The end of term arrives fast. Between exams and a noon checkout, nobody wants to haul a mini fridge down the hall. This guide covers what UBC and SFU residences say about donating and leaving things behind, and then what to do with leftovers if you live in an off campus house.
If you live in UBC residence
UBC's Mindful Move Out page says to sort belongings into keep, donate or recycle. It says residents can donate items at residence donation zones starting in early April, and it lists the categories where clean and functional items can go:
- Electronics
- Textiles such as sheets and clothing
- Household items such as small appliances, kitchen things, dishware, storage containers, mini fridges, shoe racks and lamps
- Non perishable food that is not expired and does not need a fridge
- Books and school supplies
UBC says items should be clean and in good condition. It also mentions textile donation bins in residence waste rooms and says broken, soiled or ripped items that cannot be recycled belong in the garbage. Used batteries are not accepted in the donation zones, but UBC says they can be recycled at locations across campus. Bikes can be donated to The Bike Kitchen in the Life Building, according to UBC.
Dates change each year. As of November 3, 2026, UBC's page still lists the spring 2026 Move Out Weekend (April 24 to April 26, 2026, with rooms cleaned and vacated by 12 p.m. on April 26), so next year's dates are not posted yet. Check UBC's Moving Out page for the current dates.
If you live in SFU residence
SFU's move out page says to remove all garbage and recycling, and that any items left behind may result in a charge. It lists a Garbage Map PDF. It also says residence does not provide on campus or off campus storage for students moving in, moving out or staying between terms, and that students are responsible for arranging their own storage.
SFU lists a fall move out date of December 21, 2026 by 12 p.m. for undergraduate and graduate housing, and says late fees apply. Check the page for the current term.
SFU's move out page does not list a donation program.
Off campus: houses, basement suites and shared apartments
If you rent a room in a shared house, you are on your own for leftovers, and so is your landlord. Here is a simple order:
- Donate or sell what works. Furniture, kitchen items and electronics may find a new owner. The City of Vancouver's pop up recycling events accept some items for reuse, including bedding, towels, bags and books, but they do not accept furniture or large and bulky items, mattresses, toys or suitcases.
- Recycle what has a program. The City's pop up events accept electronics, small household appliances, household batteries and light bulbs, among other items.
- Take large items to a facility. The City says if large items like mattresses, furniture and appliances are not reusable, take them to the Zero Waste Centre, transfer station or landfill. Fees may apply.
- Put the rest in the garbage. Check your own city's rules for carts and extra garbage.
A shared bin for the house
If a whole house is moving out at once, a bin can save several car trips. One person orders for a shared bin, so decide who that is. Get the landlord's okay first, and check that the property has room.
We deliver the bin, you load it, and Trash King hauls it away.
The usual starting point for junk, cleanouts and renos is the 20-yard. A 15-yard junk bin is at times available, though it is commonly sold out, so plan around the 20-yard. Other smaller sizes? Ask when you book. More is on the 20-yard bin page.
On private property, like your driveway or yard, a bin takes no permit. Some cities need a permit for a bin on the street, boulevard or lane, so confirm with your City before you book. Check any strata or HOA rules as well, since they can still apply. If yours does, apply with the City, and we time delivery to any permit dates.
Trash King bins never take paint, propane, tires, fuel or electronics. Our what not to put in a bin page has the complete list.
Mattresses and box springs cost extra as an add on. Mention them when you book.
Our household garbage page covers more on cleanouts.
A short move out checklist
- Sort into keep, donate, recycle and garbage
- Check the donation and recycling rules for each item
- Book storage early, since your residence will not provide it
- Clean the room
- Arrange a bin or a facility run for the rest
FAQ
Can I leave my old stuff in the residence room? SFU says items left behind may result in a charge. UBC says to clean and vacate the unit.
Does UBC take donations? UBC's Mindful Move Out page lists residence donation zones in early April for clean and functional items.
Where do mattresses go? They are not accepted at City pop up events. A bin can take one as an add on, mentioned when booking.
What size bin should a shared house order? Plan on the 20-yard, which is the common start. Other sizes? Ask when booking.