Moving is expensive. From rental trucks and packing supplies to hiring movers and setting up new utilities, the costs can quickly add up. One often-overlooked expense? Moving boxes! Buying them brand new can set you back hundreds of dollars, but what if we told you there’s a smarter, cheaper, and even eco-friendlier way to get them?
That’s right, you can often find high-quality moving boxes for FREE! Not only does this save your wallet, but it also gives used boxes a second life, reducing waste. Ready to embark on your free box treasure hunt? Here are 7 genius spots where you’re likely to hit the jackpot:
1. Grocery Stores & Supermarkets
Grocery stores receive daily shipments of goods, meaning a constant supply of sturdy cardboard boxes. Ask a manager or an employee in the produce, dairy, or frozen food sections. Early mornings (before restocking) or late evenings are often the best times to inquire. They’ll likely be happy to offload boxes they’d otherwise crush and recycle.
2. Liquor Stores
Think about it: liquor bottles are heavy, so their boxes are built to last! Liquor stores get regular deliveries, and their boxes are usually uniform in size, very sturdy, and often have dividers – perfect for packing glassware or other fragile items. Again, ask an employee when their next shipment arrives and if you can pick up some empties.
3. Bookstores
Just like liquor, books are heavy. Bookstores receive frequent deliveries in robust boxes designed to withstand significant weight. These boxes are often smaller, making them ideal for your heaviest items like books (naturally!), dishes, or tools, preventing your moving boxes from becoming unmanageable.
4. Office Supply Stores
Office supply stores constantly receive large shipments of paper, stationery, and other supplies. The boxes used for printer paper, in particular, are strong, uniform, and often come with lids, making them excellent for packing smaller, heavier items or even files.
5. Online Marketplaces & Community Groups
The internet is your friend! Check platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist (under the ‘Free’ section), Nextdoor, or local buy-nothing groups. People who have just moved often want to get rid of their used boxes quickly. A quick post asking for free moving boxes can yield surprisingly good results.
6. U-Haul Box Exchange & Other Moving Company Programs
Did you know U-Haul has an online ‘Box Exchange’ program? It’s a forum where people can post about free boxes they have or need. Other local moving companies might also have similar programs or designated areas where customers can drop off or pick up used boxes.
7. Friends, Family, & Recent Movers
Spread the word! Tell everyone you know that you’re moving and looking for free boxes. Chances are, someone you know has recently moved or knows someone who has. It’s often the quickest and most convenient way to score a stack of good quality, already-assembled boxes.
Tips for Collecting Free Boxes:
- Call Ahead: Don’t just show up. Call stores beforehand to ask if they have boxes and when would be a good time to pick them up.
- Be Polite & Grateful: A little courtesy goes a long way. Remember, they’re doing you a favor.
- Inspect Carefully: Always check boxes for signs of pests, moisture, strong odors, or structural damage before taking them.
- Go Prepared: Bring a sturdy vehicle and, if possible, a friend to help you load up your haul.
By investing a little time and effort, you can save a significant chunk of your moving budget on boxes, freeing up funds for other essentials (like pizza for your helpers!). Happy hunting, and here’s to a smooth, budget-friendly move!