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Last Updated: Sep 07, 2023
Save big on your move with this complete guide on where to find free moving boxes. From retail stores to online platforms, we've got you covered.
Moving can be an expensive endeavor, but one way to cut costs is by finding free moving boxes. Where can you find free moving boxes? Look no further! We’ll guide you through the best places to source them, from retail locations to online platforms and other noteworthy spots.
In this article
Before diving into where to find free moving boxes, you should take some time to get to know your boxes in the first place. Not all boxes are created equal: each has its own purpose, and knowing what you need will make your search more efficient.
These versatile boxes come in small, medium, and large sizes. They’re suitable for packing a wide range of household items, from books to clothes to kitchen utensils.
Wardrobe boxes have a built-in hanging rod. These are perfect for transporting your clothing on hangers, and they’ll keep your shirts and slacks wrinkle-free during your move.
Ideal for mirrors, framed artwork, and other flat items, picture boxes provide extra protection and support for fragile, delicate pieces.
These boxes are designed to hold fragile items like glassware, dishes, and china. They typically feature thick walls and internal compartments for added protection.
Available in various sizes to accommodate different mattress types, mattress boxes protect your bed from dirt, moisture, dust, and damage during transport.
Custom boxes are a tailored solution for items with unique shapes or sizes. They may cost a little more, but they’ll really protect your belongings during the move.
If you want to score some free boxes, check your local strip mall or shopping center. Many retail locations discard boxes after receiving shipments. If you don’t mind asking around (or getting your hands a little dirty), you can find plenty of free packaging.
Grocery stores receive regular shipments and often have an abundance of boxes available. Reach out to your local store and ask about their box disposal schedule.
Liquor stores have strong, sturdy boxes, which are perfect for heavy items like books. Their boxes often have dividers that you can take or leave, so they’re great for packing fragile items too.
Big retailers like Walmart and Target discard tons of boxes daily. Visit the store during off-peak hours and ask a manager if they’re willing to donate some boxes to your cause.
Boxes from bookstores are designed to carry heavy loads and are ideal for packing your book collection or other weighty items.
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s typically have large, durable boxes for appliances and tools that can be repurposed for your move.
In today’s digital age, several online platforms can help you find free moving boxes near you.
Check the “Free” section on Craigslist for people giving away boxes in your area. You can also post a wanted ad to let others know you’re looking for boxes.
Freecycle is a grassroots network where people can give and receive free items, including moving boxes. Sign up for your local group and start searching.
Browse Facebook Marketplace for free moving boxes in your area. Join local buy/sell/trade groups, and you may find people willing to give away their boxes.
U-Haul’s Customer Connect box exchange program is designed to help people find and share moving supplies, including free boxes.
Like Freecycle, Letgo is another platform where users can list items for free. Check the site regularly for postings of free boxes.
OfferUp is a mobile marketplace where people can give away items they no longer need, including moving boxes.
If you’re searching for free boxes, don’t overlook these less obvious places:
Schools get a lot of supplies – whether it’s gym equipment, books, computers, or anything else – and all the boxes are ordinarily just tossed or recycled. Reach out to schools in your area and ask if they have any boxes you could take off their hands.
Events like festivals, farmers’ markets, or yard sales often have boxes they’re eager to dispose of. Attend local events and keep an eye out for free boxes.
Many cities have recycling drop-off points where you can find an array of boxes. Be sure to ask permission before digging around.
Businesses often have a steady supply of boxes of office supplies and equipment. Get in touch with nearby businesses and ask if they have any boxes to spare.
While collecting free boxes can save you money, it’s essential to follow these best practices to ensure you’re gathering quality boxes.
Always inspect boxes for signs of damage, wear, or pests. Avoid boxes that are damp, stained, or have a strong odor.
Make sure your boxes are sturdy enough to hold your items and are appropriately sized for what you plan to pack.
Organize your box collection schedule and make sure you have suitable transportation. You don’t want to reserve boxes without a way to pick them up!
Using free moving boxes isn’t just good for your wallet; it’s also great for the environment.
Reusing boxes reduces the number of boxes that end up in landfill, reducing overall waste.
Every reused box means one less new box produced, saving resources like trees and energy.
Using free boxes supports the circular economy, where products are reused and recycled as much as possible before disposal.
Despite their benefits, some myths about free moving boxes persist. Let’s debunk them.
Many people worry that free boxes won’t be as sturdy or reliable as new ones. However, many free boxes from places like liquor stores or bookstores are designed to carry heavy items and can be as good as or better than new boxes.
Another common myth is that finding free boxes takes too much time and effort. While it does require some planning, the savings can make it well worth your while. Don’t be afraid to make some calls and ask around.
Some people believe it’s illegal to take boxes from businesses. While you should always ask permission, many businesses are more than happy to give away their boxes rather than dispose of them.
While finding free boxes can be a boon, it’s essential to respect legal boundaries. We always recommend communicating clearly and asking permission beforehand, but keep the following in mind, as well:
In some areas, taking items from a dumpster is illegal. Always ask permission before taking boxes from a business’s dumpster or recycling bin. While you’re at it, make sure the recycling bin is clean in the first place. You’re looking for free boxes, not free germs.
Never take boxes from someone’s property without asking. Not only is it disrespectful, but it could also be considered theft – even if you thought it was just junk.
Always ask before taking boxes from a business or institution. They may have specific guidelines or schedules for where and when boxes can be collected, and they may have specific visitor hours or parking zones, too.
Liquor stores and bookstores usually have strong, sturdy boxes designed to carry heavy items. If a box has a clearly-marked weight limit printed on the side, that’s a helpful indicator of how much you can fit inside.
Absolutely, a significant number of long-distance moving companies provide free moving boxes as an integral aspect of their service package. These boxes are usually supplied to assist you in securely packing your possessions for the relocation process.
It depends on local laws and regulations. Always ask permission before taking boxes from recycling bins or dumpsters.
Inspect each box for signs of damage, moisture, pests, or strong odors. It’s best to only take boxes that are dry, clean, and in good condition.
The savings can be significant. The cost of moving boxes can add up (especially for larger moves) so using free boxes can save you a substantial amount of money.
The main risks are that your free boxes may be damaged, dirty, or infested with pests. Of course, you’ll have to make sure you’re allowed to take the boxes, too. Always ask permission, and inspect your boxes to minimize the risk.
We’ve shared our best tips and tricks for finding free moving boxes, from understanding the different types to knowing where to source them. We’ve also covered best practices to follow and debunked some common myths.
By using this guide, you’ll not only save money on your move but also contribute to a more sustainable world. Best of luck on your move, and don’t forget to check back in with the Moving Feedback team for more tips and tricks to make moving day even easier!
Meet Harrison, a writer with a real passion for real estate and moving. For the past three years, he's been putting his writing skills to use for companies in these industries, but his experience with moving extends far beyond his keyboard. In fact, he's moved over a dozen times himself, sometimes with the help of professionals, and other times by taking on the move all on his own. Through these experiences, he's learned some valuable lessons about what can make a move a breeze, and what can turn it into a stressful nightmare. And when he's not busy writing, you can find him researching ways to make his next move as smooth and easy as possible.