If you’re planning a move soon, you may be wondering, “Where can I find moving boxes nearby?” Or even better, “Where can I get free moving boxes?” Buying new moving boxes can get expensive and with all the other moving costs—like hiring movers or renting a storage unit—finding ways to save money is always a smart idea.
For context, the average cost of a local move is around $1,250, while a long-distance move of about 1,000 miles costs roughly $4,890. With all these expenses, paying for moving boxes is probably something you’d rather avoid. Plus, once the move is over, you’ll most likely end up recycling those boxes anyway, which can make the expense feel unnecessary.
Luckily, there are several 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 moving costs. Aside from a few specialty boxes designed for items like TVs and mirrors, you may be able to pack your entire home using free boxes.
How much do moving boxes cost?
According to CostHelper.com, standard moving boxes typically range from about $1 for a small box to $3.75 for a large one. However, specialty boxes, such as wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or mirror boxes, tend to cost more. Other packing supplies can also add up—packing paper costs around $9 per pack, glass-packing kits range from $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 a general idea of the pricing:
- A kit for a one-bedroom apartment costs around $69 to $90 and usually includes 14 to 29 boxes.
- A kit for a two-bedroom home ranges from $178 to $197 and typically comes with 55 to 60 boxes.
- A kit for a four-bedroom home can cost between $311 and $404 and includes around 86 to 119 boxes.
These kits also usually include extra supplies like packing tape, bubble wrap and markers.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to 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: Around $3 each
- Extra-large Boxes: Around $3.75 each
- Wardrobe Boxes: $8 to $12 each
- Picture Boxes: Around $10 each
How many moving boxes do I need?
For a rough estimate, a studio move typically requires about $97 worth of boxes. A one-bedroom home usually needs around $124 worth of boxes, while a three-bedroom home may require about $178 worth.
To figure out exactly how many boxes you need, you can use a packing calculator. These estimates usually take factors into account like the number of bedrooms in your home, how many people you’re packing for and your overall packing habits.
Don’t forget about weight! Moving boxes can hold anywhere from 30 to 150 pounds, depending on their size and whether they’re single- or double-walled. Be careful not to overpack them, as too much weight can cause the boxes to break.
25 Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You
Looking for places to get free moving boxes in your area? Below are 25 places where you can find them, helping you save money during your move. Good luck with your box search!
U-Haul Box Exchange
U-Haul offers a Customer Connect Box Exchange where people across the country can find and share moving supplies. All you need to do is enter your location and a keyword like “Free Boxes” to find someone nearby who is giving boxes away. Most people offering free boxes are usually those who have recently moved and want to get rid of their extra boxes quickly.
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 items they no longer need. After signing up for free, you can join your local Freecycle group and post that you’re looking for free moving boxes.
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.
Nextdoor.com
Nextdoor.com is another helpful place to look for free moving boxes in your area. The platform connects local neighbors and includes a “Classifieds” section where people often give away free items, including moving boxes. If you don’t see any available, you can make a post asking for boxes and neighbors in your community may be willing to help.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a great place to look for free moving boxes. Many people give away boxes after finishing their move and you can often find them nearby. Just search for “free boxes” and set your location filter to see what’s available in your area.
OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile app where people list items for sale or give them away for free. Simply search for “free boxes” to see local listings from people in your area who are giving away moving boxes.
Large Retailers
Large stores like Walmart, Costco, Target and Home Depot receive shipments every day, so they often have extra boxes available. You can also ask at dollar stores, shoe stores and home supply stores, as many of them usually have boxes they no longer need.
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 any extra boxes available. Liquor stores receive shipments regularly and their boxes often come with 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 bookshops usually have sturdy boxes that are perfect for packing smaller items, knick-knacks and of course, books. Since books are heavy, these boxes are often strong and durable. You can also check with college and university bookstores to see if they have any extra boxes available.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores, both large and small, receive frequent shipments to keep their shelves stocked, especially with fresh produce. Because of this, they often have plenty of sturdy boxes that get recycled daily. The next time you’re shopping, ask the manager if they have any boxes available and they’ll likely be happy to give some to you.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS receive regular shipments several times each week. The next time you notice a stack of flattened boxes behind the store, it’s worth asking the staff if you can take a few. We also suggest calling ahead to find out when their next shipment arrives so you can pick up boxes at the right time.
Arts, Crafts & Hobby Stores
Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Jo-Ann and similar places receive regular shipments as well. These stores often have boxes in different sizes, so whether you need small or large moving boxes, they’re definitely worth checking out.
Coffee Shops
Local coffee shops, whether it’s a large chain like Starbucks or a small neighborhood café, receive regular shipments of supplies such as coffee and food items. These deliveries often come in small to medium-sized boxes which can work perfectly for moving.
