Where to Get Free Boxes: 25 Local Spots to Find Free Moving Boxes

Moving can easily get overwhelming, and there’s one thing I’ve learned from multiple moves- you should never pay for
boxes! And if you are wondering where to get “free moving boxes near me”, you are in for a surprise.

Free moving boxes are fairly easy to find. I’ve discovered plenty of places to get free boxes—and
trust me, it’s one less thing you’ll need to worry about or spend money on when moving!

Why You Should Know: Where to Get Free Boxes?

Buying new boxes is an added moving cost that can be avoided easily.

Here’s why:

• Easy Availability: Packing boxes are everywhere—you just need to know where to look.
• Good Quality: free boxes are often sturdier than those flimsy store-bought ones
• Variety: Not all items can easily fit into standard-sized boxes. That’s why, when you
  source free boxes, you get a range of sizes, perfect for packing anything from books, and fragile decoratives to
  kitchen appliances.

💡Opting for used, free boxes is an eco-friendly choice. You’re recycling and reducing waste, which helps protect the
environment.

What is the Cost of Moving Boxes?

When budgeting for your move, it’s important to understand the costs of moving boxes and supplies. Here’s a
simplified estimate of what you can expect:

Cardboard Moving Box Type	Cost per Box
Small Box	$1.00 to $1.70
Medium Box	$2.35 to $2.79
Large Box	$3.00
Extra-large Box	$3.75
Wardrobe Box	$8.00 to $12.00
Picture Box	$10.00
Sturdy Set-up box	$ 4 to $ 5

25 Local Spots to Find Free Cardboard Moving Boxes

Now, let’s get to the part you’re most interested in—where to get free moving boxes.

25 nearby places to source packing boxes without spending a penny:

• Apartment Complexes

  If you live in an apartment complex, check around the recycling areas. I’ve found so many boxes left out by neighbors
  who’ve just moved in.

  A little tip: if you’re not sure, ask the building management if they have any leads on recent move-ins.

• Grocery Stores

  This is the second-best spot, and for good reason.
  Grocery stores get daily deliveries and are practically swimming in cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes.
  The best time to try is early morning or late evening—right after deliveries.

• Liquor Stores – Perfect for Fragile Items

  The boxes liquor stores get are surprisingly sturdy, and because they’re meant to carry glass bottles, they’re perfect for fragile items like dishes or glassware.

• Nextdoor App

  The Nextdoor App is a neighborhood-focused platform where people often share
  resources and supplies, including free moving boxes.
  Post an inquiry on the app asking if anyone has boxes available—people are often happy to give them away. If you prefer
  online shopping, this is one of the best options: to find free packing boxes.

• Facebook Marketplace

  Facebook Marketplace is another excellent online platform where people regularly offer free moving supplies,
  including packing boxes.
  Look for gently used boxes that are still in good condition.
  Free Tip: Set an alert for “free moving boxes” in your local area to grab them before anyone else does.

• Craigslist

  Craigslist’s “Free” section under “for sale” listings is often filled with people giving away boxes after they’ve
  finished their own move. I’ve found everything from large wardrobe boxes to smaller ones for knick-knacks.

  Be quick though—good listings go fast.

• Big-Box Retailers

  Stores like Walmart and Target often have extra boxes. They are perfect for packing bulkier items like linens or even
  small furniture. Just ask the staff nicely, and don’t be shy about asking them to save boxes for you.

• OfferUp

  OfferUp is a mobile marketplace where people buy, sell, and give away items. It
  recently merged with another similar app, Letgo, to make it easier to find local deals.

  Simply type “free boxes” into the search bar, and you’ll find a list of people in your area who are offering them.

• Pharmacies

  Pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens are often overlooked, but they receive a lot of inventory in small to medium-sized
  boxes. I’ve found these great for toiletries and bathroom supplies.

• U-Haul Box Exchange

  This is a goldmine! U-Haul has a box exchange where you can either give away or trade boxes. It’s great because you know
  the boxes are in good condition, and you’re helping out fellow movers.

