If you’re getting ready to move, you might be wondering, “Where can I find free moving boxes near me?” Buying brand-new boxes can be expensive and moving already comes with enough costs—like hiring movers or renting storage space. Finding free boxes is a great way to cut down on expenses.
A local move can cost around $1,250, while a long-distance move (about 1,000 miles) can go up to $4,890. With so many expenses, spending extra on moving boxes might not seem worth it—especially since most of them end up being tossed or recycled after the move.
Luckily, you don’t have to spend money on moving boxes. Many local stores, online platforms and community groups offer free boxes, helping you save on moving costs. Unless you need special boxes for fragile items like TVs or mirrors, you can probably pack your entire home using free boxes.
How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?
The price of moving boxes varies based on size and type. Standard boxes usually cost between $1 for a small box and $3.75 for a large one. However, specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or mirror boxes for fragile items are more expensive.
Packing supplies can also add up. A pack of packing paper costs around $9, while glass-packing kits range from $10 to $15. If you need a full kitchen packing kit for dishes and glasses, expect to pay about $102.
If you’re considering buying a full moving kit, here’s a general idea of the costs:
- One-bedroom apartment: Costs between $69 to $90 and includes 14 to 29 boxes.
- Two-bedroom house: Priced around $178 to $197 with 55 to 60 boxes.
- Four-bedroom house: Can range from $311 to $404, including 86 to 119 boxes.
Moving kits often come with extra supplies like packing tape, bubble wrap and markers to make packing easier.
Here’s an estimated cost for different sizes of cardboard boxes:
- Small boxes – $1 to $1.70 each
- Medium boxes – $2.35 to $2.79 each
- Large boxes – Around $3 each
- Extra-large boxes – About $3.75 each
- Wardrobe boxes – $8 to $12 each
- Picture boxes – Around $10 each
How Many Moving Boxes Do You Need?
Here’s a rough estimate of how much you might spend on moving boxes:
- Studio apartment: Around $97 worth of boxes
- One-bedroom home: About $124 in box costs
- Three-bedroom home: Expect to spend around $178
To get a more accurate count, you can use a packing calculator which considers factors like the number of bedrooms, the number of people moving and your packing habits.
Also, be mindful of weight limits! Boxes can typically hold between 30 to 150 pounds, depending on their size and whether they have single- or double-wall construction. Avoid overloading them to prevent tearing or breakage.
25 Places to Get Free Moving Boxes Near You
Looking for free moving boxes in your area? Here are some great places to check out and save money during your move.
U-Haul Box Exchange
U-Haul has a Customer Connect Box Exchange, where people give away or trade moving supplies. Just enter your location and search for “Free Boxes” to find available options. Many people offer leftover boxes after moving.
Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular site for finding free items, including moving boxes. Check the “Free” section under “For Sale”, where locals post giveaways. You can also create a post letting others know you’re looking for boxes.
The Freecycle Network
Freecycle is a non-profit platform where people give away things they no longer need. Sign up for free, join your local Freecycle group and request free moving boxes.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace isn’t just for buying and selling—you can also find free stuff. Search “free boxes”, set your location and check if anyone nearby is giving them away.
Nextdoor.com
Nextdoor.com connects you with your local neighborhood and is a great place to find free moving boxes. Check the “Classifieds” section where people often list free items, including boxes. If you don’t see any, you can create a post asking if anyone has extras to give away.
OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile app where people sell and give away items. Just search “free boxes” and you’ll find listings from locals offering them at no cost.
Large Retail Stores
Big stores like Walmart, Costco, Target and Home Depot receive shipments daily and usually have extra boxes. Smaller stores like dollar stores, shoe stores and home supply shops may also have boxes available.
Pro Tip
Visit these stores while they’re restocking shelves to increase your chances of finding boxes. Always ask a staff member before taking any.
Liquor Stores
Liquor and wine stores receive frequent shipments and often have extra boxes. These boxes are sturdy and come with dividers, making them great for packing fragile items like wine glasses. Larger stores usually have more boxes, so don’t hesitate to ask the manager.
Bookstores
Both large chain bookstores and small local shops get regular deliveries and have strong boxes designed to hold heavy books. These are perfect for packing small items, decorations or books. University bookstores are also a great place to check.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores restock their shelves frequently especially with fresh produce, so they always have extra boxes. Next time you go shopping, ask a store manager if they have any boxes available—they’re often happy to give them away.
Pharmacies
Stores like Walgreens and CVS get shipments several times a week. If you see a pile of flattened boxes near the store, ask a staff member if you can take some. To save time, call ahead and ask when they receive deliveries so you can pick up boxes when they’re available.
Arts, Crafts & Hobby Stores
Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Jo-Ann receive shipments regularly and often have various box sizes available. Whether you need small or large boxes, these stores are worth checking.
Coffee Shops
Big chains like Starbucks and small local coffee shops get frequent deliveries of supplies and food. These usually come in small to medium-sized boxes which are great for packing and moving.
Bars
Similar to liquor stores, bars receive shipments in sturdy boxes with dividers, making them perfect for packing fragile glassware. Since bars don’t have much storage space, they get rid of boxes quickly. Ask when their shipments arrive so you can grab the boxes before they’re thrown out. Moving around holidays? Even better! Bars stock up for events like St. Patrick’s Day and the Super Bowl, meaning more boxes will be available.
