Moving can be expensive, but your packing supplies don’t have to be. One of the easiest ways to save money during a move is by finding free moving boxes instead of purchasing them. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, there are dozens of reliable places to score free boxes—and most are closer than you think.
Use this guide to discover 25+ places where you can find free moving boxes near you, how many you might need, and smart ways to make the most of your packing supplies.
Why Free Moving Boxes Matter
The average cost of a long-distance move is $4,890—and surprisingly, boxes and supplies can eat up as much as 10% of that cost. That’s nearly $489 just for cardboard and tape.
But here’s the good news: Nearly 3 in 4 movers end up purchasing supplies they could’ve gotten for free (Lux + Pollfish proprietary data). With a little planning and know-how, you can skip the cost entirely.
What’s in This Article:
- Top 5 Places to Get Free Boxes
- How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?
- How Many Boxes Do I Need?
- 25 Places to Get Free Moving Boxes
- Other Ways to Get Moving Boxes
- FAQs
Top 5 Places to Get Free Boxes
Here are the best places to check first:
| Source | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook Marketplace | Everything from dish boxes to wardrobe boxes | Local, fast, and easy to search |
| Grocery Stores | Medium to large boxes | Constant inventory turnover |
| Craigslist “Free” | All box types | Search by location and category |
| Liquor Stores | Divided boxes for glasses | Strong, uniform-sized, and sturdy |
| U-Haul Box Exchange | All sizes | Designed for mover-to-mover reuse |
How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?
If you buy new, here’s what you might spend:
- Small boxes: $1–$1.70 each
- Medium boxes: $2.35–$2.79
- Large boxes: $3–$3.75
- Wardrobe boxes: $8–$12
- Dish/Glass kits: $10–$100+
A moving kit for a one-bedroom apartment can cost $90. For a four-bedroom home, expect $300–$400. That’s why free sources make a huge difference.
How Many Boxes Do I Need?
Short answer: more than you think.
On average:
- Studio = 15–25 boxes
- 1-bedroom = 25–40 boxes
- 3-bedroom = 60–100+ boxes
Pro Tip: Nearly 49% of Americans underestimate how many boxes they need (Pollfish survey).
Use our free packing calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your household size and packing style.
25 Places to Get Free Moving Boxes
Here’s the full list of trusted places to search:
- Facebook Marketplace
- Craigslist (Free section)
- Nextdoor.com
- U-Haul Customer Connect Box Exchange
- The Freecycle Network
- Grocery stores
- Liquor stores
- Big-box retailers (Walmart, Costco, Target)
- Bookstores (especially college)
- Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens)
- Dollar stores
- Coffee shops
- Restaurants and fast food chains
- Bars and pubs
- Offices (especially copy paper boxes)
- Auto shops and parts stores
- Apartment complex mailrooms
- Recycling drop-off centers
- Yard and garage sales
- University dorms (start/end of term)
- Friends and family
- Arts & crafts stores
- Shoe stores
- Hardware/home improvement stores
- Schools and libraries
Be courteous—always ask first and avoid boxes with stains, damage, or odors.
Other Ways to Get Moving Boxes
Save the Boxes You Already Get
Keep any boxes from deliveries (Amazon, UPS, etc.) for reuse.
Rent Reusable Plastic Bins
Companies like U-Haul, BungoBox, and Rent-a-Green-Box let you rent heavy-duty plastic bins.
See: Best Plastic Moving Box Companies
Buy Smart If You Must
If you must buy, look for bundle discounts at:
- Walmart
- Home Depot
- U-Haul
- Staples
Also consider what kind of move you’re planning. If you’re moving across state lines, hiring trusted interstate movers can make the process smoother, and often includes professional packing supplies and advice on where to get boxes for free.
And if your relocation includes shipping a vehicle, don’t forget to check out the top car shipping company options to ensure everything, including your car, arrives safely at your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Moving Boxes
Where can I get moving boxes for free near me?
Start with local grocery stores, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and big-box retailers. Don’t forget to check with friends or neighbors.
Are free moving boxes safe to use?
Yes, as long as they’re clean and structurally sound. Avoid boxes that held perishable food or have signs of water damage.
What day is best to find free boxes?
Visit stores after deliveries—typically Monday, Wednesday, or Friday mornings.
How can I tell if a used box is safe?
Inspect for rips, stains, dampness, or strong odors. Boxes should be firm when pressure is applied.
These questions can be formatted as SEO-friendly callout boxes using H2/H3 tags to help earn Google featured snippets.
Expert Tip from Move.org
According to Move.org, “The best time to get boxes is just before the store recycles them. Ask employees when deliveries happen, and always get permission first.”
Eco-Friendly Bonus
According to the EPA, over 33 million tons of cardboard packaging are used annually, with a 96% recycling rate. Choosing used boxes isn’t just economical—it’s environmentally responsible.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to spend a fortune on moving supplies. With a little time and effort, you can easily find all the boxes you need for free. Use this list as your go-to guide and save hundreds during your next move.