

Todoist works well when move-in includes many deadlines beyond shopping. Create a project called “College Move-In,” then add sections for:

  • Housing forms
  • Packing
  • Purchases
  • Shipping
  • Roomate coordination
  • Move-in day
  • First-week tasks

Its labels and filters are useful for separating bring, buy, borrow, and confirm with housing. You can also add due dates for tasks such as “confirm elevator reservation” or “wash bedding.”

✅ Excellent recurring reminders
✅ Strong cross-platform support
✅ Helpful for parents and students using different devices
❌ Requires manual dorm categorization
❌ Product links and shared spending need extra setup

3. Microsoft To Do for Simple Student Checklists

Microsoft To Do is a clean option for students already using Microsoft accounts, Outlook, or Windows laptops.

Use separate lists for:

  • “Pack from home”
  • “Buy near campus”
  • “Roomate shared”
  • “Do on move-in day”
  • “Do before classes”

Its simplicity is the charm. It does not tempt you into building a miniature operations center for three pillowcases and a laundry basket.

✅ Easy task entry
✅ Useful “My Day” view
✅ Works well with Microsoft accounts
✅ Good for students who dislike complex databases
❌ Less visual inventory support
❌ Limited purpose-built dorm functionality

4. Google Keep for Shared Dorm Notes and Shopping Lists

Google Keep is excellent for quick collaborative lists. Create color-coded notes such as:

  • Red: required before arrival
  • Blue: roommate purchases
  • Green: personal items
  • Yellow: questions for housing

You can share notes with roommates and parents, add photos, and use checkboxes. Google Keep is especially useful for recording a screenshot of the residence-hall rules or a photo of the room layout.

✅ Fast and familiar
✅ Useful for shared notes and images
✅ Easy on Android and web
✅ Good offline resilience with preparation
❌ Not ideal for complex dependencies or detailed budgets
❌ A long checklist can become visually noisy

5. Notion for Custom College Move-In Dashboards

Notion suits students who want a full dashboard with databases for:

  • Items
  • Owners
  • Status
  • Store
  • Dimensions
  • Cost responsibility
  • Delivery tracking
  • Room location
  • Photo receipts

A useful item database might include these fields:

Field Example
Item Twin XL mattress protector
Category Bedding
Owner Student
Status Purchased
Store Target
Packed? Yes
Arrived? Yes
Notes Check waterproof rating
Room location Under bed

✅ Most customizable option
✅ Great for detailed inventories
✅ Can combine calendar, notes, and room planning
❌ Setup takes time
❌ A complex template may overwhelm a stressed first-year student
❌ Offline behavior and shared editing should be tested before move-in

6. AnyList for Dorm Supplies and Grocery Planning

AnyList is built around shopping lists, making it useful for groceries, bathroom supplies, cleaning products, and shared consumables.

It works best when the question is “What must we buy?” rather than “What must I do over the next eight weeks?”

✅ Strong shared shopping experience
✅ Useful categories and item notes
✅ Good for repeated grocery lists after move-in
❌ Less effective forms, deadlines, and room inspections
❌ Budgeting features may not replace a dedicated expense tracker

7. OurHome for Roomate Responsibilities

OurHome can help groups assign chores and shared responsibilities. After move-in, use it for:

  • Taking out trash
  • Cleaning the shared bathroom
  • Restocking toilet paper
  • Wiping the mini-fridge
  • Checking laundry supplies
  • Reporting maintenance issues

✅ Good for recurring shared chores
✅ Useful after the packing phase
✅ Encourages visible responsibility
❌ May be more household-oriented than dorm-specific
❌ Requires everyone to participate consistently

8. Trello for Visual Move-In Planning

Trello uses boards, lists, and cards. Create columns such as:

  1. Need to decide
  2. To buy
  3. Claimed
  4. Purchased
  5. Packed
  6. Delivered
  7. In the room

Add checklists inside cards for products that require accessories. For example, a “desk setup” card may contain a lamp, power strip, cable clips, and surge-protection instructions.

✅ Highly visual
✅ Easy to see progress
✅ Useful for roommate workflows
❌ Cards can become cluttered
❌ Shopping budgets and receipts need custom fields or extra tools

9. Apple Reminders for iPhone-Based Dorm Organization

Apple Reminders is a practical choice for iPhone families. Shared lists, tags, smart lists, attachments, and location-based reminders can support move-in planning.

Create tags such as:

  • #dorm
  • #roomate
  • #buy
  • #pack
  • #campus
  • #firstnight

✅ Integrated into Apple devices
✅ Excellent quick capture
✅ Useful shared lists
✅ Strong notification support
❌ Less specialized than DormDibs
❌ Parents and roommates outside Apple’s ecosystem may have a less smooth experience

10. Google Tasks for Android and Google Calendar Users

Google Tasks is best for deadline-driven preparation. Add tasks to Calendar, such as:

  • Submit housing form
  • Confirm move-in time
  • Buy mattress protector
  • Pack documents
  • Photograph room condition

✅ Simple and lightweight
✅ Strong Google Calendar relationship
✅ Good for deadline reminders
❌ Not a full inventory system
❌ Weak for roommate purchase ownership unless paired with Google Keep or Sheets

11. Cozi Family Organizer for Parent-and-Student Coordination

Cozi combines calendars, lists, and family organization. It can work for parents coordinating travel, appointments, shopping, and packing.