• Office Supply Stores

  Places like Staples, Office Depot, and OfficeMax regularly receive deliveries in durable and medium to large boxes.

  Ask for cardboard boxes that come with electronic appliances and heavy office supplies. They’re typically very strong
  and will protect your delicate and prone to
  damage items during move from external harm and dents.

  Mid-week is a great time to visit, as shipments often come in between Monday and Wednesday.

• Bookstores

  Cardboard boxes from bookstores are excellent for packing. These boxes are durable enough to hold heavy items, like your book collection, or even small appliances.

• Schools and Universities

  Educational institutions receive bulk shipments of supplies and may have spare boxes. They are best for scoring medium
  to large boxes, ideal for heavier or bulkier items. Contact the administration office or stationary supply room for
  availability.

• Home Improvement Stores

  Home Depot and Lowe’s often have leftover boxes from their shipments of home improvement items. Ask for large, thick
  cardboard boxes for packing tools, gardening supplies, personal gadgets, or home electronics.
  Pro Tip: Check with the customer service desk—many stores are willing to give away their boxes.

• Recycling Centers

  Local recycling centers are a great place to check to source free moving boxes that have been discarded but are
  still in good, usable condition. Specifically ask for sturdy, undamaged boxes that can be reused.

  Visit earlier in the day when new boxes are more likely to be available.

• Fast Food Chains

  Fast food chains like McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Burger King receive shipments regularly and have
  many boxes in good shape and size to spare.
  Ask for: Boxes that hold food items like frozen goods or packaged ingredients. These boxes are usually smaller
  but strong, so they’re ideal for packing smaller household items.

• Pet Stores

  Stores like Petco and PetSmart receive shipments of pet supplies in durable boxes, perfect for moving
  heavy or awkwardly shaped items.
  Ask the store manager or staff for larger boxes; used to ship pet food, toys, and other supplies.
  You can also ask the staff if they’re willing to set aside boxes for you after they unpack fresh deliveries.

• Dollar Stores

  Dollar stores like Dollar Tree and Dollar General receive daily shipments of small items packed in
  medium-sized boxes. You can use them to pack smaller household items or miscellaneous items.

  These stores often get shipments overnight, so visit first thing in the morning.

•  Warehouse Stores

  Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club have large boxes from bulk shipments they receive daily.
  They are best for large and bulkier items. Do check the recycling or loading area for discarded boxes.

• Thrift Stores

  Goodwill or Salvation Army stores receive donations in a variety of box sizes that they often discard.

  Ask the store manager or staff- if they have any spare boxes from donation deliveries.

• Your Workplace

  Offices get a lot of supplies shipped regularly in small to large-size boxes. Ask the facilities team at your workplace
  to set aside some boxes for you. Trust us, you’ll end up with a stack of thick packing boxes—free and easy.

• Freecycle

  Freecycle is a vast non-profit community network; it promotes free giveaways of items instead of throwing them out. Freecycle has plenty of people offering free moving boxes.

• Starbucks

  Did you know Starbucks gets daily shipments?

  Step in for coffee and walk out with a couple of perfectly sized boxes for your kitchen items. It never hurts to
  ask!

• Friends and Family

  Don’t overlook your own network! I’ve reached out to friends who’ve recently moved, and they were happy to offload their
  boxes to me. A simple group text can yield more boxes than you expect.

• Farmers Markets

  It sounds strange, but after a long day, vendors often have boxes left from unloading produce. You may get some really
  sturdy boxes from vendors at your local farmers market in bulk!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Wrapping Up

Finding free moving boxes in reliable condition can be a fun scavenger hunt once you know where to look. From
grocery stores to office supply shops, there are plenty of opportunities to score free packing boxes and save money while moving.

💡Don’t be afraid to ask—most people are happy to get rid of them, and you’ll be doing both your wallet and the planet a
favor by reusing instead of buying new ones.

Good luck with your move, and remember, it’s these little wins that can make the whole process feel just a bit smoother!