Finding free boxes and supplies
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, NextDoor, or BuyNothing are all fantastic resources for anyone looking to buy or get rid of old moving boxes.
Depending on the listing and whether or not you're able to haggle with the seller, you may be able to find a bulk batch of cardboard moving boxes perfect for packing.
We also recommend checking into your local subreddit page (usually "r/your city name here"). There, you can post a request to folks in your area and source boxes that way.
Order free boxes from the United States Postal Service
Did you know you can order free boxes from USPS?
Most of the items listed are smaller boxes and envelopes perfect for smaller or delicate items. And with them already in flat-rate shipping boxes, you can just send them to your new address in the mail.
Check with local businesses
Businesses in your area get shipments and restock the shelves constantly. Before you buy moving boxes, check out some of the shops in your area for freebies.
We're not talking cereal boxes here. Grocery stores go through lots and lots of cardboard boxes every day. If you simply ask someone stocking the shelves or the checkout, chances are good you can have your pick of free moving boxes in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Furniture often comes packed in large boxes. Most of those will get thrown away.
Go to the furniture store and ask if they have any old boxes lying around. They may also have some packing supplies on hand, like bubble wrap, wrapping paper, or styrofoam, that they’re willing to give to you.
Most stores will be happy to set the items aside for you, so call or visit in person to ask.
Wineries and liquor stores
Another option is to look at wineries or liquor stores. Bottles often come well-packed in cardboard boxes with packing materials inside, so you may be able to walk away from your visit to a local winery or liquor store with dozens of boxes if you come on the right day. Call ahead, and the manager or owner may be willing to set boxes aside for you.
Costco, Best Buy, Home Depot, you name it and they likely have extra boxes to spare. With all that merchandise for sale, the shelves are constantly being stocked, restocked, and rearranged. Like with any store, it's best to call ahead to ask about extra cardboard boxes, but there's no end in supply at these stores.
Those bestsellers don't just appear on the shelves. Your local bookstore employees also have to pack and unpack lots of books into moving boxes. Before you spend money on boxes, give your local bookstore a visit and ask if they have any boxes to spare.