Restaurants
Fast food places and restaurants receive frequent deliveries, so they usually have plenty of boxes to spare. Just be sure to avoid boxes with food stains to keep your belongings from picking up unwanted odors.
Offices
Your workplace can be a great place to find free boxes. Offices receive shipments of printer paper and supplies in sturdy boxes with lids. If you work in a large office, check the recycling area—it’s often full of boxes perfect for moving.
Recycling Centers
Recycling drop-off points can be a goldmine for free boxes. Many cities have collection areas where people leave flattened cardboard. If the boxes are still in good condition, you’ll likely find plenty for your move.
Auto Shops
Auto parts stores, repair shops and oil change stations get regular shipments of car parts. These deliveries come in large, strong boxes. Stop by and ask if they have extras—they’re usually happy to give them away.
Apartment Complexes
People are constantly moving in and out of apartment buildings, leaving behind lots of boxes. Check the recycling area (with permission) or ask the apartment office staff if they have any spare boxes from previous tenants.
College Dorms
At the beginning or end of the school year, college dorms are a great place to look for free boxes. Students moving in or out often have extra boxes they no longer need, making it an ideal time to collect them.
Friends & Family
One of the easiest ways to find free moving boxes is by asking friends and family. Call, text or visit them to see if they have spare boxes from deliveries or past moves. You can also post on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) to let people know you’re looking for boxes—someone might have extras to share.
Yard & Garage Sales
Garage sales often leave people with extra boxes once they’re done selling items. Stop by and ask if they’re willing to give some away. If you go near the end of the sale, they’re more likely to give them for free rather than dispose of them.
Neighbors Who Recently Moved
Walk around your neighborhood and look for houses where people have recently moved in. They might have leftover boxes placed for recycling. Just be sure to ask for permission before taking any. You can also ask neighbors directly—they may be happy to give away extra boxes.
Schools
Local schools (elementary, middle or high schools) get frequent shipments of books and supplies. Call the school office and ask if they have any extra boxes. The start of the school year is a great time to check since schools receive many deliveries during this period.
Libraries
Libraries regularly receive large book shipments and the boxes they come in are sturdy and great for packing. These boxes are ideal for moving books, clothes, shoes or smaller household items.
Other Ways to Get Moving Boxes
Save Boxes from Your Mail
Instead of throwing away Amazon boxes, USPS Priority Mail boxes or other delivery packages, save them for your move. These can be useful for packing smaller items and you’ll already have them on hand.
Rent Plastic Moving Boxes
If you don’t want to use cardboard, you can rent plastic moving boxes from companies like BluBox-It, Rent a Green Box or Bungo Box. These boxes are strong, reusable and stackable, making them a great eco-friendly option. Many of these companies also offer moving blankets and equipment for rent.
Buy What You Still Need from Budget Stores
Finding free moving boxes takes time and some specialty boxes may be hard to find for free. If you need extra supplies, consider these affordable options:
- Amazon: Sells a variety of moving supplies, with free shipping for Prime members.
- Walmart: Offers budget-friendly moving boxes and packing materials.
- Home Depot: A great place for standard and specialty boxes, dish-packing kits and more.
- Staples: A convenient option for buying moving boxes and packing supplies.
If you’re okay with spending a little, these retailers can help you get everything you need for a smooth move.
Do’s & Don’ts of Finding Moving Boxes
Do Ask for Permission Before Taking Boxes
Always ask store staff or office managers before taking any boxes. Grabbing them without permission can be rude and might cause issues. Calling ahead is a good idea to see if they have any available, saving you time and effort.
Don’t Take Damaged Boxes
Avoid using torn, weak or broken boxes. Moving can be rough on your items, so it’s important to pack them in strong, sturdy boxes that won’t fall apart. Damaged boxes won’t provide enough support and could lead to broken belongings.
Do Let People Know You Need Free Boxes
If you’re struggling to find free boxes, post on Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor.com or local community groups. Let your neighbors know you’re looking for moving boxes—many people have extras from recent moves and might be happy to give them away.
Don’t Use Dirty or Smelly Boxes
Avoid boxes that are dirty, damp or have strong odors. Boxes that were used for food or other messy items can transfer smells to your belongings. Stick to clean, dry boxes to keep your items fresh and undamaged.
Do Stay Safe When Picking Up Boxes from Strangers
If you’re getting boxes from an online listing or a stranger, take precautions. Meet in a public, well-lit area and consider bringing a friend along for safety.
Use a Box Calculator to Plan Ahead
Before you start collecting boxes, it helps to estimate how many you’ll need. Online box calculators can give you a good idea by factoring in details like the number of bedrooms, the number of people in your home and your packing style. This way, you won’t end up with too many or too few boxes for your move.
Moving Soon?
STI Movers in Dallas is ready to help! As a trusted & professional moving company, they offer reliable services to make your move smooth and stress-free. They are fully licensed and insured, ensuring your belongings are handled with care.
Get a quote today and let them make your moving experience easier.
Wishing you a hassle-free move!🚛📦
