You’ve finally found the perfect place, but now comes the dreaded part: moving. After spending thousands on a down payment or rental deposit, it’s only natural to look for ways to cut costs during the move.

While some expenses — like gas or a moving truck rental — are unavoidable, there are plenty of ways to save. For example, you don’t need to spend a dime on moving boxes or bubble wrap. Below, we’ll explain how you can pack up and move your belongings without breaking the bank. 

For more moving tips, here’s how to safely lift heavy boxes and furniture. Also, check out the best moving companies for 2025 and six common moving day mistakes to watch out for.

1. Get rid of things you don’t need

Before you start packing, take time to sort through your belongings and decide what you no longer need. That old phone you’ve kept for years? You could sell it on a site like Decluttr and put the money toward your move.

Still hanging on to those hand-me-down blankets your mom gave you a decade ago when you moved into your first apartment? It might be time to donate them to a thrift store or pass them along to a younger relative.

The more you declutter, the fewer boxes you’ll need, and you might even be able to rent a smaller, cheaper moving truck as a result. Plus, selling valuable items can help offset some of your moving expenses.

2. Consider a DIY move to save loads of cash

Paying someone to help you move can easily double the cost of an already expensive venture. Depending on where you live, movers may charge nearly $200 an hour. Instead, call in some favors and ask your friends and family to help you pack your things. The more people you can find to help, the less time you’ll spend wrapping your plates in newspaper.

If you have any friends with trucks or trailers, now would be a great time to ask if they could help you transport your stuff — assuming you’re not moving across the country. 

Borrowing a free truck could mean you don’t need to rent a moving truck. Truck rentals usually won’t cost much up front, but you still have to pay a fee per mile and supply the gas.

3. Opt to move midweek or during the off-season 

That’s pretty specific, isn’t it? While you may not always have full control over your moving date, choosing the right time can save you money. Peak moving season runs from May through summer, when lots of students are moving post-grad, which also means higher prices for moving services.

If you have flexibility, consider moving during the off-season, anytime from fall through early spring. It’s typically more affordable.

It’s also worth noting that weekdays are usually cheaper for hiring movers or renting a truck. Weekends tend to come with higher rates due to increased demand.

4. Strategize for free packing supplies 

Why pay for boxes when you can get them for free? Use a social media site like Nextdoor or Facebook Marketplace to ask people in your neighborhood for boxes. People are usually happy to get rid of boxes they’ve had lying around, waiting to be recycled. 

Speaking of recycling, check with your local recycling center to see if they have any boxes you can take for free. Those Amazon boxes you get every week can also be reused.

What about bubble wrap? You can skip it. Use items you already have in your house to protect your fragile items. For instance, you can wrap your plates and glasses in towels, pillowcases or clothes — thick socks are great for small valuables. You can also protect your stuff from breaking with layers of grocery bags. 

Something you will likely need to purchase is packing tape, but it’s a necessary expense, especially when you don’t have to pay for any other packing supplies for your move. 

5. Get quotes from several moving companies

If you absolutely need to rent a moving truck or hire professional movers, check around and get quotes from multiple companies. Some may offer lower per-mile rates or a cheaper base rate for renting a moving vehicle.

If you’re opting to go with a moving company, to get a better idea of the price you’ll pay, don’t let them give you a ballpark estimate of how much your move will cost you. Take the time to get a photo inventory of the things you plan to move and let them give you an assessment based on that. From there, get the quote in writing so you have something to show them if they try to charge you more than what you were initially quoted. 

If you book and prepay early, you may even be able to get a lower rate — especially if you’re planning on packing up during peak moving season.

6. Plan well in advance

If you know a move is on the horizon, start planning several months ahead. Getting an early start can help you lock in the best rates for moving trucks and professional movers, and gives you plenty of time to shop around for deals on supplies. Packing nonessential items early also spreads out the workload, making the days before your move far less stressful.

Ready for even more moving tips? Here’s how to clean your new home before you move in. Also, here are some tips to make your new house feel like home.