✅ Helpful for family logistics
✅ Shared calendar and lists
✅ Useful when several relatives are helping
❌ More family-calendar-oriented than dorm-oriented
❌ Students may prefer a smaller, roommate-focused tool

12. PackPoint for Travel and Dorm Arrival Packing

PackPoint creates travel packing lists using destination, trip length, and activities. It is not a complete dorm inventory solution, but it can help with the clothing and travel segment of move-in.

✅ Useful for arrival luggage
✅ Helps account for weather and activities
✅ Reduces overpacking
❌ Does not replace a dorm room shopping and roommate checklist
❌ College housing rules and room dimensions still require manual planning

Ratings and Reviews: Which Dorm Checklist App Is Best?


Video: How To: Make sure your college furniture actually fits BEFORE move-in day!








Best Overall College Dorm Checklist App

DormDibs earns our top purpose-built rating: 9/10.

Its strongest feature is not the checklist itself. It is the social layer: everyone can see who claimed what, parents can shop from the browser, and spending is more visible. That directly addresses the most common roommate problem: duplicate or unclaimed shared items.

Still, we would pair DormDibs with a cloud photo folder and a calendar. One app should not carry every document, reminder, photo, and receipt in your life.

Best Free Dorm Packing List App

For a simple free setup, choose:

  • Google Keep for shared shopping lists
  • Microsoft To Do for task deadlines
  • Apple Reminders for iPhone households
  • Google Tasks for Google Calendar users

Free does not mean friction-free. The most useful app is the one every roommate will actually open.

Best App for Roomates

DormDibs is the clearest fit for roommate ownership because “Dibs” is easier to understand than a spreadsheet column labeled “Responsible Party.” OurHome becomes more useful once roommates are cleaning and sharing chores.

Best App for Parents Helping With Move-In

Choose DormDibs if the parent needs to shop without downloading anything. Choose Cozi if the family also needs shared travel calendars and appointments.

A parent-facing list should contain:

  • Item name
  • Quantity
  • Who needs it
  • Purchase status
  • Delivery deadline
  • Notes about approved alternatives

Do not send a parent a giant unfiltered list with 80 options. That is how you receive three versions of the same comforter.

Best App for Android Phones

Google Keep, Todoist, AnyList, and Microsoft To Do are strong Android-friendly choices. DormDibs’ supplied listing is iPhone-focused, so an Android roommate group should confirm compatibility before choosing it as the central system.

Best App for iPhone and iPad

Apple Reminders is the easiest built-in choice. DormDibs is the most specialized choice for dorm coordination. The best one depends on whether your priority is ecosystem convenience or purpose-built roommate shopping.

Best Offline Checklist for Campus Move-In

No app should be trusted blindly when cellular service is crowded and residence-hall Wi-Fi is overloaded. Prepare:

  1. Export or print the essential list.
  2. Screenshot the move-in appointment.
  3. Download directions and parking instructions.
  4. Save the housing office phone number.
  5. Keep documents in a waterproof folder.

Best App for Students With ADHD or Executive Function Challenges

Choose an app with:

  • One-step task completion
  • Visual categories
  • Short, specific tasks
  • Repeating reminders
  • Priority labels
  • Minimal nested menus
  • Shared accountability

Todoist, Microsoft To Do, Apple Reminders, and Google Keep can all work. Break “pack the dorm” into tasks such as “put towels in blue bin” and “photograph passport.” The smaller the action, the less likely it becomes a mental fog machine.

The Ultimate College Dorm Move-In Checklist


Video: COLLEGE MOVE IN VLOG 2020!! *freshman at appalachian state*.








Before buying anything, read the residence-hall packing rules. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides general product-safety information, but your school controls what is permitted in its buildings.

13. Documents, Identification, and Move-In Confirmations

Add these to the app with a “must carry” label:

  • Government-issued identification
  • Student ID orientation confirmation
  • Housing contract
  • Move-in appointment
  • Parking pass or unloading instructions
  • Health-insurance information
  • Prescription details
  • Emergency contacts
  • Financial-aid or enrollment documents if required
  • Roomate and resident-assistant contact information

Keep originals in a secure folder and encrypted digital copies where appropriate. Do not upload identity documents to a shared roommate board.

14. Bedding, Mattress Protection, and Sleep Essentials

Dorm mattresses are famously firm, mysteriously patterned, and rarely described as “spa-like.” Pack:

  • Twin XL fitted sheets, if required
  • Mattress protector
  • Mattress topper, subject to storage and fire-safety rules
  • Pillow and pillowcase
  • Blanket or comforter
  • Bed risers only if permitted
  • Under-bed storage
  • Sleep mask and earplugs

The first video’s practical perspective is worth remembering: comfort beats dorm-room aesthetics. It recommends a mattress pad as a hygienic barrier and a thicker topper for hard mattresses. Confirm mattress dimensions with housing before ordering.

