10 Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You (Plus Cheap Options)
Moving boxes are an essential part of the moving process. They provide a convenient and secure way to pack and transport your belongings to your new home. With so many options available for obtaining boxes, it can be overwhelming trying to determine where to get them from. Below, we’ll walk through the best free and paid options for moving boxes near you, plus how many you’ll actually need.
Where Can I Get Free Moving Boxes?
The best places to find free moving boxes are grocery stores, big box retailers, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, Craigslist, local moving companies, and recycling centers. The best time to find free boxes is often early morning after stores receive shipments, before boxes are broken down for recycling.
Free Moving Boxes Near Me
Obtaining moving boxes for free is a great way to save money when moving. However, it’s going to require a little legwork on your part. Here are some popular places to obtain boxes for free near you.
1. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Nextdoor
Online classifieds and neighborhood apps are often the fastest way to find free moving boxes. Search “moving boxes” in your area on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, or Nextdoor, and you’ll typically find people who just finished their own move and want the boxes gone. Neighborhood apps and local Facebook or HOA groups tend to move especially fast, since people who recently moved often give boxes away within hours because they don’t want them taking up space in the garage. If your first search comes up empty, keep checking daily, since free items on these platforms tend to disappear quickly.
2. Big Box Stores
Grocery stores, liquor stores, pharmacies, and retailers like Target often have a steady supply of shipping boxes. Customer service or receiving departments are usually the best places to ask. You may want to call ahead to check what they have on hand, but if you’re already in the area it never hurts to stop by and ask.
3. Local Businesses
Aside from big box retailers you may want to try some local businesses, such as paint stores, electronics stores, or clothing stores. They too tend to receive regular shipments and have boxes they may be willing to give away for free.
4. Moving Companies
Local moving companies often have leftover boxes from previous jobs that customers didn’t want to keep, and many are happy to pass them along for free or at a low cost. It’s worth calling a few companies in your area to ask, and while you’re at it, this is also a good time to start comparing quotes if you’re still choosing a moving company for the rest of your move.
5. Recycling Centers
A lot of recycling centers collect and sort boxes of all shapes and sizes, and may have boxes available for free. This is a great option for those who are looking to save money and who are environmentally conscious, since you’re giving a second life to boxes that would otherwise end up in a landfill.
Cheap Moving Boxes Near Me
If you don’t have the time and energy to find free moving boxes, there are plenty of places where you can obtain moving boxes for cheap.
6. Home Depot and Lowe’s
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s carry boxes and supplies for moving. Home Depot in particular has a wide range of moving boxes, including small, medium, and large boxes, as well as specialized boxes for items such as clothes, dishes, mirrors, and TVs. Their boxes are made from durable corrugated cardboard, designed to withstand a rigorous move, and are offered at a competitive price.
7. Walmart
Walmart carries an affordable selection of moving boxes and packing supplies in store and online, making it an easy stop if you’re already picking up other moving essentials.
8. Amazon and U-Haul
Purchasing boxes online is another solid option. Retailers like U-Haul or Amazon offer a wide range of boxes and supplies that can be delivered directly to your door. This is especially convenient if you’re short on time or live in an area where moving supply stores aren’t readily available, and you can compare prices and read reviews before you buy.
9. Office Supply Stores
Office supply stores, such as Office Depot or Staples, carry boxes and moving supplies as well. However, a majority of their box selection is geared towards office spaces, so you’ll find a large selection of banker boxes. These types of boxes have removable lids and pre-cut holes on the sides for your hands, making them a great option for transporting your breakable items. There is no question about which way is up with these types of boxes, and the pre-cut handles make them easy to carry.
10. Self-Storage Facilities
Self-storage facilities are in the business of storage, so they will have moving and packing supplies too. Much like your local home improvement stores, self-storage facilities will have an array of box sizes along with packing supplies. Inventory will vary from location to location, so you may want to call ahead to see if they have the type and size of boxes you’re looking for.
Finding Moving Boxes in Wellington, FL
If you’re moving within Wellington or the surrounding Palm Beach County area, your options above still apply, but it helps to know where to start. If you search “moving boxes near me,” you’ll usually get the best results from local businesses, neighborhood apps, and stores close to home rather than big national chains. In Wellington, many residents start by checking places like Publix, Costco, Walmart, Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and local storage facilities. Availability changes daily since it depends on recent shipments, so calling ahead before you make a trip is always a good idea.
