

Moving to a new neighborhood requires preparation, planning, and packing. You’ll need to collect enough boxes to pack your clothes, home goods, and electronics for a single trip. You may wonder, “What is the cheapest way to get moving boxes?”
Our bulk pickup specialists explain how to determine how many boxes you need and cost-efficient ways to get boxes before your next move.
It can be challenging to find multiple “one-size-fits-all” moving boxes when planning a big move. A little research into affordable and accessible alternatives goes a long way. You may need to get creative during your search by collecting new and used boxes from several locations.
Cardboard boxes can range anywhere from $2 a box to $10, depending on the type you choose. Retailers like Move.org offer special deals for bulk orders and banker boxes. These may cost anywhere from $30 to $65 per order.
Is this your first time moving? It’s not a bad idea to check online forums for advice on where to find moving boxes in your local area. Websites like Craigslist and Reddit can point you in the right direction.
Try to keep product boxes from items you buy at the store between now and your move-out date. Start a collection in your closet or basement. This way, you will have a supply nearby when it’s time to go.
Amazon is a practical resource for finding affordable boxes when you need to move, and you can order them directly through the Amazon application or website for delivery to your home. You may be able to ship new or used boxes overnight with Amazon Prime. If you need moving boxes or reusable moving totes and don’t have time to find and pick up boxes nearby, Amazon delivery can be a great option.
Major home retailers — like Lowe’s or Home Depot — can also yield promising results. These big box stores are worth exploring if you need large or unconventional packaging for specific household items.

The cheapest way to get moving boxes is to get them for free from friends, neighbors, and businesses.
Don’t assume you need to burn a hole in your wallet for durable cardboard moving boxes. The cheapest way to get moving boxes could be to ask someone who already has some. Free moving boxes may be available within a five-mile radius if you are savvy during your search. For example, ask friends or family if they have any moving boxes they can spare.
Some people also leave boxes near public recycling bins and behind retail stores, if you don’t mind driving around to find them.
Do you work in an office or restaurant? Ask your manager if you can use any spare boxes lying around. Schools, pharmacies, and liquor stores also pile up cardboard boxes from orders and may be willing to give them to you for free.
Finding cheap moving boxes doesn’t need to be a hassle. Make a list of all the items you need to pack before you shop to ensure that you purchase the right moving boxes for your items.
Here are a few questions to ask while you create your list:
Answering these questions will help you discover the cheapest way to get moving boxes without wasting time. If you aren’t sure what you need, start by finding some standard cardboard boxes (18x18x24 inches). These supplies will provide enough space for common household items, like kitchenware, clothes, and wall decorations.
Some online retailers and shipping companies offer a free box calculator on their websites. This tool will help you organize your packing list and determine which box sizes you need for your move. An online box calculator can also help you determine how much you should expect to spend on new or used packing supplies.
Give yourself plenty of time to pack your boxes before your scheduled move-out date. You may find that you need more boxes or fewer boxes, even if you use a box calculator.

Used Cardboard Boxes, Inc. is a packing retailer located in Milwaukee. This company offers two-day shipping for all box orders and may be the perfect solution for your next move. Major media outlets like ABC, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal promoted this five-star company for its convenience and reliability.
According to its website, you can order a moving kit for just under $50. Here are just a few options:
Used Cardboard Boxes, Inc. prides itself on its sustainable approach to box shipping and disposal. If you are eco-conscious, you’ll appreciate the zero-waste-to-landfill site for used and defective boxes, which the company claims saves millions of trees during operations.
You may assume the cheapest way to get moving boxes is by reusing old ones.
Used boxes can be helpful for short-distance trips, and you’ll definitely save money since you don’t have to buy new boxes. Still, you should check the quality of each box before you commit. Defective boxes can compromise the integrity of your items inside, so follow these tips:
You can use packing tape and staples to reinforce used boxes if you worry about them splitting open during trips. Remember to keep these boxes away from rain, snow, or heating elements for optimal durability.
Home Depot is a retail chain with nearly 2,000 locations nationwide, making it an accessible option for buying new moving boxes and kits. Consider their box options:
Home Depot also offers glass and fragile-item kits starting at $11.

When planning how many moving boxes you need, review this list of common box types and sizes.
A standard cardboard box is the most common type of container you will come across during your search. Collecting these over time is the cheapest way to get moving boxes. Standard cardboard boxes typically have a brand or shipping label and no additional details on the surface.
Standard boxes can come in small, medium, or large sizes. These containers are excellent for:
Heavy-duty boxes and boxes labeled “FRAGILE” can be challenging to find used. These containers usually have additional reinforcement on the inside. You should also expect surface materials to be more dense compared to standard boxes.
Consequently, heavy-duty boxes are more expensive than softer options on the market. Consider using a heavy-duty box to store:
Heavy-duty boxes generally come in large sizes. Still, you should ask a retailer which options are available before you commit to a purchase. Smaller boxes may be more affordable if you are working with a tight moving budget.
Specialty boxes come in different shapes and sizes and are best for unique items.
Suppose you need to move an expensive collection of wine hundreds of miles across the country. Purchasing specialty wine boxes or crates will ensure that every bottle stays intact during travel.
Specialty boxes usually have interior and exterior packaging features, such as bottle separators, cardboard dividers, and handles. You might even find wood or plastic boxes for high-value items.
Ordering a custom moving box can be the most expensive option. However, certain furniture pieces or electronics may require this solution for the safest transportation. Stand-up lighting fixtures, sculptures, and other high-value, oddly shaped items may require custom-sized boxes.
Most moving professionals recommend using heavy-duty or specialty boxes for items like these. This way, you can avoid expensive fees and slow delivery times.

Make sure you stock up on enough packing supplies to simplify your move, including:
Do you plan to haul over a dozen boxes to your new home? Purchase several rolls of packing tape and paper to ensure that your items do not shift around during travel.
Amazon sells heavy-duty packing tape starting at $5. You can also order large rolls of styrofoam lining for under $10.
You can avoid spending time putting cardboard boxes together by investing in large storage bins. Use caution because these materials are more expensive than cardboard and may cause damage due to their hard surfaces. However, if you are moving long distances and want to ensure that your items stay secure during transportation, these durable plastic containers may be a good choice.
U-Haul is a nationally trusted moving company that offers rental vehicles, boxes, and packing supplies. Many people rely on them to provide moving boxes on short notice. However, expect at least four-day shipping if you live in high-demand areas, like near college campuses, downtown locations, and major residential areas.
When you need the cheapest way to get moving boxes, U-Haul isn’t a bad place to start. You can expect competitive pricing on all boxes and excellent communication from the team. They may also recommend custom kits, depending on how much you need to transport.
You can even rent a U-Haul pickup truck or van to carry all of your boxes in one trip. All of these options are available when you visit a U-Haul location in person or call over the phone. The website will provide more detailed information about purchasing packing supplies and reserving transportation at affordable rates.
Are you planning a big move in the near future? It may be time to clean your house of old items you no longer need. At Easy Donation Pickup, our team of dedicated drivers will collect your bulk donations at your door.
Simply schedule a pickup online or give us a call. Our team will ensure that you have all the information you need before your driver arrives to pick up your items. Check out our list of accepted donation items.
What is the cheapest way to get moving boxes in your area? Learn more or plan your next bulk item pickup with Easy Donation Pickup today. We are ready to remove unwanted items from your home year-round.