Getting ready to move but need boxes? Remember those Amazon boxes you threw away? Now you wish you kept them, right? Don't worry, lots of us have been there. And if you've seen how much new boxes cost, you're probably looking for free ones to save money. If that's you, we've got a list of 20 places where you can find free moving boxes to help you out.
Start with the people you know best
Look around your house
You might be surprised to find that you already have plenty of boxes available for your move. Boxes from items like TVs, printers, and gaming consoles can be reused. Also, don't forget about using suitcases and storage bins to transport your belongings between homes.
Ask your friends
Don't forget to reach out to friends and family early in your quest for free moving boxes. Drop a text in your group chats or make a post on social media to catch the eye of anyone wanting to offload extra boxes. Whether it's your niece who recently moved or your neighbor who got a big delivery, chances are someone you know has free boxes to spare.
Look around your office
Office buildings receive numerous deliveries regularly, resulting in plenty of leftover boxes. If you're still working onsite, take a look around during your next visit to see what boxes are available. For those working remotely, consider asking friends who still work in offices to inquire about spare boxes for you.
Ask for free boxes from your immediate community
Neighborhood pages
If you reside in a neighborhood, chances are there's a community page where neighbors share various needs and services. This platform is perfect for requesting free boxes along with other inquiries, from finding reliable contractors to hiring babysitters for a night out.
Social media
It's probable that someone in your social media network has either moved recently or knows someone who has. Share a quick request on your news feed, and you'll likely receive more free boxes than you need in no time.
Yard sales
If your neighbors are hosting a yard sale, they're probably looking to clear out extra belongings. While they declutter, it's likely they'll have some spare boxes you can use. Swing by the yard sale or give them a call to inquire about obtaining boxes for your upcoming move.
A neighbor who just moved
If you know someone who has recently moved, they're probably eager to get rid of their extra boxes. Reach out to colleagues, neighbors, family, and friends to locate more moving supplies you can use. If you're fortunate enough to find some, be sure to express your gratitude with a thank-you note or email.
Freecycle
Consider joining your local freecycle group to inquire if anyone can offer some spare boxes. It's free to join and provides an opportunity to engage with fellow community members. Even if you don't secure moving boxes, freecycle remains a valuable resource for decluttering your home before the move.
Find free boxes at local businesses
Grocery stores
Besides being the go-to spot for snacks and sweets, grocery stores also harbor a wealth of boxes and crates. Seek out a staff member or store manager and request access to their storage or recycling area. Given the frequent shipments received by grocery stores, you're likely to find an ample supply of free boxes for your move.
Liquor stores
Make your way to the nearby liquor store to pick up some of the sturdiest boxes around (and perhaps treat yourself to a bottle of wine for a celebratory toast once you're all settled in). What's great about liquor boxes is they frequently include lids and handles, ideal for safeguarding delicate or small items. Simply inquire with the store staff about obtaining some complimentary boxes. More often than not, these boxes would just be headed for recycling otherwise.
Auto supply stores
Finding large moving boxes can be challenging if you're unsure where to search. If you're having difficulty, consider heading to an auto supply store as your primary destination for larger boxes. Locate one of these stores in your vicinity. Typically, they are willing to let you take their surplus boxes off their hands.
Retail giants
At retailers such as Costco, Sam’s Club, and Walmart, nearly everything is packaged in sizable boxes. You can likely obtain complimentary moving boxes from these stores due to the sheer volume of shipments they receive at their warehouses. Many stores repurpose these delivery boxes to package items at checkout. Therefore, remember to hold onto your boxes whenever you visit one of these stores. This way, you can accumulate a substantial collection of free boxes over time.
Your local orchard
If you reside in a rural region, consider visiting your nearby orchard to locate wooden crates suitable for transporting delicate items requiring extra protection. These crates are exceptionally sturdy and can serve as stylish home decor even after your move. Who doesn't love a touch of rustic charm?