How Many Moving Boxes Do You Need
Before you start collecting or buying boxes, it helps to have a rough idea of quantity so you don’t end up short mid-move or stuck storing a stack of extras.
| Home Size | Approximate Boxes Needed |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | 15 to 25 |
| 1 Bedroom | 20 to 35 |
| 2 Bedroom | 35 to 50 |
| 3 Bedroom | 50 to 75 |
| 4 or More Bedrooms | 75 or more |
A good rule of thumb is approximately 10 to 15 boxes per room, excluding bathrooms and closets. These numbers will vary based on how much you own and whether you’re planning to declutter before you move, which can meaningfully cut down on how many boxes you actually need.
Boxes You Should Avoid When Moving
Not every free box is worth taking. Skip boxes that are damp or smell musty, since that’s a sign of water damage and, especially in South Florida’s humidity, potential mold. Also avoid produce boxes, which can carry bugs or lingering odors, boxes with grease stains, oversized boxes that get too heavy to lift safely once packed, and any box with a weak or damaged bottom that could give out mid-move.
Factors to Consider When Obtaining Moving Boxes
When deciding where to obtain your moving boxes from, there are a few additional factors to consider.
- Consider the size and shape of the boxes you will need.
- Consider the quality of the boxes. You’ll want something strong and durable enough to withstand the rigors of moving.
- Consider the number of boxes you’ll need. How many belongings do you have and what’s the weight of these items?
- Consider the cost of boxes. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is important to consider the value of your belongings. Using high quality boxes will help ensure your belongings are protected during your move.
Selling Your Home? Start Collecting Boxes Early
If you’re preparing to sell your home, don’t wait until closing is around the corner to start packing. Decluttering before you list can make your home more appealing to buyers and gives you a head start on your own move. Start with items you don’t use daily, such as holiday decorations, extra kitchen items, books, and seasonal clothing. Preparing your home for sale and five things to know before listing are both worth a read if you’re at this stage.
Need Help Buying or Selling Before Your Move?
Moving often starts months before the actual moving day. If you’re preparing to sell your home in Wellington or the surrounding Palm Beach County area, our team can help you understand what improvements matter, how to prepare your home, and how to make your next move easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to get free moving boxes?
The best places to find free moving boxes include Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, Craigslist, grocery stores, big box retailers, and local moving companies. Availability changes frequently, so it’s worth checking a few sources rather than relying on just one.
How do I get moving boxes fast?
The fastest way to get moving boxes is to head over to a local store that sells them. Online retailers, like Amazon or U-Haul, often offer fast shipping too, but delivery windows depend on your location and the seller, so check the estimated delivery date before you order if you’re on a tight timeline.
What to use instead of boxes when moving?
Popular alternatives to moving boxes are reusable plastic containers, storage totes, laundry baskets, duffel bags, suitcases, backpacks, furniture drawers, and trash bags.
Where can I buy moving boxes for cheap?
Places like Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon tend to have the most affordable boxes for moving.
What packing supplies do I need?
Boxes, packing tape, permanent markers, bubble wrap, packing paper, stretch wrap, labels, and furniture blankets for larger pieces.
Can cardboard moving boxes be reused multiple times?
Yes, if the box itself is good quality it will hold up for multiple moves.
Where can I get free empty boxes?
The places mentioned in this article, especially big box stores, online classifieds, and local moving companies, are going to be your best opportunity to score boxes for free.
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Find free moving boxes near you, plus cheap options from stores and online sources. Learn where to get boxes and how many you need. #realestate #movingboxesSchedule a Real Estate Consultation
Final Thoughts
There are countless places where you can find free and paid moving boxes. So if you are one of the many home buyers or sellers wondering where can I get large moving boxes for free, we hope this article was helpful. While free boxes are readily available if you put the time and energy into obtaining them, sometimes they aren’t the right size or in the best condition. If that’s the case, there are several places to purchase inexpensive boxes that are good for moving. Once you’ve got your boxes sorted, take a look at our full moving checklist to keep the rest of your move on track.
About the Author
Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote this guide to help her clients find affordable moving boxes without the last minute scramble.
Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughout Wellington Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you and make a move to Wellington(opens in new tab), call or e-mail her today.
Areas of service include Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, and more.
