If you’re planning to move soon, you might be asking yourself, “Where can I find moving boxes nearby?” And even better, “Where can I get free moving boxes?” New moving boxes can be expensive and with all the costs that come with moving—like hiring movers or renting a storage unit—saving money is always a good idea.
For context, the average cost of a local move is around $1,250, while a long-distance move (around 1,000 miles) costs about $4,890. With all these expenses, paying for moving boxes is something you’d probably rather avoid. Plus, once the move is over, you’ll likely just recycle those boxes making it feel like a waste of money.
Luckily, there are ways to avoid spending a lot of money on moving boxes. You can find free boxes from local stores, online platforms and community groups which can help you save a significant amount on your moving costs. Aside from a few specific boxes made for items like TVs and mirrors you might be able to pack your entire home using free boxes.
How much do moving boxes cost?
According to CostHelper.com, standard moving boxes range from about $1 for a small box to $3.75 for a large one. However, specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or mirror boxes are more expensive. Other packing supplies like packing paper cost around $9 per pack, glass-packing kits are $10 to $15 per box and kitchen kits for packing glasses and dishes can cost about $102.
If you’re looking for a full moving kit, here’s an idea of the prices:
- A kit for a one-bedroom apartment costs around $69 to $90 and includes 14 to 29 boxes.
- A kit for a two-bedroom home costs between $178 and $197 and comes with 55 to 60 boxes.
- A kit for a four-bedroom home can range from $311 to $404 and includes 86 to 119 boxes.
These kits usually also come with extra supplies like packing tape, bubble wrap and markers.
Here’s a breakdown of what you might spend on different sizes of cardboard moving boxes:
- Small boxes: $1 to $1.70 each
- Medium boxes: $2.35 to $2.79 each
- Large boxes: $3 each
- Extra-large boxes: $3.75 each
- Wardrobe boxes: $8 to $12 each
- Picture boxes: $10 each
How many moving boxes do I need?
For a rough estimate, a studio move typically needs about $97 worth of boxes. For a one-bedroom home, you’ll need around $124 worth of boxes and for a three-bedroom home about $178 worth.
To figure out exactly how many boxes you need you can use a packing calculator. The estimate will consider factors like how many bedrooms you have, how many people you’re packing for and your packing habits.
Don’t forget about weight! Moving boxes can hold anywhere from 30 to 150 pounds depending on their size and whether they are single- or double-walled. Be careful not to overfill them, as they could break.
25 Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You
Looking for places to get free moving boxes in your area? Below are 25 spots where you can find them helping you save money during your move. Good luck with your box hunt!
U-Haul Box Exchange
U-Haul offers a Customer Connect Box Exchange where people across the country can find and share moving supplies. You just need to enter your location and a keyword like “Free Boxes” to find someone nearby giving away boxes. Most people offering free boxes are those who have recently moved and need to get rid of their extra boxes quickly.
Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular online platform where you can find almost anything including free moving boxes. Check the “Free” section under the “For Sale” category where locals often list items they want to give away. You can also post your own ad to let others know you’re looking for free boxes and packing supplies.
The Freecycle Network
Freecycle is another great option for finding free boxes in your community. It’s a non-profit organization where people give away things they no longer need. After signing up for free, join your local Freecycle group and post that you’re looking for free moving boxes.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform where people can list and sell items but it’s also great for finding free stuff. To find free moving boxes simply search “free boxes” and filter by your location to find boxes available near you.
Nextdoor.com
Check out your local community on Nextdoor.com if you’re looking for free moving boxes. This neighborhood hub not only provides local updates and services but also features a “Classifieds” section where people give away free items including moving boxes. If you don’t find any listed, you can post a request and neighbors might offer some boxes.
OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile app where people list items for sale or for free. Just type “free boxes” into the search bar and you’ll see all the local listings for free boxes people are giving away.
Large Retailers
Big retailers like Walmart, Costco, Target and Home Depot receive large shipments every day, so they usually have many boxes available. You can also check stores like dollar stores, shoe stores and home supply stores.
Pro tip
If you visit while they’re stocking shelves, you can quickly grab boxes—just make sure to ask for permission first.
Liquor Stores
If you live near a liquor or wine store, it’s worth asking the manager if they have extra boxes. Liquor stores get shipments frequently and their boxes often have partitions making them great for packing fragile items like wine glasses. Larger stores usually have more boxes than they need so don’t hesitate to ask!
Bookstores
Both large chain bookstores and small local ones typically have sturdy boxes that are perfect for packing smaller items, knick-knacks and of course, books. Since books are heavy these boxes are usually strong. You can also check with college and university bookstores for extra boxes.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores both big and small get frequent shipments to keep their shelves stocked especially with fresh produce. This means they often have plenty of sturdy boxes they recycle daily. Next time you’re shopping, ask the manager if they have any boxes available and they’ll likely be happy to give them to you.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS receive regular shipments several times a week. The next time you see a pile of flattened boxes behind the store, it’s worth asking the staff if you can take some. We suggest calling ahead to find out when the next shipment arrives so you can grab boxes at the right time.
Arts, Crafts & Hobby Stores
Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Jo-Ann and similar places receive regular shipments too. These stores often have boxes in various sizes so whether you need small or large boxes for moving they’re worth checking out.
