couple stacking boxes to illustrate cheapest way to ship boxes when moving
Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. From securing reliable movers to perhaps needing a temporary storage solution, moving expenses can quickly add up. Considering that the average local move costs around $1,250 and long-distance relocations can soar to approximately $4,890 (for distances around 1,000 miles), every penny saved counts. In the grand scheme of moving costs, purchasing brand new moving boxes might feel like an unnecessary expense, especially when you consider they’ll likely end up recycled shortly after your move is complete. If you’re wondering, “Where Can We Get Boxes For Moving?”, especially without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place.
Fortunately, acquiring moving boxes doesn’t have to be a significant financial burden. Seeking out free moving boxes and cheap moving boxes from a variety of sources, including local stores, online platforms, and community networks, can lead to substantial savings, potentially hundreds of dollars, on your overall moving budget. With the exception of specialized containers designed for items like flat-screen TVs or mirrors, it’s entirely possible to pack up your entire household using free or very low-cost boxes. Let’s explore the world of moving boxes and discover how to secure them affordably.
The Cost of Moving Boxes: What to Expect
Purchasing moving boxes can be more expensive than many people realize. According to resources like CostHelper.com, the typical price range for moving boxes varies from around $1 for a small box to upwards of $3.75 for an extra-large option. However, these are just general estimates. Specialty boxes, designed for specific items like wardrobes (allowing clothes to be hung during the move) or mirrors and artwork, can cost significantly more. Additionally, packing supplies like paper for cushioning fragile items can average around $9 per pack, glass-packing kits range from $10 to $15 each, and specialized kitchen kits designed for dishes and glassware can cost over $100.
Moving kits, which bundle boxes and essential supplies, offer another perspective on costs. A kit designed for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $69 to $90 and typically includes between 14 and 29 boxes. For a two-bedroom house, kits generally cost between $178 and $197 and contain approximately 55 to 60 boxes. Moving kits for larger homes, such as a four-bedroom house, can range from $311 to $404 and include a generous supply of 86 to 119 boxes. It’s important to note that these kits usually also include additional packing necessities like tape, bubble wrap, and markers, which adds to the overall value but also the upfront cost.
Breakdown of Cardboard Moving Box Costs:
To give you a clearer picture of individual box expenses, here’s a general cost breakdown:
- Small Moving Boxes: $1 to $1.70 each
- Medium Moving Boxes: $2.35 to $2.79 each
- Large Moving Boxes: Around $3 each
- Extra-Large Moving Boxes: Approximately $3.75 each
- Wardrobe Moving Boxes: $8 to $12 each
- Picture Boxes: Around $10 each
These prices can fluctuate based on the retailer, box quality, and any bulk discounts available. However, they highlight that purchasing boxes can quickly become a significant expense in your moving budget.
Estimating How Many Moving Boxes You’ll Need
Accurately estimating the number of moving boxes required is crucial for both budgeting and efficiency. A move from a studio apartment might necessitate around $97 worth of boxes, while a one-bedroom home could require approximately $124 worth. Moving a larger three-bedroom home might push box costs closer to $178 or more.
To get a more personalized estimate, consider utilizing a moving box calculator. These online tools, like the packing calculator offered by Moving.com, take into account factors such as the size of your home (number of bedrooms), the number of occupants, your packing habits (minimalist vs. maximalist), and other relevant details. This helps provide a more tailored estimate for your specific moving needs.
Another key consideration is weight capacity. Moving boxes can handle weights ranging from 30 to 150 pounds each, depending on their size and construction (single-walled vs. double-walled cardboard). Overpacking boxes is a common mistake that can lead to boxes breaking, so it’s essential to be mindful of weight limits and distribute heavy items appropriately across multiple boxes.
25 Proven Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You
If you’re determined to minimize moving costs, finding free moving boxes near you is a smart strategy. Here are 25 reliable places to explore for your box hunt:
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U-Haul Customer Connect Box Exchange
U-Haul, a well-known name in moving, offers a helpful online platform called the U-Haul Customer Connect Box Exchange. This feature connects individuals across the country looking to give away moving supplies with those in need. Simply enter your location and keywords like “Free Boxes” to search for nearby individuals offering boxes. Often, these are people who have recently completed their own moves and are eager to get rid of a pile of flattened boxes.
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Craigslist
Craigslist is a widely used online marketplace for a vast array of items, including freebies. Navigate to the “For Sale” section of your local Craigslist page and then look for the “Free” subcategory, usually listed chronologically. This is an excellent starting point to check if anyone in your area is giving away moving boxes. You can also proactively post your own “wanted” ad, letting the community know you’re seeking free boxes and moving supplies.
