Where To Find Free Packing Boxes in 2025?

Moving or shipping something soon? You might be dreading the cost of boxes. After all, why spend money on something you’ll use once and toss aside? The good news is that you don’t have to.

Free packing boxes are everywhere if you know where to look. The trick is knowing the right places to check and asking the right way. Let’s get started.

Best Places to Get Packing/Moving Boxes For Free (Or At Cheap Rates!)

Not all boxes are created equal. Some are too flimsy, others are the wrong size, and a few might even fall apart before you’re done packing. Whether you’re moving, shipping, or just decluttering, here are the best places to score packing boxes for free (or at a low cost).

Craigslist 

Craigslist is a goldmine for free stuff if you know where to look. Head to the “Free” section under “For Sale,” and you’ll often find people giving away moving boxes after a recent move. Since listings are posted in real-time, check back frequently to snag the best deals before they’re gone.

You can also post your own ad asking for free boxes. Many people don’t bother listing them but are happy to give them away if someone asks. 

U-Haul Box Exchange 

It has a Box Exchange platform where people give away used moving boxes for free. Just enter your location and search for “free boxes” to find listings near you. Most of the time, these are from people who have recently moved and need to offload their extra boxes fast.

You can also post a request if you don’t see what you need. Since it’s a dedicated moving community, the chances of finding the right-sized boxes are much higher than random online marketplaces.

Facebook Marketplace 

Facebook Marketplace isn’t just for buying and selling, it’s also a great place to find free moving boxes from locals who no longer need them. Simply search for “free boxes” and filter by location to find listings near you.

Since posts update frequently, check back often or set up alerts to get notified when new listings pop up. You can also post a “Wanted” ad.

The Freecycle Network 

If you prefer an eco-friendly way to find free moving boxes, The Freecycle Network is worth checking out. This non-profit platform connects people who want to give away items instead of tossing them into landfills.

Sign up for free, join your local group, and either search for available boxes or post a request. Since Freecycle is all about reuse, people often list packing materials like boxes, bubble wrap, and paper.

Nextdoor.com

This neighborhood-based platform connects locals for everything from community news to free giveaways including moving boxes.

Head to the “Classifieds” section to see if anyone nearby is offering free boxes. If nothing is listed, post a request, many people have extra boxes but don’t think to list them. Since it’s a neighborhood-focused site, responses are often quick, and pickups are easy. 

OfferUp 

OfferUp is a mobile marketplace where people buy, sell, and give away items—including moving boxes. Just type “free boxes” in the search bar to find local listings from people looking to offload extra packing supplies.

Since OfferUp is app-based, you can set up notifications for new listings and message sellers directly to arrange a pickup. 

Many users just want boxes gone quickly, so you might even score a whole bundle in one go. It’s an easy, hassle-free way to find sturdy moving boxes without spending a dime.

Large Retailers Such as Costco 

Big-box stores like Costco, Walmart, Target, and Home Depot receive massive shipments daily, which means they constantly have sturdy, high-quality boxes to spare. Visit during restocking hours, employees will often have empty boxes ready to discard.

Another smart move? 

Call ahead and ask when they’ll have extra boxes available. Most stores are happy to give them away, saving you the hassle of searching. Don’t forget smaller retailers like dollar stores, shoe stores, and sporting goods shops also have plenty of leftover boxes up for grabs!

Grocery Stores 

Grocery stores go through tons of boxes every week, especially for produce, dry goods, and beverages. Many of these boxes are sturdy and reinforced to handle heavy loads, making them perfect for moving.

Apple and banana boxes are great for fragile items since they have built-in handles and strong bases. Call ahead and request them to be set aside, so you don’t miss out!

Bookstores 

Bookstores (both big chains and local shops) are a goldmine for sturdy, high-quality boxes designed to hold heavy loads. Since books are naturally dense, the boxes used to transport them are stronger and more durable than standard shipping boxes.

Looking for smaller, easy-to-carry boxes? College and university bookstores are another great source, especially after textbook shipments. 

Pharmacies 

Pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid receive frequent shipments, meaning they always have plenty of boxes to spare. Since these boxes are often used for medicine, personal care items, and household goods, they tend to be clean, sturdy, and easy to carry.

Instead of rummaging through dumpsters, ask an employee or manager when their next shipment arrives. Many stores will set boxes aside for you if you call ahead. Timing it right means you can pick up flattened, ready-to-use boxes without the hassle of digging through discarded ones.

Surgery Centers or Hospitals 

Hospitals and surgery centers might not be the first places that come to mind for moving boxes, but they’re actually a hidden gem. These facilities receive frequent shipments of sterile medical supplies, meaning their discarded boxes are clean, sturdy, and often in great condition. Unlike grocery stores, there’s no risk of food residue or spills. 

