Moving can be expensive but getting boxes for free can help you save some money. If you’re wondering where can you get free moving boxes, there are plenty of places to check. Many businesses and people give away boxes they no longer need and all you have to do is ask or look in the right places.
Grocery Stores & Supermarkets
Large grocery stores receive shipments daily and they often have sturdy boxes they need to get rid of. Visit your local store and ask an employee if they have spare boxes. Produce and canned goods boxes are some of the strongest and best for moving.
Liquor Stores
Liquor stores have small but strong boxes that are perfect for packing heavy items like books and kitchenware. Since these boxes are designed to hold glass bottles, they are usually quite sturdy.
Big-Box Retailers
Stores like Walmart, Target and Costco receive shipments in bulk. If you visit early in the morning or late at night, you may find empty boxes ready for disposal. Just ask a store associate if you can take some.
Office Buildings
If you have friends or family working in an office, ask them if they have extra boxes from paper shipments. Copy paper boxes are great for moving because they come with lids, making them easy to stack.
Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist
Many people give away their used moving boxes online. Search Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or even local community groups to see if anyone is offering free boxes. It’s common for people to give them away after their move.
Recycling Centers
Recycling centers often have a section where people drop off boxes. Check with your local recycling facility and ask if you can take some of the boxes they have collected.
Friends & Family
If someone you know has moved recently they may still have their boxes. A quick call or message can help you get what you need without going out of your way.
Apartment Complexes
People move in and out of apartments all the time and they often leave boxes near dumpsters or in common areas. Check your local apartment complexes for free boxes but be sure to ask permission before taking them.
U-Haul Box Exchange
U-Haul has a customer-to-customer box exchange where people post free boxes they no longer need. Visit their website to see if someone in your area is giving away moving supplies.
Bookstores
Bookstores receive shipments in strong, well-built boxes. Whether it’s a small local shop or a large chain like Barnes & Noble, they often have boxes available. Just ask an employee when they receive new shipments.
In The End
Now that you know where can you get free moving boxes, you can save money on packing supplies and put that cash toward other moving expenses. Always check with businesses before taking boxes and make sure they are clean and sturdy enough for your belongings. With a little effort, you’ll have all the boxes you need—without spending a single dollar.
