How to Get Free Boxes for Moving, Shipping, and Storage
. Whether you’re moving to a new home, shipping items, or organizing your space, finding free boxes can save you money and reduce waste. Many businesses and organizations offer sturdy boxes at no cost, making it easy to collect what you need without spending a dime. Here’s where and how to get free boxes for any occasion.
Where to Find Free Boxes
- Retail Stores & Supermarkets: Grocery stores, liquor stores, and big-box retailers receive shipments in durable cardboard boxes daily. Ask store employees if they have extras available.
- Office Buildings & Print Shops: Offices and print shops often have leftover boxes from paper deliveries and other supplies. These tend to be clean and well-maintained.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Freecycle have listings where people give away moving boxes for free.
- Recycling Centers & Dumpsters: Some recycling facilities allow people to take usable boxes before they’re processed. Just be sure to choose clean and intact boxes.
- Apartment Complexes & Businesses: Large buildings often have extra boxes from recent shipments or tenant move-outs. Checking with management or maintenance staff can be helpful.
- Postal & Shipping Stores: UPS, FedEx, and USPS locations sometimes discard unused boxes or packing supplies—asking politely may lead to free finds.
Tips for Collecting Free Boxes
- Ask Early in the Day: Stores often break down boxes for recycling in the afternoon, so check early to grab the best options.
- Look for Sturdy Boxes: Avoid boxes with tears, stains, or weak spots to ensure your items stay protected.
- Plan Ahead: If you need a large number of boxes for moving, start collecting weeks in advance to gather enough supplies.
With a little effort and resourcefulness, you can find free boxes easily and keep your moving or storage costs low!