Moving is considered one of the most stressful life events. Choosing a reputable moving company is one crucial step to reduce the stress. Reducing costs during your move is another. If your moving company quotes by the cubic feet (as opposed to by the pound), read on to learn five invaluable packing hacks that will save you time, money, and sanity.

1. Get Creative with Packing Material

Let’s face it – you’re going to have to move those T-shirts, towels, and washcloths anyway, so why not use them to cushion breakables like glassware, plates, and vases? Just remember that by keeping your box type consistent, you’ll be able to stack them higher, saving on space. Plus, there’s less chance that they’ll get knocked over en route.

2. Pack Books in Rolling Luggage

Again, this is a matter of both items having to get to the same destination so why not combine them? Books are usually some of the heaviest, bulkiest items to transport, but placing them in a suitcase with wheels makes it exponentially easier.

3. Wrap Electric Cords in Empty Paper Towel and Toilet Paper Rolls

A few months before your move, start setting these aside. While this won’t necessarily save packing space, it will save your sanity when it comes time to unpack your electronics. Also, take a picture of the back of your TV before you start unplugging everything, so you’ll know how to set it back up once you get to your new place.

4. Transfer Seasonal Items to Plastic Bins

While cardboard moving boxes are durable, using them more than three times risks your belongings. A better plan is to store items you plan on keeping long-term in storage bins. More durable than cardboard boxes, plastic containers are ideal for items that you’ll pull out seasonally or when the holiday rolls each year. Plus, storage bins are a good choice in case something catastrophic happens during transport; your items will stay protected from the elements longer than in a cardboard box. Just remember to tape the plastic bin to keep it closed.

5. Turn to Craigslist to Find Your Moving Boxes

Dozens of people are moving in your town at any given moment, and people want to get rid of their boxes as soon as they empty them. That’s where Craigslist comes in. Before you start running from store to store begging for mismatched boxes or spend money on brand-new boxes, check on the free section of Craigslist to see if anyone has gently used moving boxes. Remember to pay it forward; when you finish moving by posting the boxes for the next person.