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The Freecycle Network
The Freecycle Network is a non-profit online platform dedicated to facilitating free exchanges within communities. Similar to Craigslist but focused solely on free items, Freecycle is another great resource for finding free moving boxes. Sign up for a free account and join your local Freecycle group. Once registered, you can post a request within the network stating that you’re looking for free moving boxes.
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Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace, integrated into the popular social media platform, is a convenient place to search for local items for sale or giveaway. To find free boxes, simply type “free boxes” into the Marketplace search bar. Refine your search by location to pinpoint listings in your immediate vicinity, making pickup easier.
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Nextdoor.com
Nextdoor.com is a neighborhood-focused social networking platform. If you’re not already a member of your local Nextdoor neighborhood hub, consider joining. Beyond neighborhood news and local service recommendations, Nextdoor often features a “Classifieds” section where neighbors list items for sale or free giveaway. This frequently includes moving boxes. If you don’t see any listings for free boxes, post a request outlining your need, and neighbors are likely to respond if they have boxes to spare.
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OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace app, which has merged with Letgo, another similar platform. Searching “free boxes” on OfferUp will display local listings of boxes that people are offering for free. Its mobile interface makes it easy to browse and connect with local givers.
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Large Retailers (Big Box Stores)
Large retailers, often referred to as “big-box stores,” receive daily shipments and accumulate a significant number of cardboard boxes. Stores like Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Home Depot, Office Depot, Target, K-Mart, and Best Buy, among others, are potential sources. Don’t overlook dollar stores, shoe stores, sporting goods stores, and home supply giants like IKEA. A pro tip: visit during stocking hours when employees are actively unpacking shelves to potentially snag boxes quickly. Always remember to ask for permission first.
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Liquor Stores
Local wine and liquor stores are excellent, often overlooked, sources for sturdy boxes. Liquor stores receive frequent shipments, and their boxes are often partitioned, making them ideal for packing glassware and fragile items. Larger liquor stores typically have a surplus of boxes, so don’t hesitate to inquire with the manager about taking some off their hands.
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Bookstores
Both large chain bookstores and independent local bookstores regularly receive book shipments in sturdy boxes. Given the weight of books, these boxes are generally quite durable and well-suited for moving books, smaller items, and even heavier belongings. Remember to also check college and university bookstores, especially around the beginning and end of semesters.
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Grocery Stores
Grocery stores, both large chains and smaller local grocers, receive frequent shipments of produce and goods, resulting in a consistent supply of cardboard boxes. Grocery store boxes are often quite sturdy to handle food items. When grocery shopping, speak to a manager and express your interest in taking some of their extra boxes. They are usually happy to have someone take them for recycling purposes.
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Pharmacies
Chain pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS receive regular shipments of goods multiple times a week. You’ve likely noticed dumpsters behind these stores filled with flattened boxes. Call ahead or ask inside to find out the best time to pick up boxes, ideally coinciding with their shipment schedules.
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Arts, Crafts, and Hobby Stores
Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Jo-Ann Fabrics, and Utrecht Art Supplies also receive frequent shipments of various sized items. Whether you need large boxes or smaller ones, these stores can be good resources for finding the box sizes you need for packing art supplies, craft materials, and hobby items.
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Coffee Shops
Local coffee shops, including large chains like Starbucks and smaller independent cafes, receive regular deliveries of coffee beans, syrups, cups, and food supplies. They can be a source for smaller-sized boxes, particularly useful for packing kitchen items, mugs, and smaller décor.
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Bars
Similar to liquor stores, bars are great places to check for free moving boxes, especially those with partitions, which are excellent for packing glasses. Inquire about their delivery days to time your visit effectively. Smaller bars often dispose of boxes quickly due to limited storage space. Holidays known for increased bar traffic, like St. Patrick’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and Super Bowl weekend, may yield even more boxes as bars stock up.
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Restaurants
Restaurants, especially fast-food establishments, receive perishable food shipments almost daily, leading to a regular influx of boxes. This makes them a potential source for free moving boxes. However, be selective and avoid boxes that are stained with food or grease to prevent odors or contamination of your belongings.
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Offices
Consider your workplace as a source for moving boxes. Offices regularly receive shipments of paper reams, which come in sturdy boxes with lids. File boxes are also common in offices. If you work in a larger office building, there might be a designated recycling room where you can find a supply of suitable boxes.
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Recycling Drop-off Points
Visiting recycling drop-off locations can be like hitting a moving box jackpot. Most cities have designated recycling centers that accept flattened corrugated cardboard. If the boxes are in usable condition, you can often find a significant number of moving boxes at these locations.
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Auto Shops
Local auto parts stores, auto repair shops, and oil change or brake shops regularly receive shipments of car parts and supplies in boxes. Inquire at these businesses, and you might find some large, sturdy boxes suitable for moving.
