Moving can be stressful, and finding enough boxes is often one of the first challenges. While purchasing boxes is an option, it’s possible to save money and reduce waste by sourcing free or low-cost boxes. Here are 15 creative ways to find boxes for your move.
- Visit Local Grocery Stores
Grocery stores receive shipments daily, leaving them with sturdy boxes perfect for moving.
- Tip: Ask for banana or apple boxes, they’re strong and often have handles for easy carrying.
- Check Liquor Stores
Liquor boxes are ideal for moving because they’re built to carry heavy glass bottles.
- Tip: These boxes often come with dividers, which are great for packing fragile items like glasses or vases.
- Use Online Marketplaces
Websites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Freecycle often have listings for free moving boxes.
- Search for: “Free moving boxes” or “packing supplies.”
- Ask Friends, Family, and Neighbors
Reach out to people you know who may have recently moved or have spare boxes.
- Tip: Post on your social media or neighborhood group to quickly gather offers.
- Visit Big-Box Retailers
Stores like Walmart, Target, or Costco receive large shipments and often have sturdy boxes to spare.
- Tip: Visit early in the morning or late at night when staff are restocking and more likely to have boxes available.
- Contact Office Supply Stores
Offices and office supply stores often discard boxes from paper reams or equipment shipments.
- Tip: These boxes are usually uniform in size and durable, making them easy to stack.
- Stop by Pharmacies
Pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS receive daily shipments of small, sturdy boxes perfect for packing small items.
- Tip: Call ahead to see when shipments arrive.
- Hit Up Coffee Shops and Cafés
Coffee shops receive regular shipments of beans, cups, and supplies. These boxes are often small and lightweight, ideal for books or kitchen items.
- Tip: Ask the manager to save boxes for you.
- Check Bookstores
Bookstores discard durable boxes designed to hold heavy books.
- Tip: Independent bookstores are often more accommodating than large chains.
- Explore Local Recycling Centers
Recycling centers are a treasure trove for gently used boxes.
- Tip: Visit early in the week before the recycling is sorted and processed.
- Ask at Schools
Schools receive shipments of supplies, textbooks, and other materials throughout the year.
- Tip: Contact the administration office to request spare boxes.
- Partner with Local Restaurants
Restaurants receive shipments of canned goods, produce, and supplies in sturdy boxes.
- Tip: Speak with the manager and ask if they can set aside boxes for you.
- Visit Furniture Stores
Furniture stores often have large boxes used for smaller items like lamps, decor, or chairs.
- Tip: These boxes are perfect for packing bulkier items that won’t fit in standard boxes.
- Use Community Apps
Apps like Nextdoor or OfferUp are great for connecting with people in your area who might have spare boxes.
- Tip: Search your local area and check the “Free” section.
- Repurpose Items You Already Have
Get creative with containers you already own to reduce the number of boxes needed.
- Ideas Include:
- Suitcases and duffel bags
- Laundry baskets
- Plastic bins or storage containers
- Drawers from dressers
Bonus Tips for Finding Boxes
- Start Early: Begin collecting boxes as soon as you know your moving date to avoid last-minute scrambling.
- Inspect Boxes: Ensure the boxes are clean and free of pests or odors, especially those from grocery stores or restaurants.
- Break Them Down: Store boxes flat to save space until you’re ready to pack.
Final Thoughts
Finding boxes doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can gather all the moving supplies you need without spending a fortune. By sourcing boxes from your community, you’ll also contribute to sustainability efforts, making your move not just cost-effective but eco-friendly too.
How can storfindr help you get access to the right self-storage?
At storfindr Inc., we believe the everyday person should have access to the same level of convenience, quality and attention to detail as a large enterprise. It’s an experience that starts with finding the right size unit, and a convenient location.
To inquire about a partnership with your business and storfindr Inc., click here.
For more information or just to discuss your logistics needs, contact us at [email protected].
Need help with getting your large item from A -> B, we have you covered. Check out our parent company GoGedit for assistance.
