Smart Ways to Find Moving Supplies Without Spending a Dime

Moving can be stressful but saving money on supplies makes it a little easier. If you're wondering where I get free moving boxes, you're not alone. Many people look for ways to cut costs during a move and getting free boxes is one of the best ways to do it. Fortunately, there are several places where you can find sturdy boxes without spending a single dollar.

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets

One of the best places to find free moving boxes is your local grocery store. These stores receive shipments daily and often have a surplus of sturdy boxes. Simply ask a store employee or manager if they have any available. Most stores are happy to give them away since they would otherwise be discarded.

Liquor Stores

Liquor stores are another excellent option. Since they receive heavy bottles of wine & spirits, their boxes are thick and durable—perfect for packing fragile items. Stop by a nearby liquor store and ask if they have empty boxes to spare.

Big-Box Retailers

Large stores like Walmart, Target and Costco receive frequent shipments & often have extra boxes available. Visit early in the morning or late at night when employees are stocking shelves and politely ask if they have any unused boxes.

Office Buildings

Offices get deliveries of paper, electronics and office supplies regularly. These shipments come in strong boxes that are great for moving. Check with offices in your area, especially print shops or corporate buildings and see if they have any boxes they don’t need.

Craigslist & Facebook Marketplace

Many people give away moving supplies after they’ve finished their own move. Websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace often have listings for free moving boxes. Just search for "free boxes" in your area & you may find someone nearby who’s happy to give them away.

U-Haul Box Exchange

Did you know that U-Haul has a program where people can give away their used moving boxes? The U-Haul Customer Connect Box Exchange is an online community where people share free moving supplies. Check their website to see if someone in your area has boxes to spare.

Local Recycling Centers

Recycling centers collect a large number of boxes and many of them are still in great condition. Visit a nearby center and ask if they have any clean, reusable boxes you can take.

Apartment Complexes & Dorms

If you live near an apartment complex or a college dorm, chances are someone has recently moved in or out. These places are great for finding used moving boxes. Check with the building manager or look around designated trash or recycling areas for discarded boxes.

Friends, Family & Neighbors

Before searching elsewhere, ask the people around you. Friends, family and neighbors might have spare boxes from previous moves or deliveries. A quick call or message can help you gather enough boxes without any hassle.

Bookstores

Bookstores receive shipments of books in sturdy boxes that can hold a lot of weight. If you have a local bookstore or a branch of a big chain like Barnes & Noble nearby, ask if they have any extra boxes they no longer need.

Final Thoughts