Where to Buy Moving Boxes: The Top Companies and Brands

By: Harrison Gough Last Updated: Sep 07, 2023

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Looking for moving boxes but not sure where to start? Our complete list covers all the best places to find moving boxes, whether you're looking for free options or willing to pay for high-quality boxes.

Best online shopping

4.9


Box Engine

  • Professionalism
  • Great customer service
  • Affordable rates
Get a Quote N/A Read review

Most convenient

4.8


U-Haul

  • Highly Professional
  • No hidden fees
  • Budget-friendly pricing
Get a Quote 800-468-4285 Read review

Widest selection

4.7


The Home Depot

  • Customized services
  • Licensed and insured
  • Well-trained staff
Get a Quote 800-430-3376 Read review

When it comes to moving to a new home, having reliable and high-quality moving boxes is essential. Whether you’re looking for traditional cardboard boxes or more eco-friendly options, there are many companies and brands to choose from.

In this article, we’ll explore the top companies and brands where you can buy the best moving boxes at an affordable price.


How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?

On average, a standard-sized cardboard moving box can cost anywhere from $1 to $7, while specialty boxes or custom boxes may cost more.

The cost of moving boxes can vary depending on factors such as size, quantity, and material.

Type of Box Average Price Range
Small Cardboard Box $1 – $2 each
Medium Cardboard Box $2 – $3 each
Large Cardboard Box $3 – $5 each
Extra Large Cardboard Box $5 – $7 each
Specialty Boxes (e.g. wardrobe boxes, dish boxes) $5 – $15 each
Plastic Bins $20 – $40 each
Custom Boxes Varies depending on size and material

Some retailers also offer bulk discounts or package deals, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best price for your needs.


Key Criteria for Evaluating Where to Buy Moving Boxes

Before we dive into the list of the top companies and brands for moving boxes, let’s review the key criteria for evaluating your options:

  • Price: Moving boxes can be expensive, especially if you need a lot of them. Look for companies that offer affordable pricing, discounts for bulk purchases, and free or low-cost shipping.
  • Quality: You want to choose high-quality boxes that can withstand the weight of your belongings and keep them safe during the move.
  • Convenience: Moving can be a hectic and stressful time, so it’s important to choose a company that offers convenient options for ordering, delivery, and pickup.
  • Sustainability: If you’re environmentally conscious, you may want to choose a company that offers eco-friendly moving boxes that can be reused or recycled.

Comparing the Best Moving Box Companies

4.9 4.8 4.7 4.6 4.3
Best online shopping Most convenient Widest selection Most affordable Best quality
No discounts 10-15% off 20% off Free shipping 10-20% off
$3 - $5 (Avg. M-L Boxes) $2 - $5 (Avg. M-L Boxes) $2 - $4 (Avg. M-L Boxes) $2.5 - $4 (Avg. M-L Boxes) $2-$3 (Avg. M-L Boxes)
Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote Get a Quote

Top Places to Buy Moving Boxes

  1. Box Engine
  2. U-Haul
  3. Home Depot
  4. Used Cardboard Boxes
  5. Lowes Moving Boxes
  6. Amazon

You tend to buy what you want in terms of sizes, materials, and quality. Luckily, every store selling cardboard boxes also has other shipping and packing supplies for sale.

So, you can have your moving shopping in one place.

1

Best online shopping

4.9

Box Engine

  • Affordable rates
  • Professionalism
  • Great customer service

Box Engine is a top-rated provider of high-quality moving boxes and packing supplies.

They offer a wide range of box sizes and types, as well as other packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape.

Their products are made from 100% recycled materials and are highly durable, ensuring that your belongings stay safe during the move.

Box Engine also offers free shipping on orders over $50 and has a convenient online ordering system that allows you to track your shipment in real-time.


  • Offers high-quality moving boxes made from 100% recycled materials
  • Competitive pricing
  • Free shipping on orders over $50
  • Convenient online ordering system
  • Durable and safe moving boxes
  • Limited range of box sizes and types compared to other companies
  • No physical store locations

2

Most convenient

4.8

U-Haul

  • Highly Professional
  • No hidden fees
  • Budget-friendly pricing

U-Haul is a well-known company that provides moving trucks and storage units, but they also offer moving boxes and packing supplies.