👉 Shop bedding and sleep supplies:

15. Clothing, Laundry Supplies, and Seasonal Storage

Pack for the actual climate and your likely routine, not an imaginary version of yourself who attends formal events every Thursday.

  • Everyday outfits
  • Weather-appropriate outerwear
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Shower sandals
  • Workout clothing
  • One interview or formal outfit
  • Laundry hamper or backpack
  • Detergent sheets or approved detergent
  • Stain remover
  • Mesh laundry bags
  • Hangers
  • Seasonal clothing plan

Use the first video’s sensible rule: if you do not use it about once a week, question whether it belongs in the first load. Bring fewer clothes and replenish later if storage is tight.

16. Bathroom, Shower, and Personal Care Items

Shared bathrooms reward organization. Pack:

  • Shower caddy
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Shower shoes
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap or body wash
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Hair products
  • Razor and grooming supplies
  • Menstrual products
  • Toiletry bag
  • Robe or cover-up
  • Small hooks, if allowed

Label personal products if you share a suite. A bathroom shelf with six identical black bottles is a mystery novel nobody requested.

17. Cleaning Supplies and Dorm Room Maintenance

Residence halls may provide basic cleaning services, but your room still needs a maintenance kit:

  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Small broom and dustpan
  • Handheld vacuum
  • Trash bags
  • Paper towels
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Laundry stain remover
  • Lint roller
  • Wrinkle-release spray
  • Odor-control products permitted by housing rules

The first video recommends wrinkle-releasing spray instead of a traditional iron because it saves room. We agree, provided your school permits the product and you follow its label.

For more packing and sorting strategies, see our Home Organization and Decluttering Advice guides.

18. Kitchen, Snacks, and Mini-Fridge Essentials

Check housing rules before bringing appliances. Possible items include:

  • Reusable utensils
  • Mug and water bottle
  • Plate and bowl
  • Microwave-safe containers
  • Food-storage bags
  • Shelf-stable snacks
  • Coffee or tea supplies
  • Dish towel
  • Small cutting board, if permitted
  • Mini-fridge, only if allowed
  • Microwave, only if allowed

Do not assume a mini-fridge or microwave is permitted just because another student brought one. Electrical loads, fire safety, and provided appliances differ by residence hall. Consult your school’s official handbook and the NFPA campus fire-safety resources.

19. Electronics, Chargers, and Study Gear

Add each device and its charger as separate checklist items:

  • Laptop and charger
  • Phone and charger
  • Tablet and stylus
  • Headphones
  • USB hub
  • Long charging cable
  • Approved power strip or surge protector
  • Desk lamp, if permitted
  • Ethernet adapter if needed
  • External drive or backup system
  • Calculator and academic technology

The first video recommends 10-foot charging cables for awkward outlets. That is useful, but do not substitute an unsafe extension cord or daisy-chain power strips. Follow the Electrical Safety Foundation International guidance and your housing rules.

20. Desk Organization and Academic Supplies

A compact study setup usually needs:

  • Pens and pencils
  • Highlighters
  • Notebooks
  • Folders
  • Sticky notes
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Stapler
  • Index cards
  • Planner
  • Cable clips
  • Document folder
  • Desk organizer

Start with less. Campus bookstores and nearby retailers exist for a reason, and an overstuffed desk becomes a daily obstacle course.

21. Health, First Aid, and Medication Storage

Pack:

  • Prescription medications
  • Copies of prescriptions
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Thermometer
  • Pain reliever
  • Allergy medication
  • Bandages
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Personal medical supplies
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Masks if desired
  • Health-insurance card

Store medication securely and according to medical advice. The FDA medication safety guidance is a useful reference, particularly for storage, labeling, and disposal.

22. Safety, Security, and Emergency Supplies

Useful supplies include:

  • Small flashlight
  • Backup battery
  • Whistle
  • Umbrella
  • Rain jacket
  • Emergency contact card
  • Lock for approved storage
  • Reflective gear for walking or cycling
  • Basic sewing kit

The first video calls a sturdy umbrella and rain jacket mandatory for campus walking. After moving students through a surprise downpour, we are not inclined to argue.

23. Decor, Comfort Items, and Personal Touches

Bring a limited set of items that make the room feel yours:

  • Photos
  • Small posters using approved hanging methods
  • Throw blanket
  • Small rug, if permitted
  • Decorative lighting, if permitted
  • Favorite mug
  • Small plant, if practical
  • Comfort object from home

Avoid bringing fragile heirloms or ireplaceable items. Dorm life involves doors, elevators, roommates, laundry rooms, and the occasional rogue water bottle.

24. Storage Bins, Hooks, and Space-Saving Gear

The first video strongly recommends heavy-duty lidded bins, large IKEA-style bags with backpack straps, and plastic drawer units. We agree with the logic:

  • Lidded bins stack in the car and under beds.
  • Backpack-style bags are easier on stairs.
  • Plastic drawers keep clothing accessible.
  • Clear containers make later retrieval easier.

