How to Save Money During Your Move: Where to Get Free or Cheap Moving Boxes

Moving to a new home can be an expensive endeavor. Some estimates report that moving within the same state can cost roughly $1,170, while moving to a different state can cost well over $5,000. Any way you slice it, that is a lot of money. As you look at moving services near you, it is vital to search for any way you can save.

12 Places to Look For Moving Services and Boxes

An easy place to save some money is with your moving boxes. The cost of boxes adds up quickly if you purchase them off Amazon, Wal-Mart or Home Depot. You may be wondering where to buy moving boxes outside of those stores. The truth is there are plenty of resources at your disposal where you can obtain cheap or free moving boxes.

1. Friends, Neighbors and Coworkers

Before you spend a dime on moving boxes, you should ask those close to you if they have any boxes lying around. They may have just moved too. Often times, friends and family are more than happy to help you out and give you moving boxes. If people you know have just moved, then you can also ask for their advice on which moving companies are worth contacting. Many companies offer great moving services you should look into as you are on the hunt for boxes.

2. Community Facebook Groups

Most cities have Facebook groups where locals gather to discuss relevant events. You can join one of these groups to ask, “Where can I buy moving boxes?” Locals will gladly point you in the right direction, and you may even make a few friends in the process.

3. Craigslist

Craigslist is a great place if you want to know where to get free boxes for moving . The site even has a “Free” section where locals give away all kinds of items. Craigslist also lets you post an ad, so you can let people know you are searching for boxes. Some people may want some money for their boxes, but it is still a great deal. You should make this site one of the first to check off on your moving checklist.

4. Schools

You likely have several elementary and middle schools in your area. You can call around to see if they have any spare boxes in storage. The best time to call is right before or after the beginning of a new school year. The school will have just received a ton of new books and supplies, so they are more likely to have extra boxes on hand. Your local schools are great resources when you are on the lookout for free moving boxes.

5. Liquor Stores

This is where the list gets a bit more creative. If you live close to a liquor store, then you can ask the manager if you can take a few boxes. Liquor stores receive shipments constantly, so they usually have some boxes available. Larger liquor stores tend to have more boxes than they can store. You will actually be doing them a favor by driving over to pick some up.

6. Freecycle

Freecycle is a site similar to Craigslist. You can sign up for free and access local community groups. You can post within your local networks that you need to know where to get free moving boxes. People are willing to help you out, and you can similarly give advice to people near you. It is a great site to know in the event you require other moving services, such as hiring a few guys to help lift furniture.

7. Grocery Stores

Large and small grocery stores alike receive shipments daily or weekly. They often have to maintain fresh produce, so there are usually a few boxes laying around. The next time you go pick up groceries, you can talk to the manager and ask if there are any boxes you can take home. Most will be happy to let you take some. After all, it ends up being less work on their end.

8. Recycling Dropoff Points

You should know where the nearest recycling location is to you. They make for great places to drop off glass bottles and aluminum cans. However, many people also use them to drop off cardboard. Over 100 billion cardboard boxes are produced each year in the United States, and roughly 75% of them are recycled. Therefore, there is an extremely good chance you can find at least a few in a recycling center near you.

9. Your Workplace

If you do not feel like calling around for moving services, then you should check your own workplace. This is especially beneficial if you work in a large office with a basement. There could be a trove of boxes right where you work just waiting to be taken. You should make sure to ask your boss if it is all right if you use some boxes so that you do not end up stepping on anyone’s toes.

10. Bookstores

When was the last time you stepped foot in a brick-and-mortar bookstore? They are still around, and they have some heavy-duty boxes to transport all those novels. A great place to call would be a college bookstore. They may be more willing to help you out, particularly if you are still a student.

11. U-Haul Box Exchange

Many people do not realize this, but U-Haul offers a Customer Connect Box Exchange. All you have to do is go online, enter your location and search for a term like “free boxes.” You will soon find someone who lives near you giving away free moving boxes to get them out of their new home as soon as possible. U-Haul offers many moving services, and this is one you should take advantage of.

12. Discount Hubs

Finally, if you do not mind spending some money on boxes, then you can find discount hubs online. You can find the best deals on boxes through a fast search, and they will be shipped out to you quickly. You can save even more if you buy larger bundles.

Conclusion

Utilizing a couple of these moving tips from Billy.com will help you save money on moving supplies and possibly get you some free moving boxes. Looking for moving services should never feel like a headache. Billy.com is here to help make the moving process so much simpler. If you need free estimates on other services, such as hiring a handyman or getting pest control, we are always here to help you save time and money.