They have a wide range of box sizes and types, as well as other packing materials such as mattress bags and furniture pads.

U-Haul boxes are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be stackable and easy to transport.

They offer free shipping on orders over $50 and have over 22,000 locations nationwide where you can pick up your boxes.


  • Wide range of box sizes and types
  • Other packing materials available
  • High-quality materials and stackable design
  • Free shipping on orders over $50
  • Over 22,000 pickup locations nationwide
  • Shipping can be expensive for orders under $50
  • No buy-back program for unused boxes
  • Not as competitively priced as some other companies

3

Widest selection

4.7

The Home Depot

  • Customized services
  • Licensed and insured
  • Well-trained staff

The Home Depot is a popular home improvement store that also offers moving boxes and packing supplies.

They have a wide range of box sizes and types, as well as other packing materials such as foam pouches and packing peanuts.

The Home Depot’s boxes are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be sturdy and durable.

They offer free in-store pickup, or you can have your boxes shipped to your home for a fee.


  • Wide range of box sizes and types
  • Other packing materials available
  • High-quality materials and durable design
  • Free in-store pickup option
  • Competitive pricing
  • Shipping can be expensive for home delivery
  • No buy-back program for unused boxes
  • Limited online reviews for their boxes compared to other companies

4

Most affordable

4.6

Used Cardboard Boxes

  • Responsive customer service
  • Personalized packages
  • Flexible cancellation policy

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Used Cardboard Boxes are a great choice. They offer high-quality used boxes that are still in great condition at a fraction of the cost of new boxes.

Used Cardboard Boxes has locations across the country, and you can also order online and have your boxes shipped to you.

Their boxes are thoroughly inspected for quality and are guaranteed to meet your needs. They offer a variety of box sizes and types and are committed to sustainability and reducing waste.


  • Affordable option for those on a tight budget
  • High-grade used boxes thoroughly inspected for quality
  • Guaranteed to meet your needs
  • Committed to sustainability and reducing waste
  • Limited range of box sizes and types compared to other companies
  • Limited physical store locations
  • No free shipping option

5

Best quality

4.3

Lowes Moving Boxes

  • Transparent pricing
  • Budget prices
  • Well-trained staff

Lowes is another popular home improvement store that offers moving boxes and packing supplies.

They have a wide range of box sizes and types, as well as other packing materials such as packing paper and foam sheets.

Lowes boxes are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be durable and easy to carry.

They offer free in-store pickup, or you can have your boxes shipped to your home for a fee.


  • Wide range of box sizes and types
  • Other packing materials available
  • High-quality materials and durable design
  • Free in-store pickup option
  • Competitive pricing
  • Shipping can be expensive for home delivery
  • No buy-back program for unused boxes
  • Limited online reviews for their boxes compared to other companies

6

Most reliable

4.4

Amazon

  • Responsive customer service
  • Transparent pricing
  • Free quotes

Amazon is a great place to shop for moving boxes and packing supplies. They have a wide selection of box sizes and types, as well as other packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape.

Amazon offers free shipping on eligible orders over $25 for Prime members, or you can choose expedited shipping for an additional fee.

Their boxes are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be durable and easy to use.


  • Wide range of box sizes and types from multiple brands
  • Other packing materials available
  • Free shipping on eligible orders over $25 for Prime members
  • Expedited shipping options available
  • Convenient online ordering and shipping
  • Quality can vary depending on the brand of the box selected
  • No buy-back program for unused boxes
  • Not as competitively priced as some other companies


Expert Tips for Packing and Storing Moving Boxes

1. How to Pack and Store Moving Boxes Effectively

When it comes to packing and storing your moving boxes, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

  • Use the right size box for the items you’re packing. Overpacking a box can make it difficult to move and can even cause the box to break or collapse.
  • Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes. This will make it easier to carry and transport your boxes.
  • Fill any empty spaces in your boxes with packing paper or foam sheets to prevent items from shifting during transport.
  • Label each box with its contents and the room it should be placed in at your new home.

When it comes to storing your boxes, it’s important to keep them in a dry, cool place to prevent any damage or deterioration. Avoid storing boxes in areas that are prone to moisture or extreme temperatures, such as basements or attics.