👉 Shop storage and moving gear:

25. Weather, Campus Transportation, and Outdoor Essentials

College campuses are walking communities with weather. Pack:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Rain jacket
  • Umbrella
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Backpack
  • Bicycle helmet, if cycling
  • Reflective gear
  • Small day bag
  • Seasonal accessories

Check local climate data through the National Weather Service rather than relying on a generic packing list.

How to Build a Dorm Move-In Timeline in Your Checklist App


Video: PREPPING FOR COLLEGE MOVE-IN DAY: DORM ESSENTIALS AND TIPS 📦💖🧳.







Six to Eight Weeks Before College Move-In

Create the master project and add:

  1. Read the housing handbook.
  2. Confirm room dimensions and furniture.
  3. Record mattress size.
  4. Confirm move-in date and appointment.
  5. Ask roommates about shared purchases.
  6. Identify what the dorm provides.
  7. Build a “bring, buy, borrow” list.
  8. Check appliance and electrical rules.
  9. Start a budget.
  10. Schedule shipping or moving help.

One Month Before Moving Into the Dorm

Move from research into decisions:

  • Assign shared items.
  • Purchase long-lead items.
  • Order bedding.
  • Sort clothing.
  • Donate duplicates.
  • Photograph valuable belongings.
  • Confirm travel plans.
  • Download the chosen app and test sharing.
  • Create a parent shopping view if needed.

Use our DIY Moving Tips for sorting, labeling, and loading strategies.

One Week Before Campus Arrival

Your checklist should now show mostly packed, delivered, or confirmed statuses.

  • Wash bedding.
  • Pack documents separately.
  • Charge electronics.
  • Label containers.
  • Print or export the list.
  • Check weather.
  • Confirm parking.
  • Confirm roommate arrival times.
  • Prepare the first-night bag.
  • Photograph expensive items and serial numbers.

The Night Before Move-In Day

Do not stay up until 2 a.m. reorganizing a drawer you have not yet seen.

Complete these tasks:

  • Load the vehicle by priority.
  • Put documents and medication in the cabin.
  • Charge phones and battery packs.
  • Set navigation.
  • Put water and snacks within reach.
  • Review the first-night bag.
  • Confirm the move-in appointment.
  • Sleep.

Move-In Morning: What to Check First

Before carrying boxes upstairs:

  1. Check in with housing staff.
  2. Collect keys and access credentials.
  3. Inspect parking and unloading rules.
  4. Photograph the room from several angles.
  5. Record existing damage.
  6. Check furniture condition.
  7. Test outlets and major fixtures.
  8. Confirm bed and desk dimensions.
  9. Then unload.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers general tenant-rights information, but campus housing contracts govern student residence halls. Follow your university’s reporting process.

The First 48 Hours in the Dorm

Add a second-stage list:

  • Buy forgotten essentials locally.
  • Set up the bed first.
  • Establish a charging station.
  • Locate laundry rooms and fire exits.
  • Meet the resident assistant.
  • Learn maintenance-reporting procedures.
  • Agree on roommate quiet hours.
  • Confirm shared storage.
  • Remove cardboard and trash.
  • Update the app with what was actually useful.

That final step matters. Your move-in list should become a living dorm inventory, not a fossil preserved from July.

Shared Dorm Checklists for Roomates


Video: College and Dorm Essentials 2025.








Creating a Roomate Inventory and Shared Purchase List

Use one shared list with columns or labels for:

  • Item
  • Quantity
  • Owner
  • Status
  • Store
  • Shared or personal
  • Backup plan
  • Storage location

Example:

Item Owner Status Shared? Backup
Trash bags Roomate A Purchased Yes Buy near campus
Microwave Roomate B Confirm with housing Yes Use common kitchen
Twin XL sheets Student Packed No Local retailer
Vacuum Roomate C Borrowed Yes Residence hall equipment

Dividing Cleaning, Supplies, and Refrigerator Space

Discuss these before arrival:

  • Who brings cleaning supplies?
  • Who buys shared consumables?
  • How will costs be split?
  • Which refrigerator shelf belongs to whom?
  • Are food labels required?
  • How often will trash be removed?
  • What happens when someone is away?

A checklist cannot resolve every personality difference, but it can make the agreement visible.

Avoiding Duplicate Items and Awkward Money Conversations

Use three rules:

  1. Claim before buying.
  2. Record the purchase.
  3. Setle shared costs regularly.

Avoid vague language such as “I’ll probably bring something.” Use “Roomate A: dish soap, sponges, and trash bags; status: purchased.”

What Roomates Should Discuss Before Move-In

Talk about:

  • Sleep and study schedules
  • Guests
  • Music and noise
  • Shared food
  • Cleaning expectations
  • Temperature preferences
  • Borrowing items
  • Privacy
  • Lighting
  • Communication style

A short conversation before move-in can prevent a long passive-agressive saga involving one abandoned cereal bowl.