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Apartment Complexes
Apartment complexes experience frequent resident turnover, with people moving in and out regularly. This makes them a good source for finding free boxes. Check recycling bins on the property (ask for permission first) or inquire at the apartment complex office if they have any boxes available from recent move-outs.
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College Dorms
College dormitories see a high volume of students moving in and out, particularly at the beginning and end of the academic year. This turnover can result in a surplus of both large and small moving boxes. Check with dormitories around these peak moving periods.
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Friends and Family
One of the easiest ways to find free boxes is by simply asking your social circle. Reach out to friends and family, inquiring if they have any spare boxes from recent deliveries or moves. Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to post a request for moving supplies to your network.
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Yard and Garage Sales
Yard and garage sales are almost guaranteed to have boxes on hand. Stop by local sales and ask if they are willing to part with some of their boxes, especially towards the end of the sale, when they may be looking to dispose of leftover materials.
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Neighbors Who Have Recently Moved
Take a walk around your neighborhood and look for signs of recent moves. Keep an eye out for boxes placed curbside for recycling (always ask permission before taking them). Alternatively, inquire with neighbors to see if anyone recently moved in and might have boxes they want to get rid of.
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Schools
Elementary, middle, and high schools in your area can be surprisingly good sources for boxes. Contact the school’s front office and ask if they have any boxes available, especially around the start of the school year when they receive shipments of books and school supplies.
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Libraries
Libraries receive shipments of books, and given the weight of books, library boxes are typically very sturdy. These boxes are excellent for packing books, smaller items, clothing, and shoes due to their robust construction.
Alternative Ways to Obtain Moving Boxes
Beyond seeking free boxes, consider these alternative strategies to acquire moving boxes affordably:
Save Boxes from Mail Deliveries
Start actively saving boxes from your online orders and mail deliveries. Boxes from Amazon Prime, USPS Priority Mail, and other online retailers can be repurposed for your move. Instead of immediately recycling them, flatten and store these boxes. Also, retain any packing paper or cushioning materials that come inside these boxes.
Rent Plastic Moving Boxes
For a more eco-friendly and durable option, consider renting plastic moving boxes. Companies like U-Haul, Rent a Green Box, and Bungo Box offer plastic box rental services. Plastic boxes are stackable, water-resistant, and reusable, making them a convenient choice. Explore companies specializing in plastic moving box rentals for this alternative. Renting is often cost-effective, especially for local moves where you can easily return the boxes after unpacking.
Purchase Boxes Strategically
If free and recycled boxes aren’t sufficient, or if you need specialty boxes, purchase boxes from retailers that offer competitive prices. Amazon is a convenient online retailer with a wide selection of moving supplies and often offers free shipping for Prime members. Walmart also carries a range of moving supplies, including various box brands. Home Depot is known for its selection of standard-sized moving boxes and specialty packing materials. U-Haul is a reliable source for moving kits and a variety of box sizes. Staples is another readily accessible retailer that stocks moving supplies. Comparing prices and considering bulk discounts can help minimize costs when purchasing moving boxes.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Moving Box Hunting
To ensure a successful and safe moving box hunt, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:
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Do Ask Permission: Always ask for permission before taking boxes from retailers, offices, or recycling bins on business premises. Avoid taking boxes without authorization, as it can be considered dishonest or even illegal. Call ahead to inquire if boxes are available and when it’s a good time to pick them up.
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Don’t Take Damaged Boxes: Avoid boxes that are torn, crushed, water-damaged, or in poor condition. Weak boxes won’t adequately protect your belongings during a move. Ensure any free boxes you acquire are sturdy and in good condition.
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Do Advertise Your Need: If you’re struggling to find enough boxes, actively advertise your need for free moving boxes. Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor.com, and local community groups to let people know you’re searching for boxes. Many people who have recently moved are happy to give away their used boxes.
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Don’t Use Dirty or Smelly Boxes: Refrain from using boxes that are dirty, stained, or have lingering odors, especially those that previously contained food or strong-smelling items. These boxes can transfer odors or stains to your belongings. Avoid boxes from trash cans or those with visible food or drink stains.
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Do Be Cautious with Strangers: Exercise caution when picking up boxes from strangers found through online platforms. If arranging a pickup, bring a friend, meet in a well-lit public area if possible, and trust your instincts.
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Use a Moving Box Calculator: Before starting your box hunt, utilize a moving box calculator to estimate the approximate number of boxes you’ll need. This helps you gauge how many boxes to seek and avoid over or under-collecting. Moving.com’s box calculator is a helpful resource for this.
Ready to Move?
Finding the right moving boxes is a crucial step in a smooth and cost-effective relocation. By exploring these strategies for finding free and affordable options, you can significantly reduce your moving expenses.
Our website offers resources to help you with all aspects of your move, including finding and booking reputable moving companies. To connect with licensed and insured movers, start by getting a moving quote today. We wish you a successful and stress-free move!
