Move-in week at UCLA moves fast. Classes start September 24, which means you have about a week from move-in to get settled. This checklist covers everything from before you arrive to your first week in the unit.
Before You Arrive
Housing:
- ✅ Confirm your moving installment is paid in full — check your online portal. You cannot pick up keys until your balance is cleared
- ✅ Confirm whether your unit has a physical key (in-person pickup required) or digital access (welcome letter sent by email)
- ✅ Save your leasing agent's contact number
Practical:
- ✅ Book your flight or drive dates around your move-in date — Westwood traffic in September is heavy
- ✅ Arrange transportation from airport/storage to your unit — LAX to Westwood is 30–45 minutes depending on traffic
- ✅ Pack a first-night bag separately — bedding, toiletries, phone charger — in case the rest of your things take time to unpack
- ✅ Screenshot your WiFi password email before you land — you'll need it before you're connected
Documents:
- ✅ Have your ID ready for check-in verification
- ✅ Download or print your lease for reference
Move-In Day
At check-in:
- ✅ Show ID and confirm balance is cleared
- ✅ Sign your Moving Agreement on-site
- ✅ Receive your key packet — includes WiFi password, mailbox key info, and unit access details
- ✅ Note: do NOT set your door lock to the privacy/lockout mode — it will lock you out and cannot be opened by keypad. Your housing provider can unlock remotely but not always immediately, especially late at night
In your unit:
- ✅ Your unit comes fully furnished — bed, desk, chair, and shared kitchen appliances are ready
- ✅ Check that all furniture and appliances are in working order
- ✅ Begin your room condition inspection (required within 48 hours — see below)
Within 48 Hours of Moving In
- ✅ Complete your room inspection checklist and upload to the designated folder — scan the QR code in your unit for instructions
- ✅ If you're the first person in the unit: inspect kitchen and living room in addition to your bedroom and bathroom
- ✅ If roommates already moved in: inspect your bedroom and bathroom only
- ✅ Document any existing damage with photos before reporting
First Week Setup
Groceries — Westwood options:
- ✅ Trader Joe's — 1000 Glendon Ave, 5–10 min walk, best value for everyday items
- ✅ Ralphs — 10861 Weyburn Ave, 8–10 min walk, largest selection
- ✅ Whole Foods — 1050 S Gayley Ave, 5–8 min walk, organic and higher-end options
- ✅ Stop Market — 958 Gayley Ave, closest convenience store for quick essentials
Campus setup:
- ✅ Set up UCLA BruinCard (student ID) — needed for campus access and dining
- ✅ Download the UCLA Mobile app
- ✅ Register for BruinBus — free bus service around campus and Westwood
- ✅ Save UCLA Police Department number: (310) 825-1491
- ✅ Locate the nearest emergency phone to your unit
UCLA Move-In Timeline (Off-Campus)
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Now–August | Search and secure your unit |
| August | Sign lease, pay deposit, confirm move-in date |
| Early September | Arrange transportation, pack |
| September 11–16 | Earliest move-in window for most off-campus units |
| September 21 | Fall Quarter begins |
| September 24 | Classes begin |
Moving Into a Moo Housing Unit Near UCLA?
All Moo Housing UCLA properties are fully furnished and located in Westwood and Sawtelle — within walking distance of campus. Units for fall 2026 are available ahead of the official move-in window.
We currently have 1 month free rent on select units. Tell us your budget and move-in date and we'll match you directly.