Dorm Room Inventory and Damage Documentation

Photographing Existing Damage Before Unpacking

Take wide and close photos of:

  • Walls
  • Floors
  • Ceilings
  • Doors and locks
  • Windows and screens
  • Desks and drawers
  • Beds and frames
  • Closets
  • Outlets
  • Bathroom fixtures
  • Appliances

Use a timestamped folder and upload copies to secure cloud storage. Do not rely only on your phone’s camera roll.

Recording Furniture, Appliances, Keys, and Room Condition

Create a room-inspection checklist:

  • Number of keys
  • Furniture count
  • Furniture condition
  • Existing stains
  • Scratches and dents
  • Missing hardware
  • Window operation
  • Smoke detector condition
  • Temperature or ventilation concerns
  • Maintenance issues

Report problems through the official housing system and keep confirmation numbers.

Using Cloud Storage and Shared Notes for Proof

A good file structure might be:

College Move-In/
├── Housing Contract/
├── Room Photos/
├── Damage Report/
├── Receipts/
├── Appliance Rules/
└── Move-Out Notes/
``

Use a private folder for sensitive documents and a separate shared folder for roommate items. The [Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency](https://www.cisa.gov/topics/cyber-threats-and-advisories) provides guidance on account security and safe digital practices.

### Move-Out Reminders That Protect Your Security Deposit

Add reminders months in advance:

- Recheck the original damage photos.
- Remove adhesive hooks correctly.
- Empty drawers and refrigerator.
- Clean surfaces.
- Return keys.
- Photograph the empty room.
- Submit the move-out form.
- Save confirmation.

The “future you” who is exhausted, late, and surrounded by boxes will be grateful.

## App Privacy, Security, and Data Protection

### What Personal Information Dorm Checklist Apps Collect

App privacy labels may include:

- Contact information
- User-generated content
- Identifiers
- Usage data
- Diagnostics
- Purchase or account information

The DormDibs summary supplied for this article identifies contact information, user content, identifiers, usage data, and diagnostics as data that may be collected and linked to the user. Check the current [Apple App Store privacy details](https://www.apple.com/legal/privacy/data/en/app-store/) and the developer’s policy before signing up.

### Data Linked to You and Account Permissions

Use the minimum necessary permissions:

- A checklist app does not usually need continuous location access.
- Contacts access should be optional where possible.
- Photo access can often be limited to selected images.
- Notifications should be enabled for deadlines but disabled for marketing if unnecessary.
- Payment information should remain with the retailer or payment provider.

### Location Tracking, Contacts, Photos, and Notifications

Before granting access, ask:

1. Does the app need this permission for its core function?
2. Can I use selected photos instead of the full library?
3. Can I invite roommates by link instead of sharing contacts?
4. Can I disable location after move-in?
5. Can I delete the account and export my list?

The [Federal Trade Commission’s privacy guidance](https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-protect-your-privacy-online) is a sensible starting point.

### How to Review App Store Privacy Labels

Check:

- Data collected
- Data linked to you
- Data used for tracking
- Developer identity
- Privacy-policy link
- Recent update history
- Compatibility requirements

Privacy labels are disclosures, not a guarantee that an app is perfect. Read the policy and use a unique password.

### Safe Sharing With Parents, Roomates, and Movers

Share:

✅ Item names
✅ Quantities
✅ Shopping links
✅ Room dimensions
✅ Arrival times, when necessary
✅ Non-sensitive room photos

Do not share:

❌ Passwords
❌ Payment-card details
❌ Passport numbers
❌ Student account credentials
❌ Full medical records
❌ Building access codes publicly

## Accessibility and Inclusive Dorm Planning

### Voice Input, Screen Readers, and Large-Text Support

Look for apps that support:

- Screen readers
- Keyboard navigation
- Voice dictation
- Large text
- Strong contrast
- Clear status labels
- Reminders that can be adjusted
- Non-color indicators

A red/green system alone is not accessible. Use words such as **needed**, **claimed**, and **complete**.

### Color Contrast, Reminders, and Low-Stress Task Design

Reduce cognitive load by:

- Limiting the number of categories
- Creating one “next action”
- Using short task names
- Grouping tasks by location
- Avoiding unnecessary notifications
- Adding rest and travel time
- Sharing responsibility instead of assigning everything to one person

The [Web Content Accessibility Guidelines](https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/) provide broader principles for readable, perceivable digital experiences.

### Planning for Mobility, Sensory, Dietary, and Medical Needs

Add specific tasks for:

- Accessible parking and routes
- Elevator access
- Bed height and transfer space
- Quiet-room preferences
- Medication storage
- Dietary equipment
- Service-animal supplies
- Emergency communication
- Accommodation-office contacts

Contact the university’s disability or accessibility services before move-in. A checklist works best when it reflects the student’s actual needs rather than a generic dorm stereotype.

## Using a Dorm Move-In App Across Regions

### The United States and Canada: Campus Housing and Residence Life

Common planning needs include:

- Timed move-in appointments
- Twin XL bedding
- Residence-hall appliance restrictions
- Parking and unloading instructions
- Meal-plan activation
- Room-condition reports
- Shared bathrooms or suite kitchens

Rules vary by school, so use official housing guidance first. Canadian campuses may have different bedding, electrical, and housing arrangements.