2. Ways to Reuse or Recycle Moving Boxes after the Move is Complete

Once your move is complete, you may be wondering what to do with all of your leftover moving boxes. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Use your boxes for storage in your new home. They can be used to store seasonal items, extra linens, or other household items.
  • Recycle your boxes through your local recycling program.

3. Advice for Dealing with Issues or Challenges During the Moving Process

Despite your best efforts, issues or challenges may arise during the moving process. Here are a few tips for dealing with common issues:

  • If a box breaks or is damaged during transport, transfer the items to a new box as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
  • If you have trouble lifting or carrying a heavy box, ask for help or consider using a dolly or other moving equipment.
  • If you have items that are particularly valuable or fragile, consider packing them separately or carrying them with you during the move.

4. A Detailed Comparison of Different Types of Moving Boxes: Cardboard vs. Plastic

When it comes to choosing the right moving boxes, there are different types to consider. Cardboard boxes are a popular choice and are typically more affordable, but they may not be as durable as plastic boxes.

Plastic boxes are more expensive but can be reused multiple times and are more resistant to damage from water or humidity. Consider providing a detailed comparison of the pros and cons of each type to help readers make an informed decision.

5. A List of Recommended Packing Supplies and Tools

In addition to moving boxes, there are other packing supplies and tools that can make the moving process easier. Consider providing a list of recommended supplies, such as packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labeling boxes. You could also suggest tools like a hand truck or dolly to make it easier to move heavier items.

6. A Section on How to Properly Label and Organize Moving Boxes for Easy Unpacking

Labeling and organizing your moving boxes can make the unpacking process much easier. Consider providing tips on how to label boxes clearly and how to organize them based on room or category (e.g. kitchen items, bathroom items). You could also suggest using color-coded labels or creating a master list of what’s in each box to make it easier to find what you need.

7. Tips for Saving Money on Moving Boxes

Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to find ways to save money where you can. Consider providing tips on how to save money on moving boxes, such as looking for deals or sales from moving box retailers, checking Craigslist or other classified ads for secondhand boxes, or asking friends or family members if they have any boxes they’re not using.

8. A Discussion of Eco-Friendly Moving Box Options

If you’re environmentally conscious, you may be interested in eco-friendly moving box options. Consider using boxes made from recycled materials or boxes that can be reused multiple times. You could also use other eco-friendly packing materials, such as biodegradable packing peanuts or packing paper made from sustainable materials.


FAQ’s

Where can I buy moving boxes?

You can buy moving boxes from various sources such as home improvement stores, furniture stores, office supply stores, general retail stores, or online retailers.

Do long-distance movers offer moving boxes?

Yes, many long-distance movers offer moving boxes as part of their services. When you hire a professional long-distance moving company to assist with your relocation, they often provide a range of packing supplies, including moving boxes, to ensure a smooth and organized transition.

How much do moving boxes cost?

The cost of moving boxes depends on their size and the material they are made of. On average, moving boxes cost between $1 and $5 per box.

Can I rent moving boxes instead of buying them?

Yes, some companies offer moving box rentals as an alternative to buying them. This can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

What size moving boxes should I get?

The size of moving boxes you need depends on what items you will be packing. Small boxes are suitable for heavy items like books, while larger boxes can be used for lighter items like bedding and clothing.

How many moving boxes do I need?

The number of moving boxes you need will depend on the size of your home and how much stuff you have. A general rule of thumb is to have 10-20 boxes per room, but you may need more or less depending on your specific situation.


The Final Word: Expert Advice for a Stress-Free Move

In the end, finding the right moving boxes is crucial for a successful move. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a daunting task! By keeping in mind key criteria like box size and type, quality, price, and convenience, you can easily choose the perfect boxes for your move.

And with top companies like Box Engine, U-Haul, The Home Depot, Used Cardboard Boxes, Lowes Moving Boxes, and Amazon, you can rest assured that your boxes will be safe and high-quality.

Plus, with our expert tips on packing, labeling, and organizing your boxes, as well as ways to save money and be eco-friendly, you’ll have a stress-free move in no time. Best of luck with your move, and happy packing!