Moving can be an exciting new adventure that can lead to new friends you never knew existed and memories you’ll end up laughing about over drinks for years to come. It can also bring about better opportunities, financial growth, and possibly the fresh start you really need.
But there’s a downside to moving…
It’s absolute hell.
Everyone knows it.
Packing is stressful – someone’s great grandmother’s heirloom always breaks, people bicker, moving dates get pushed back, friends who agreed to help you move bail. Let’s face it, a lot goes wrong whenever someone says, “I’m moving.” It’s inevitable.
But the real kicker is the expense. Moving is downright expensive.
So, in this blog, let’s talk about something we all need but hate spending money on.
Moving boxes.
Whether you’re hopping across town or starting over across the country, you’re gonna need boxes and lots of them. But why pay for something you can get for free or super cheap?
Here’s your ultimate guide to finding moving boxes without breaking the bank.
First Stop, Local Retail Stores
Grocery Stores
Your neighborhood grocery store. Produce boxes are the MVPs here. They're sturdy, spacious and perfect for heavy items like books or kitchenware.
Pro tip: Pop in first thing in the morning before they break down the boxes for recycling.
Trust me, the early bird gets the best boxes.
Liquor Stores
Liquor stores are gold mines for moving boxes. These boxes are built to carry heavy bottles, making them perfect for your fragile items.
Bonus: many come with handy dividers. Just think, your glassware snug and safe, with a touch of class from that Jack Daniels branding.
Big-Box Retailers
Stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco are great resources for scoring bigger boxes. They get shipments in by the truckload, and usually have more boxes than they know what to do with.
Just ask an employee. They’re often happy to help you out.
Online Marketplaces
Craigslist
Craigslist's "Free" section is a veritable box bonanza. People who have just moved are desperate to offload their boxes and you can swoop in for the kill.
It’s win-win: you get free boxes, they get their space back.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is another great space to hit up. Just a quick search and you’ll find loads of people giving away boxes. Only thing is to make sure it’s all local, so you won’t have to travel far.
Freecyle
Freecycle is the unsung hero of free stuff. This network is all about giving and getting things for free within your community.
They keep things environmentally friendly and it’s a great way to score boxes while saving the planet.
Think Local...
Friends and Family
Put the word out. Chances are, someone in your circle has recently moved and would love to get rid of their boxes. Plus, this gives you an excuse to catch up over a coffee while you’re at it.
Neighborhood Apps
Apps like Nextdoor connect you with your local community. A quick post asking for moving boxes can yield surprising results. Plus, it’s a great way to meet your new neighbors.
Recycling Centers
Your local recycling center might just have what you need. Some centers have sections where people drop off reusable boxes. Give them a call and see if they offer this service.
Specialty Sources
Office Buildings
Offices are often overflowing with boxes from supplies and equipment deliveries. Pop by and ask if they have any extras. They’re usually more than happy to clear out some space.
Bookstores
Bookstores receive shipments of books in incredibly sturdy boxes, perfect for packing your own library. These boxes are small but mighty, ready to handle your heaviest books.
Coffee Shops
Places like Starbucks get their supplies in durable, compact boxes. These are ideal for packing up fragile items like glassware or electronics. Plus, who doesn't love an excuse to grab a latte?
Extra Tips for Box Hunting
Timing is Key
Most people’s apartment leases end at the beginning or end of each month. This sounds like a random fact but it’s a golden nugget of information if you’re hunting for boxes.
So, be sure to collect boxes at the beginning or end of the month when people are more likely to be moving.
Trust me, this is prime box-gathering time.
Be Polite
When asking for boxes, always be polite and considerate. A little kindness goes a long way and people are more likely to help you out if you’re nice about it.
Introduce yourself, explain your situation. Who knows? You might even make a new friend.
Inspect Before You Accept
Make sure the boxes are in good condition before you take them home. You don’t want to deal with soggy, moldy cardboard falling apart mid-move.
Consider An Eco-Friendly Alternative; Rent Moving Boxes Instead
Look into companies that will rent sturdy, easy-to-handle, reusable moving boxes. Providers like Juujbox can deliver the exact amount of bins you need right to your door.
That way, you don’t even have to go searching for boxes. And the best part is when you’re done. They’ll pick up the bins and take them back to their warehouse. No contact, no hassle.
While this isn’t a free option, it is affordable and super convenient.
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it. Your ultimate guide to scoring free or cheap moving boxes. With a little effort, some strategic planning, and a bit of community spirit, you can gather all the boxes you need without spending a dime.
Moving is stressful enough without the added worry of where to find affordable supplies.
Now, you can focus on the more exciting aspects of your move like decorating your new place and meeting your new neighbors.
Now get to it and may your move be filled with more laughter and less stress!