### Europe: University Halls and Student Accommodation

Students may encounter:

- Single rooms with shared kitchens
- Furnished rooms with different bedding sizes
- Laundries managed through university systems
- Private student-acommodation contracts
- Different plug and voltage standards
- More compact storage

Record local measurements and electrical requirements rather than importing a U.S.-specific list.

### Asia Pacific: Residential Colleges and Shared Housing

Planning can involve:

- Residential colleges
- Hostel-style rooms
- Shared kitchens
- Regional climate needs
- Local appliance standards
- Different move-in documentation

A task app remains useful, but product recommendations should be localized.

### Africa, the Middle East, and India: Hostel and Campus Move-In Planning

Students may need to plan for:

- Hostel rules
- Shared bathrooms
- Climate and ventilation
- Local transport
- Bedding supplied by the institution
- Power reliability and approved backup options
- Storage security

Confirm rules directly with the institution and avoid assuming imported products are compatible with local power systems.

### Latin America and the Caribbean: Local Packing and Housing Considerations

Consider:

- Climate
- Campus transport
- Furnished versus unfurnished rooms
- Local availability of storage and bedding
- Shared-house arrangements
- Regional electrical standards
- Family-assisted move-in logistics

The best app is the one that supports your language, device, connectivity, and household arrangements.

## What’s New in College Move-In Checklist Apps

### AI Packing Suggestions and Smart Task Generation

AI can generate categories and suggest tasks, but verify every recommendation against:

- Official housing rules
- Room dimensions
- Climate
- Personal health needs
- Existing furniture
- Your actual budget and storage

An AI may suggest a waffle maker. The housing office may suggest absolutely not.

### Calendar Integration, Widgets, and Push Notifications

Useful integrations include:

- Move-in appointment
- Shipping arrival
- Donation pickup
- Packing deadlines
- Parent shopping reminders
- Roomate meetings
- Orientation events

Use notifications strategically. A phone that buzzes 47 times a day becomes easy to ignore.

### Barcode Scanning, Receipt Storage, and Digital Inventories

Receipt and inventory features can help with:

- Warranty documentation
- Returns
- Insurance records
- Shared-cost evidence
- Serial numbers
- Move-out tracking

Store receipts in a private folder, especially when they contain addresses or payment information.

### Offline Mode and Cross-Device Synchronization

Before departure, test:

1. Can you open the list without Wi-Fi?
2. Can you mark an item complete offline?
3. Does it sync after reconnecting?
4. Can a roommate access the list on another platform?
5. Can you export or print it?

If the answer to the last question is no, create a backup.

## How to Choose the Right Dorm Checklist App

### Essential Features to Look For

Prioritize:

- Shared lists
- Assignments
- Due dates
- Recurring tasks
- Notes and attachments
- Search
- Offline access
- Export or print
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Privacy controls

### Free Versus Premium Checklist Features

A free app may be enough for:

- Personal packing
- Basic shopping
- Simple reminders

Premium or specialized tools may be worthwhile for:

- Multiple collaborators
- Advanced databases
- Spending reports
- Automated integrations
- Custom templates
- Receipt storage

Do not pay for complexity you will not use.

### iOS, Android, Web, and Cross-Platform Compatibility

Before choosing, ask every roommate which devices they use. A beautiful iPhone-only app will not solve a group problem if half the group uses Android.

### Reminders, Recurring Tasks, and Due-Date Controls

Look for reminders that support:

- Exact deadlines
- Recurring chores
- Location triggers
- Priority levels
- Calendar views
- Snoze controls

### Sharing, Collaboration, and Family Access

The ideal app lets you choose between:

- Full editing access
- Comment-only access
- View-only access
- Browser access
- Temporary links

Parents may need shopping access without seeing private roommate conversations.

### Exporting, Printing, and Backing Up Your Checklist

A good backup package includes:

- Printable master list
- First-night list
- Shared-purchase list
- Room inspection checklist
- Important phone numbers
- Parking and arrival instructions

## Common Dorm Move-In App Mistakes

### Packing Everything Instead of Checking Campus Rules

❌ Buying first and reading rules later
✅ Read the residence handbook before shopping

### Ignoring What the Dorm Already Provides

❌ Packing a microwave before checking the common kitchen
✅ Ask housing for a furniture and appliance inventory

### Forgeting Move-In Appointments and Parking Instructions

❌ Treating move-in day like an open house
✅ Add the appointment, unloading zone, and check-in location as separate tasks

### Relying on a Phone Without Offline Access

❌ Assuming campus Wi-Fi will be perfect
✅ Print, screenshot, and download essential details

### Buying Bulky Items Before Measuring the Room

❌ Ordering a large chair because it looked good online
✅ Measure doorways, bed clearance, desk width, and storage space

## Moving Day Logistics and Dorm Delivery Tips

### Packing the First-Night Dorm Essentials Bag

Use a brightly labeled bag containing bedding, toiletries, medication, chargers, documents, snacks, and a change of clothes. Load it last so it comes out first.