Hobby or Art Stores

Art and craft stores like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann, and Utrecht receive frequent shipments of supplies, which means they have boxes of all sizes up for grabs. Whether you need large boxes for bulkier items or smaller ones for fragile pieces, these stores are a great place to check.

Offices 

Don’t forget to check your own workplace when hunting for moving boxes. Offices are full of paper boxes, file storage containers, and shipping boxes, all of which are perfect for packing up your items.

Apartment Complexes 

Apartment complexes are ideal spots for finding free moving boxes, especially with all the people constantly moving in and out. Recycling bins are often filled with discarded boxes, just waiting for someone to take them, though always ask for permission first.

College Dorms 

If you’re moving around the start or end of the school year, college dorms are a goldmine for free moving boxes. With students constantly moving in and out, there’s no shortage of large and small boxes being discarded.

Check residence halls, recycling bins, or common areas where students leave unwanted boxes. You can also ask dorm staff or post in student forums to see if anyone has extra. 

Schools and Libraries 

Schools and libraries are great sources for sturdy moving boxes, especially at the start of the school year when they receive shipments of books and supplies. Elementary, middle, and high schools often have extra boxes lying around.

Libraries, on the other hand, get frequent book deliveries, meaning their boxes are strong and durable. A quick visit or phone call could land you exactly what you need without spending a dime.

Recycling Drop-off Points 

Recycling drop-off locations can be a goldmine for free moving boxes. These sites collect flattened cardboard, and if you get there at the right time, you might find sturdy, reusable boxes in great condition.

Most cities have multiple drop-off points, and a quick visit could save you money while keeping perfectly good boxes out of the landfill. Just make sure to check for clean, dry boxes that haven’t been damaged. 

Liquor Stores 

Your local liquor store could be a hidden gem for free moving boxes. These stores receive frequent shipments, meaning they often have sturdy, compact boxes ready for the taking. Since liquor bottles are heavy and fragile, these boxes are designed to be extra durable, making them perfect for packing books, glassware, and other delicate items.

Many liquor boxes also come with built-in dividers, which can help protect fragile belongings. Just ask the manager when they receive shipments, and they’ll likely be happy to set some aside for you. 

Restaurants and Coffee Shops 

Your favorite coffee shop or restaurant could be a great place to score free moving boxes. Coffee shops, especially big chains like Starbucks, receive frequent shipments of coffee beans, supplies, and merchandise, meaning they often have small, sturdy boxes perfect for packing fragile or compact items.

Auto Shops 

Auto repair shops, oil change centers, and car parts stores get regular shipments of everything from engine parts to tires, meaning they often have large, durable boxes that are perfect for moving.

Drop by your local auto shop or parts store and ask if they have any extra boxes from their latest shipment. Many shops break down boxes for recycling, so if you ask nicely, they might be happy to let you take a few off their hands!

Other Ways To Get Moving Boxes Easily 

There are plenty of other creative ways to find them! Here are some additional ways to score moving boxes quickly and easily!

Ask a Friend/Family Member Who Just Moved 

One of the easiest ways to find free moving boxes is by reaching out to friends and family members who’ve recently moved. People who’ve just completed a move likely have extra boxes lying around, and they’re often eager to get rid of them. Simply ask around, or post on your social media accounts to spread the word.

Check In The Neighborhood For Someone Who Just Moved 

Take a stroll around your neighborhood and keep an eye out for boxes left at the curb; a sign that someone has recently moved in. If you see boxes ready for recycling, don’t hesitate to ask if you can take them. Alternatively, you could ask neighbors who recently moved in if they have any leftover boxes they need to get rid of. Most people will be happy to give them away, saving you time and effort in your search for moving supplies!

Keep an Eye Out For Yard/Garage Sales 

Yard and garage sales are a goldmine for moving boxes. Sellers often have extra boxes from items they’ve been selling, and they’re usually eager to get rid of them. If you visit toward the end of the sale, you’re in luck, many sellers will be more than happy to give them away for free. 

Reuse The Boxes You Receive In Mail 

If you’re ordering packages online, now’s the perfect time to start saving those boxes! Amazon, USPS, and other delivery services send their items in sturdy boxes that are great for moving. Instead of recycling them, stash them away for your big move. With a little foresight, you’ll have a solid collection of boxes ready when it’s time to pack up. 

