Wondering where to get free boxes for moving without spending a fortune? Moving can be costly, and buying brand-new boxes can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are many accessible and eco-friendly options for sourcing free moving boxes if you know where to look. Whether you’re moving across the city or just a few blocks away, this 2025 guide offers 10 practical ways to find strong, free cardboard boxes to make your move stress-free and affordable.
1. Supermarkets: A Hidden Goldmine
Supermarkets are one of the best answers to where to get free boxes for moving. These stores receive large shipments daily, and those items are packed in durable cardboard boxes. Visit your local supermarket in the morning (after deliveries) and ask staff or the manager if you can take some boxes from the stockroom or recycling area.
2. Coffee Shops: Small but Sturdy Boxes
If you’re wondering where to get free boxes for moving, don’t overlook your neighborhood coffee shop. Chains and independent cafes alike receive frequent deliveries in medium-sized boxes perfect for packing books, kitchen items, or decor. A quick and polite inquiry can often result in a helpful stack of clean, well-maintained boxes.
3. Liquor Stores and Off-Licences
Liquor stores are a surprisingly solid option for where to get free boxes for moving. Bottles are shipped in heavy-duty boxes with partitions, making them ideal for fragile or heavy items. Just ask the cashier or store staff if you can grab a few after their latest delivery run.
4. Retail Stores (Clothing, Electronics, etc.)
Looking for where to get free boxes for moving in your shopping area? Visit local clothing outlets, home stores, or electronics retailers. They unpack stock frequently and usually discard the empty boxes. Timing matters, try visiting in the early afternoon or just after stock delivery days for the best chances.
5. Garden Centers and Nurseries
Garden centers are another great source if you’re wondering where to get free boxes for moving. These stores receive large shipments of tools, pots, and plants in strong cardboard boxes. Since these items can be heavy, the boxes tend to be thick and reliable, perfect for packing fragile or bulky household items.
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6. Fast Food Chains and Restaurants
Another often-overlooked place where to get free boxes for moving is your favorite fast-food joint. Chains like McDonald’s or KFC get supplies in small-to-medium cardboard boxes. These are handy for organizing smaller items or kitchen essentials. Be sure to visit during off-peak hours and ask politely for clean, unused boxes.
7. Schools and Universities
Educational institutions might not come to mind immediately when thinking about where to get free boxes for moving, but they often have them in abundance. Schools receive deliveries of books, supplies, and equipment in sturdy boxes. Contact administrative offices or janitorial staff to see if they have any you can take off their hands.
8. Freecycle: An Eco-Friendly Online Option
If you’re digitally searching where to get free boxes for moving, Freecycle is a treasure trove. It’s a platform where people give away things for free, often including moving supplies. Users post listings offering leftover boxes, and you can reply to claim them for pickup. It’s sustainable, easy, and completely free.
9. Facebook Marketplace:
Still not sure where to get free boxes for moving? Try browsing the “Free” section on Facebook Marketplace. Many people list gently used moving boxes after they’ve finished relocating. You can find various sizes and types, usually bundled and ready for pickup in your area.
10. Gumtree and Local Classifieds
Gumtree is a powerful local classifieds site that can solve your “where to get free boxes for moving” dilemma. Similar to Craigslist, it features a “Free Stuff” section where users often post moving supplies. Set alerts or check regularly for free box listings near you.
Conclusion:
Now you know exactly where to get free boxes for moving without spending a dime. From supermarkets and liquor stores to digital platforms like Freecycle and Facebook Marketplace, there are many creative ways to gather moving supplies for free. Not only will this save you money, but it also reduces waste and supports sustainability. Start your search early, be polite when asking, and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to find all the boxes you need for a smooth, budget-friendly move.
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According to a 2025 survey by MyGoodMovers, approximately 33% of people find free moving boxes through their local community, highlighting the effectiveness of leveraging personal and neighborhood networks. Additionally, the average cost of buying moving boxes for a two-bedroom apartment can exceed $150, underscoring the financial benefit of sourcing free boxes.(source: My Good Movers)
References:
- NerdWallet. (2024). 17 Places to Get Free or Cheap Moving Boxes. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/moving-boxes-cheap-free
2.CNET. (2025). Here’s How I Scored a Ton of Free Moving Boxes. https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/how-to-get-free-moving-boxes/
3.Lifehacker. (2025). Where to Get Free Moving Boxes for Your Next Move. https://lifehacker.com/home/free-moving-boxes
4.Move.org. (2025). Where to Get Free Moving Boxes. https://www.move.org/where-to-find-free-moving-boxes/
FAQs:
You can get free boxes and packaging from local recycling centers, liquor stores, bookstores, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Freecycle.
Yes, many supermarkets will give away cardboard boxes for free, especially if you ask the staff politely.
To pack and transport your belongings, you can use alternative containers such as suitcases, laundry baskets, bins, and reusable bags.
You can catalog moving boxes by labeling them with room names or numbers and keeping a detailed inventory list of their contents.
Yes, post offices often sell various sizes of shipping boxes, but they may only sometimes be free.
Yes, you can ask shops for cardboard boxes. Many retail stores are willing to give away their empty boxes for free.
Meet Mary K, the talented author behind PackPaa. With a passion for innovative packaging solutions, Mary shares insights and expertise to elevate your business.