### Labeling Boxes by Room, Category, and Priority

Use labels such as:

- BEDING — OPEN FIRST
- BATHROOM — DAY ONE
- DESK — STUDY SETUP
- SHARED — ROOMATE
- STORAGE — OPEN LATER

Color coding helps, but words matter more than colors.

### Elevator, Cart, Parking, and Loading Zone Strategy

Before arrival:

- Confirm appointment time.
- Identify the unloading zone.
- Know whether carts require a deposit.
- Keep keys and ID accessible.
- Load heavy bins low.
- Keep fragile electronics separated.
- Assign one person to the vehicle and one to the room.

### When to Hire Professional College Movers

Professional movers may help when:

- The campus is far away.
- The family vehicle is too small.
- There are stairs or long walks.
- A student has mobility limitations.
- Furniture needs disassembly.
- Storage is required between terms.

Check mover licensing and reviews through your state agency and the [Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/consumer-protection).

### Shipping Dorm Supplies Instead of Driving Them

Shipping can work for non-urgent items, but verify:

- Residence-hall receiving dates
- Package limits
- Student ID requirements
- Storage duration
- Delivery address format
- Liability for lost or damaged packages

Mark package tracking tasks in the app and save confirmation numbers.

## Dorm Move-In Budget and Shopping Planner

### Separating Must-Haves, Nice-to-Haves, and Skip-It Items

Use three levels:

| Priority | Examples |
|---|---|
| Must-have | Bedding, medication, ID, chargers, toiletries |
| Nice-to-have | Decorative lighting, extra storage, throw blanket |
| Skip or delay | Bulky decor, duplicate kitchen tools, rarely used appliances |

### Tracking Purchases, Receipts, and Shared Expenses

For shared purchases, record:

- Buyer
- Item
- Date
- Receipt
- Amount paid
- Shares owed
- Reimbursement status

Do not rely on memory. Memory becomes surprisingly creative around shared expenses.

### Buying New, Used, Rented, or Borrowed Dorm Supplies

Consider used or borrowed options for:

- Storage bins
- Lamps
- Fans
- Rugs
- Small furniture
- Textbooks
- Hand tools

Buy new when hygiene, safety, or warranty matters, such as mattress protectors, medication supplies, and certain electrical products.

### Avoiding Duplicate Purchases With a Roomate

A shared app must show both **claimed** and **purchased** status. “I’m bringing it” is not the same as “It is in my car.”

## Dorm Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule

### Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Dorm Room Tasks

**Daily:**

- Clear food and trash
- Put belongings away
- Wipe spills

**Weekly:**

- Empty trash
- Clean desk and high-touch surfaces
- Do laundry
- Check food expiration

**Monthly:**

- Clean under the bed
- Review supplies
- Report maintenance problems
- Update inventory

### Laundry Reminders and Shared Bathroom Routines

Set recurring reminders for laundry and agree on bathroom expectations. A timer prevents the classic laundry-room dispute: one forgotten load occupying the machine for six hours.

### Mold, Food Waste, and Pest Prevention

- Dry wet towels.
- Remove food waste promptly.
- Avoid storing open food.
- Clean spills immediately.
- Report leaks and dampness.
- Do not block vents.
- Follow residence-hall pest guidance.

### Reporting Maintenance Problems to Housing Staff

Document:

- Date and time
- Location
- Description
- Photos
- Prior reports
- Confirmation number

Use the official portal rather than relying only on a text to a friend.

## Quick Tips for a Smother College Move-In

### The Three-List Method: Bring, Buy, and Borrow

Create three lists:

- **Bring:** items already at home
- **Buy:** items best purchased near campus
- **Borrow:** items available from family, roommates, or housing

This prevents paying to transport items that are cheaper and easier to obtain after arrival.

### Use Checkboxes by Priority, Not Panic

Add priorities:

- Critical before leaving
- Needed first night
- Needed first week
- Optional later

The goal is not to complete the longest list. The goal is to make the room functional.

### Keep a Digital Copy of Every Important Document

Store housing confirmations, receipts, damage photos, and arrival details in an organized private folder. Back up the folder before leaving home.

### Pack Light Enough to Leave Room for Campus Life

The first video’s best advice is simple: **bring what you will use frequently**. A dorm room is not a warehouse, and your future self may discover that college life requires less stuff than TikTok suggested.

## FAQ About College Dorm Move-In Checklist Apps

### Can a dorm move-in checklist app help track purchases and packing progress?

Yes. Use status labels such as **needed**, **claimed**, **ordered**, **delivered**, **packed**, and **in room**. Apps such as DormDibs, Todoist, Trello, Notion, and AnyList can support this workflow.

For shared items, assign one owner and record the purchase receipt. A list that only says “microwave” is incomplete; a useful list says “microwave — Roomate B — confirm housing approval — not purchased.”

### What essentials are commonly forgotten when moving into a college dorm?

Students frequently overlook:

- Mattress protector
- Shower shoes
- Long charging cable
- Medication
- Rain jacket
- Laundry supplies
- Small first-aid kit
- Important documents
- Room inspection photos
- Trash bags
- Snacks for the first night

Our movers also see students forget scissors, hangers, and a towel. The glamorous details of campus life are surprisingly absorbent.