Rent Moving Boxes At Cheap Rates

If you prefer not to deal with cardboard boxes, renting plastic moving boxes is a great alternative! Companies like U-Haul, Rent a Green Box, and Bungo Box offer sturdy, reusable plastic containers for your move. Not only are they more durable, but they also help reduce waste. You can rent them for a reasonable rate and even get a delivery service to your door. 

How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?

Moving boxes can vary widely in price depending on size and type. Small boxes typically cost around $1 each, while larger sizes can range from $2 to $3.75 for extra-large options. Specialty boxes, like wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or mirror boxes, come at a premium. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $20 for these, depending on the item’s size and fragility.

Packing supplies can also add up. For instance, a pack of packing paper averages around $9, while glass-packing kits may cost anywhere from $10 to $15. Kitchen kits, designed for protecting your delicate items like glasses and dishes, generally cost around $10-$12.

For those looking for a more convenient option, moving kits can be a good choice. A moving kit for a one-bedroom apartment typically costs $69-$90 and includes 14-29 boxes, along with additional supplies like tape and markers. For a two-bedroom home, the cost jumps to $178-$197, including 55-60 boxes. Larger kits for a four-bedroom house range from $311-$404, providing up to 119 boxes and other essentials like bubble wrap and tape.

How To Decide How Many Boxes Will You Need?

The number of moving boxes you’ll need depends on a few factors like the size of your home, how many rooms you’re packing up, and your packing style. On average, a studio apartment might require around $97 worth of boxes, while a one-bedroom home may need about $124 worth. For a three-bedroom house, you’re looking at closer to $178 worth of boxes.

If you want a more precise estimate, you can use a packing calculator, which takes into account the number of bedrooms, the number of people you’re moving, and other important details to give you a rough idea of how many boxes to gather.

It’s also key to keep weight in mind. Standard moving boxes can hold between 30-150 pounds, depending on their size and whether they’re single or double-walled. However, overpacking boxes can lead to tears or breaks, so be mindful of their weight and size when packing fragile or heavy items.

Remember: The more you can consolidate your items or use smaller boxes for heavier items, the fewer boxes you’ll need overall!

Important Considerations When Looking For Moving Boxes 

• Always ask for permission before taking boxes from a store or office. It’s essential to be respectful and check if they even have boxes available. 
• Calling ahead can save you a lot of time and hassle.
• Next, inspect the condition of the boxes. Only use boxes that are sturdy and intact. Boxes that are torn, wet, or warped can break during your move, damaging your belongings. 
• Avoid using dirty or smelly boxes as well, leaky boxes or those with food stains can leave your items smelling unpleasant, which no one wants!
• Another great tip is to advertise your search. Use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor to let your community know you’re looking for moving boxes.
• Lastly, if you’re collecting boxes from strangers, always prioritize safety. 

In a Nutshell 

Finding free moving boxes doesn’t have to be a stressful part of your move. With a bit of creativity and some effort, you can gather all the boxes you need without breaking the bank. Whether you’re asking local businesses, checking in with friends and family, or even looking online, there are plenty of resources at your disposal. Just be sure to follow some simple safety and condition guidelines to ensure your boxes are up to the task. 

FAQs 

Where to find free packing boxes near me?
You can find free packing boxes at local stores, recycling centers, libraries, liquor stores, and even by asking friends or family who have recently moved. Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Nextdoor are also great places to ask for free boxes.

Where can I get large moving boxes for free?
Large moving boxes can often be found at big-box retailers like Walmart or Costco, liquor stores, or local grocery stores. You can also check with offices, schools, or even apartment complexes for large boxes.

Does USPS offer free packing boxes?
Yes, USPS provides free shipping boxes, but they are only for their Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services. You can order them online through their website or pick them up at USPS locations.

Where to get boxes for moving at cheap rates?
You can find cheap moving boxes at local retailers, U-Haul, or online marketplaces like Amazon. Renting plastic moving boxes from companies like Rent A Green Box or Bungo Box is also a cost-effective option.

Does UPS give free packing boxes?
UPS does not offer free packing boxes. However, they do sell various sizes of moving boxes and other shipping supplies in their stores.

Does CVS give free boxes?
CVS may have free boxes available, but it’s best to ask a store manager. Pharmacies like CVS receive regular shipments, and sometimes they’re willing to give away boxes that are in good condition.

Does Walmart still give free boxes?
Yes, Walmart still gives away free boxes, especially after restocks. You can ask employees if they have extra boxes, or check behind the store for unused ones. Just make sure to call ahead to confirm availability.

Does Walgreens give free boxes?
Walgreens often has free boxes available, especially from their regular shipments. Be sure to ask the store manager for permission to pick them up, and call ahead to check if they have boxes available.