Coffee Shops
Local coffee shops whether it’s a big chain like Starbucks or a small neighborhood spot get regular shipments of supplies such as coffee and food. These shipments often come in small to medium boxes which are perfect for moving.
Bars
Similar to liquor stores, bars are a great place to ask for free moving boxes especially ones with partitions which are perfect for packing glasses. Ask when their shipments arrive so you can grab the boxes before they dispose of them. Bars often get rid of boxes quickly due to limited storage space. If you’re moving around a holiday, even better—places like bars stock up for big events like St. Patrick’s Day or the Super Bowl.
Restaurants
Fast food places and restaurants receive frequent deliveries of supplies which means they often have plenty of boxes available. Just be sure to avoid boxes with food stains to prevent your belongings from smelling like spilled food.
Offices
Your workplace can also be a good source for free boxes. Offices often get reams of paper delivered in sturdy boxes with lids. If you work in a larger office, there’s likely a recycling area with plenty of boxes ready to be reused.
Recycling Drop-Off Points
Visiting a recycling drop-off spot can be like finding a goldmine of free moving boxes. Many cities have recycling locations that accept flattened cardboard. If the boxes are still in good condition, you’ll likely find plenty of boxes for your move.
Auto Shops
Local auto parts stores, repair shops and oil change services get regular deliveries of car parts and supplies. If you stop by and ask you might be able to get some large boxes from them.
Apartment Complexes
With people constantly moving in and out, apartment complexes can be a great place to find free boxes. You can check the recycling bins (with permission) or ask the apartment office staff if they have any leftover boxes.
College Dorms
During the start or end of the school year, college dorms have students moving in or out which makes them a great source for large and small moving boxes.
Friends & Family
One of the easiest ways to get free boxes is by asking friends and family. Reach out to them through calls, texts or by knocking on their doors to see if they have any extra boxes from recent deliveries or moves. You can also post on social media like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to let people know you’re in need of moving supplies.
Yard & Garage Sales
Yard and garage sales usually have plenty of boxes. Stop by and ask if they’re willing to give you some. Visiting toward the end of the sale might increase your chances of getting boxes.
Neighbors Who Recently Moved
Take a walk around your neighborhood and look for anyone who has recently moved. You might spot boxes set out for recycling (be sure to ask for permission before taking them). You can also ask around if anyone nearby has just moved—they’re likely to have lots of boxes they want to get rid of.
Schools
Local schools including elementary, middle and high schools often have extra boxes. Call the front office and ask if they have any lying around. The start of the school year is a great time to check since they get a lot of book and supply shipments in the fall.
Libraries
Libraries receive large shipments of books and the boxes are usually strong enough to hold heavy items. These boxes are perfect for packing your books, small items, clothes and shoes.
Other Ways to Get Boxes
Save boxes from your mail
Start holding onto the boxes from your mail deliveries like Amazon packages or USPS Priority Mail. Instead of recycling them right away, keep the boxes and the packing materials inside for your move.
Rent plastic moving boxes
If you prefer not to use cardboard boxes you can rent plastic moving boxes from companies like U-Haul, Rent a Green Box or Bungo Box. These are sturdy, reusable options for moving. You can also rent other moving supplies like blankets and equipment from these places.
Buy What You Still Need from Affordable Retailers
Finding free moving supplies can take time and effort, and some items like specialty boxes might be hard to get for free. If you can’t find what you need, try purchasing from affordable retailers:
- Amazon: They have a wide range of moving supplies and if you’re a Prime member you get free shipping.
- Walmart: Offers various moving supplies including different box brands.
- Home Depot: Great for standard-size boxes, specialty boxes, dish-packing kits and other packing materials.
- Staples: Your local option for finding various moving supplies.
If you’re okay with buying your supplies, these stores have everything you need for your move.
The Do’s & Don’ts of Finding Moving Boxes
Do ask for permission before taking boxes
Always ask before taking boxes from stores or offices. Don’t just grab boxes without permission as it’s not only rude but could also be illegal. Call ahead to see if they have any boxes available so you don’t waste a trip.
Don’t take damaged boxes
Avoid using boxes that are torn, broken or falling apart. Moving can be rough on your belongings so it’s important to use sturdy boxes. Damaged boxes won’t provide the support needed to keep your items safe.
Do advertise that you need free boxes
If you’re struggling to find free boxes, try posting on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor.com. Let your neighbors know that you’re looking for moving boxes—many people may have extra boxes from recent moves that they haven’t advertised yet.
Don’t use dirty or smelly boxes
Stay away from boxes that are dirty, wet or have strong odors. Boxes used for food or other items that leave stains can transfer those smells to your belongings so it’s best to avoid them.
Do be cautious when accepting boxes from strangers
If you’re picking up boxes from someone you don’t know such as through an online ad, always take precautions. Bring a friend with you and meet in a public well-lit place to stay safe.
Use a box calculator to estimate how many boxes you need
Before you start looking for boxes it helps to have an idea of how many you’ll need. You can use online tools like a box calculator where you enter details such as the number of bedrooms, your lifestyle and how many people live in your home. This will give you a good estimate of the number of boxes required for your move.
You May Also Be Like: Professional Movers & Packers
Moving soon?
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Best of luck & happy moving!