### How can roommates share a college dorm move-in checklist?

Create a shared list, invite roommates with a link, and assign ownership to every communal item. DormDibs uses a “Dibs” model; Trello, Todoist, Google Keep, and Apple Reminders use shared lists or boards.

Set a rule: **an item is not considered covered until someone claims it and marks it purchased or packed**.

### Are there free college dorm packing checklist apps?

Yes. Google Keep, Microsoft To Do, Google Tasks, Apple Reminders, and free tiers of several general task apps can handle basic packing.

#### What should a free app include?

At minimum:

- Shared access
- Checkboxes
- Categories
- Notes
- Due dates
- Export or screenshot capability

### What should I pack for college dorm move-in day?

Pack a first-night bag with:

- Bedding
- Toiletries
- Towel
- Medication
- Charger
- Documents
- Change of clothes
- Water and snacks
- Basic cleaning supplies

Keep it separate from boxes that can remain closed until the room is organized.

### How can a checklist app help organize college dorm move-in day?

Use separate sections for:

1. Arrival and check-in
2. Room inspection
3. First-night essentials
4. Shared roommate items
5. Shopping after arrival
6. Maintenance reports
7. Move-out reminders

Add times and locations to the arrival tasks, not just general notes.

### What is the best college dorm move-in checklist app?

**DormDibs is our best purpose-built recommendation for iPhone roommate coordination.** It earns a 9/10 for shared dorm functionality, Dibs assignments, parent shopping access, spending visibility, and store-based shopping organization.

For cross-platform flexibility, choose Todoist, Google Keep, Microsoft To Do, or Notion depending on how much customization you want.

### Is there a checklist app that syncs with roommates for dorm move-in planning?

Yes. DormDibs, Todoist, Google Keep, Apple Reminders, AnyList, OurHome, Trello, and Notion can support shared planning in different ways.

Check device compatibility first. A synchronized list is only useful when every roommate can access and update it.

### How do checklist apps improve organization during college move-in day?

They reduce ambiguity by showing:

- Who is responsible
- What has been purchased
- What is packed
- What is still missing
- Which deadlines are approaching
- Where receipts and photos are stored

That visibility reduces duplicate shopping and frantic group-chat searches.

### Can a checklist app help me avoid forgetting essential dorm items?

Yes, especially when you divide the checklist by room and urgency. Use recurring reminders for documents, medication, chargers, bedding, and arrival instructions.

Do not copy a generic list without checking your residence-hall rules. The best checklist is customized to your campus.

### What features should I look for in a dorm move-in checklist app?

Look for:

- Shared lists
- Item ownership
- Status tracking
- Due dates
- Notes and attachments
- Budget or spending fields
- Offline or export capability
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Privacy controls
- Browser access for parents

### Are there free college dorm move-in checklist apps available?

Yes. Free options include Google Keep, Microsoft To Do, Google Tasks, Apple Reminders, and entry-level plans from several task-management services.

A free app is enough when your needs are simple. A specialized app becomes more valuable when roommates must coordinate purchases, spending, and parent assistance.

### How can a checklist app simplify my college dorm move-in process?

Build the process in phases:

1. Research housing rules.
2. Create personal and shared lists.
3. Assign items.
4. Set shopping and packing deadlines.
5. Prepare a first-night bag.
6. Record room condition.
7. Update the list after arrival.

This turns one intimidating project into small, visible actions.

### What are the best apps for college dorm move-in checklists?

Our practical shortlist:

- **DormDibs:** best purpose-built roommate coordination
- **Todoist:** best flexible project planning
- **Google Keep:** best simple shared notes
- **Microsoft To Do:** best straightforward task list
- **Notion:** best custom dashboard
- **AnyList:** best shared shopping list
- **Trello:** best visual workflow
- **Apple Reminders:** best built-in iPhone option
- **Google Tasks:** best deadline list for Google users
- **OurHome:** best for recurring shared chores

### Should I use more than one checklist app?

Usually, use one main app and one backup system. For example:

- DormDibs for shared purchases
- Google Drive for photos and documents
- Calendar for timed appointments
- Printed first-night list for move-in day

Using five overlapping apps can create five versions of the truth.

### How do I protect privacy when sharing a dorm checklist?

Share shopping and packing information, but keep passwords, payment data, government IDs, and medical records private. Review app permissions, use a unique password, and enable multifactor authentication when available.

### What should I do if my roommate will not use the checklist app?

Create a simple browser or printable version with only the essentials:

- Item
- Owner
- Deadline
- Status
- Notes

Make participation easy. A roommate is more likely to answer one clear question than complete a 60-field database.

### How can I use a dorm checklist app after move-in?

Keep it active for:

- Cleaning schedules
- Shared purchases
- Maintenance reports
- Laundry reminders
- Move-out inspection
- Storage inventory
- Returning borrowed items

The app should evolve from a packing list into a lightweight household system.

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