Where to Get Free Boxes for Moving
Cardboard doesn’t cost much, but when you’re moving, every penny counts. Luckily, there are plenty of places you can get boxes without paying a cent. They’re not advertised, so finding them takes a bit of leg work. However, knowing where to find free boxes is a great way to keep moving costs under control. If you're looking to save some money, here are the best places to start.
Your Friends and Neighbors
You’d be surprised how many people have spare boxes lying around. And while it’s unlikely anyone you know will have enough to cover your entire move, it always pays to ask. Picking up one or two here and there will usually net you a large number over time if you start early.
Craigslist
People don’t like breaking down packing material or letting it go to waste, which is why it’s so easy to find boxes on Craigslist. Check out the “Free” section. Users often post ads offering to give away boxes after a move. Conversely, you can post an ad yourself, asking if anyone has any spare boxes they need to get rid of.
Freecycle
Freecycle is a grassroots, nonprofit network of people exchanging free stuff in their hometowns. Their goal is to keep as much junk out of landfills as possible by finding new homes for unwanted items. It’s free to join and a great way to find moving boxes.
Facebook Marketplace
Like Freecycle, Facebook Marketplace allows users to post classified ads for items being sold in the community. Popular with both individuals and businesses, it’s a great place to hunt for free stuff, including boxes.
Reddit
There is a subreddit for practically every major city in America. People post news, ask advice about local businesses, and trade free stuff. If you’re looking for moving boxes, just ask. With so many people logging in every day, you’re bound to find at least a few with old boxes they don’t need.
OfferUp
OfferUp is an app where people can post items they want to sell or give away. It’s free to use, though there's an extra fee if you want your listing featured at the top of the queue.
Retailers
Almost everything delivered to a business comes in a box. Because they’re going to get tossed out anyway, many businesses are more than happy to let you have them. Just be sure to call ahead. Most businesses don’t keep boxes lying around for very long. Find out when they’re receiving a shipment. They’ll have plenty of boxes then. If you ask, the employees might even be willing to set some aside for you to pick up at your convenience.
Any local retailer will be able to help, but because the biggest retailers receive the biggest shipments, they’re normally the best ones to contact. You're sure to have at least a few in your area, such as:
- Walmart
- Target
- Barnes & Noble
- PetSmart
- Petco
- Dollar Tree
- Kroger
- Trader Joe’s
- Safeway
- Whole Foods
- Albertsons
- Costco
- Office Depot
- Starbucks
- Walgreens
Liquor stores are another good resource. Beer, wine, and liquor boxes are great for heavy items. So are boxes that hold books. Grocery boxes are generally easy to carry, but may have some food residue left inside. If they’ve been exposed to moisture, the cardboard might also be susceptible to mildew.
Your Moving Company
When you need boxes, movers are a low cost and convenient option. Their boxes are strong, easy to carry, and delivered right to your door. Allied also provides specialty boxes for clothes and valuables. Our team will even help you pack!
Contact your moving agent ahead of time and let them know how many boxes you need. Last minute requests are no problem. Our teams have the supplies and flexibility to ensure your move runs smoothly. Contact us today for a free quote!