Bars
Similar to liquor stores, bars can be a great place to find free moving boxes, especially ones with partitions that are perfect for packing glasses. Ask when their shipments arrive so you can pick up the boxes before they throw them away. Bars usually get rid of boxes quickly because they often have limited storage space. If you’re moving around a holiday, that’s even better—bars tend to stock up for busy 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 make sure to avoid boxes with food stains so your belongings don’t end up smelling like spilled food.
Offices
Your workplace can also be a good source for free boxes. Offices often receive reams of paper in sturdy boxes with lids. If you work in a larger office, there’s a good chance the recycling area has plenty of boxes ready to be reused.
Recycling Drop-Off Points
Recycling drop-off locations can be a great place to find free moving boxes. Many cities have recycling centers where people leave flattened cardboard boxes. If the boxes are still in good shape, you may be able to find plenty to use for your move.
Auto Shops
Local auto parts stores, repair shops and oil change centers receive regular deliveries of parts and supplies. If you stop by and ask, they may be willing to give you some large boxes they no longer need.
Apartment Complexes
Apartment complexes can be a great place to look for free moving boxes since people are always moving in and out. You can check the recycling bins with permission or ask the apartment office staff if they have any leftover boxes available.
College Dorms
At the beginning and end of the school year, college dorms are full of students moving in and out, making them a great place to find both large and small moving boxes.
Friends & Family
One of the easiest ways to find free moving boxes is by asking friends and family. You can call, text or simply ask if they have any extra boxes from recent deliveries or past moves. Posting on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram is also a good way to let people know you’re looking for moving supplies.
Yard & Garage Sales
Yard and garage sales can be a good place to find free boxes. Stop by and ask if they have any boxes they’re willing to give away. You may have better luck if you visit near the end of the sale, when people are cleaning up and getting rid of extra boxes.
Neighbors Who Recently Moved
Take a walk around your neighborhood and see if anyone has recently moved. You may notice boxes placed out for recycling but make sure to ask for permission before taking them. You can also ask around to see if any nearby neighbors recently moved, since they’ll likely have extra boxes they no longer need.
Schools
Local schools, including elementary, middle and high schools, often have extra boxes available. You can call the front office and ask if they have any boxes they no longer need. The beginning of the school year is usually a great time to check since schools receive many shipments of books and supplies during the fall.
Libraries
Libraries regularly receive large shipments of books, so they often have strong boxes available. These boxes are great for packing books, small household items, clothes and shoes.
Other Ways to Get Boxes
Save boxes from your mail
Start saving the boxes from your mail deliveries, such as Amazon packages or USPS Priority Mail boxes. Instead of recycling them right away, keep both the boxes and the packing materials inside to use for your move.
Rent plastic moving boxes
If you don’t want to use cardboard boxes, you can rent plastic moving boxes from companies like BluBox-It, U-Haul, Rent a Green Box or Bungo Box. These boxes are sturdy, reusable and a convenient option for moving. Many of these companies also rent out other moving supplies, such as blankets and moving equipment.
Buy What You Still Need from Affordable Retailers
Finding free moving supplies can take time and effort, and some items, like specialty boxes, may be difficult to find for free. If you’re unable to get everything you need, you can always buy supplies from affordable retailers:
- Amazon: Offers a wide selection of moving supplies and Prime members can get free shipping.
- Walmart: Carries a variety of moving supplies, including different types of boxes.
- Home Depot: A great place to find standard moving boxes, specialty boxes, dish-packing kits and other packing materials.
- Staples: A convenient local option for different moving and packing supplies.
If you don’t mind purchasing your supplies, these stores can help you find 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. Taking boxes without permission is not only rude but it could also get you into trouble. It’s also a good idea to call ahead and ask if they have any boxes available so you don’t make an unnecessary trip.
Don’t take damaged boxes
Avoid using boxes that are torn, crushed or falling apart. Moving can be tough on your belongings, so it’s important to use strong, sturdy boxes. Damaged boxes may not provide enough support to keep your items safe during the move.
Do advertise that you need free boxes
If you’re having trouble finding free boxes, try posting on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor.com. Let people in your area know that you’re looking for moving boxes, since many may have extra boxes from recent moves that they haven’t listed anywhere yet.
Don’t use dirty or smelly boxes
Avoid using boxes that are dirty, wet or have strong smells. Boxes that were previously used for food or other messy items can leave odors or stains on your belongings, so it’s best to stay away from 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 listing, make sure to stay careful. Bring a friend with you and meet in a public, well-lit area to help keep yourself safe.
Use a box calculator to estimate how many boxes you need
Before you start searching for boxes, it’s helpful to know roughly how many you’ll need. You can use online tools like a moving calculator by entering details such as the number of bedrooms in your home, your lifestyle and how many people live with you. The calculator will then give you a general estimate of how many boxes you may need for your move.
Moving soon?
STI Moving & Storage is here to help. As a reliable Phoenix moving company, you can get started by requesting a quote for your move. Fully licensed and insured, STI Movers works hard to make sure your belongings are handled with care throughout the moving process.
Best of luck and happy moving!
