Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with a lot of expense. As someone who has been through the moving process myself, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep costs down. Whether you’re moving to another city or another country, these tips will help you save money and make the transition much smoother.

One of the best ways to save money on your move is to start planning as early as possible. The more time you have to organize, the better deals you can find on moving services, moving supplies, and transportation. Create a moving checklist and schedule to keep track of everything. This will help you avoid last-minute expenses and give you time to shop around for the best prices.

Believe me, I know the temptation to just throw everything into boxes, determined to “go through it all when we get there.” No! That’s a surefire way to overpay by taking way too many boxes of stuff, and worse, setting yourself up for an excruciating mess at the other end. Before you even think about packing, take some time to declutter your home.

Go through each room and decide what you really need to take with you. Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you no longer use or need. Hold a garage sale, sell things online, or donate them to charity. This will not only reduce the amount of stuff you have to move, but you might also earn some much-needed money along the way.

Buying boxes and packing materials can add up quickly—prices are rising daily. Instead, look for free alternatives. Check with local grocery stores, liquor stores, or big box retailers—they often have lots of sturdy boxes they’re willing to give away. Post a message in your local Nextdoor group (nextdoor.com). Getting rid of boxes and packing materials can be just as much of a hassle as getting them! You’ll be doing someone who recently moved a favor by taking their huge stash off their hands. Pro tip: You can also use towels, blankets, cloth napkins, pillowcases, and old newspapers to wrap fragile items, reducing the need for expensive bubble wrap.

Hiring professional movers can be expensive. If you’re up to the challenge, consider doing the move yourself. Rent a truck and enlist the help of friends and family. You can offer to bring pizza and drinks if they help you. Not only will this save money, but it can also make moving day a fun, collaborative effort.

If you decide to hire a professional moving company, don’t settle for the first quote. Take the time to compare prices from several companies. Look for reviews and ask friends or relatives who have recently moved for recommendations. Be sure to check for hidden fees and ask about insurance options to protect your belongings during the move.

Moving companies tend to be busiest during the summer months, which means higher prices. If you’re flexible, try to schedule your move during the off-season (fall, winter, or spring). You’ll find that prices are often lower and moving companies are more willing to negotiate prices.

Get creative with packing and use the things you already have. Suitcases, laundry baskets and storage containers can be used to transport your belongings. This will save you from having to buy extra boxes and will allow you to pack more efficiently. And if you use what you have, you’ll have fewer things to unpack and put away once you’re settled into your new home.

To avoid unnecessary costs, let your utility companies, internet provider and other service providers know you’re moving well in advance. This will give you time to plan for the disconnection and avoid paying for services you no longer use. It’s also a good idea to transfer or cancel subscriptions and memberships you no longer need in your new location.

Strategic packing can save you time and money. Pack non-essential items first and leave the most important ones for last. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier. Pack heavier items in smaller boxes to avoid them becoming too bulky, and fill empty spaces with lighter items to make the most of space.

Some moving expenses may be tax deductible. If your move is work-related, you may be able to deduct certain expenses from your taxes. Keep receipts for all moving expenses and consult a tax professional to see if you qualify for deductions.

Many companies offer discounts for various moving services. Check to see if your employer offers moving assistance or if memberships (such as AAA or AARP) qualify you for discounts. Some truck rental companies and storage facilities offer discounts if you book online or during off-peak hours.

When you move out of a rental property (house, condo, apartment, dorm room), there is one more task you need to complete: get all security deposits back without any questions or hassle. I’ve written a complete guide for you at EverydayCheapskate.com/moving-out-how-to-get-my-security-deposit-back with specific steps, guidelines, and tips so you don’t forget anything!

Moving doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With focused, proactive, detailed planning and creativity, you can reduce costs and make your move more affordable. Remember, every little bit counts, and these savings can add up quickly.