Published: June 01, 2025

Where to Find Free or Cheap Packing Supplies

Moving can be an exciting new chapter, but the costs can add up quickly, especially when it comes to packing supplies. Boxes, tape, packing paper, and protective wrap might seem like minor expenses, but they can quickly stretch your budget. The good news? There are many places where you can find free or low-cost packing supplies if you know where to look.

Start With Local Retailers

Local businesses often have extra boxes from regular deliveries and are usually happy to give them away. Check with nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, liquor stores, and big box retailers. Store managers typically prefer giving boxes to someone who can use them instead of breaking them down for recycling. Liquor store boxes are especially good for packing fragile items because they’re sturdy and often include dividers. Bookstores also tend to have strong boxes made to hold heavy items like books and electronics, making them great for moving.

Search Online Marketplaces and Community Forums

Online platforms are great sources for free packing materials. Check Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Freecycle, OfferUp, and local Buy Nothing groups. You’ll often find listings from people who have just moved and want to give away their used boxes and supplies. Search using phrases like “free moving boxes near me,” “packing supplies,” or “free packing materials” to find what’s available nearby. Be sure to act quickly—these items tend to go fast during the busy moving season.

Reach Out to Offices and Schools

Many offices and schools regularly receive large shipments of supplies and equipment, which means they often have clean, empty boxes they don’t need. Try contacting local schools or office buildings to see if they’re willing to give away some of their extra boxes. Administrative staff usually appreciate having someone take the boxes off their hands instead of having to break them down for recycling.

Check With Recycling Centers

Many recycling centers accept cardboard boxes in good condition and may allow residents to pick them up. Give your local facility a call and ask about their policy. If allowed, it can be a treasure trove for moving boxes in various sizes. Make sure to check for clean and sturdy boxes that haven’t been damaged by water or chemicals.

Ask Around Your Personal Network

Never underestimate the power of word of mouth. Post on your social media or group chats asking friends, coworkers, or neighbors if they have moving boxes or supplies to spare. Someone in your network has likely moved recently or received large deliveries and may be glad to pass along what they no longer need. If they don’t have anything right now, they may be able to collect materials for you over the next few weeks.

Stop by Apartment Complexes in Your Area

Apartment complexes can be hot spots for free moving supplies. Residents are constantly moving in and out, which means plenty of used boxes get discarded. Visit nearby apartment buildings and ask the leasing office if they have any boxes left over from recent move-ins. Some even designate a recycling area where tenants leave their packing materials for others to reuse.

Use What You Already Own

You don’t have to rely solely on traditional boxes and bubble wrap. Think outside the box—literally. You likely already have plenty of helpful items for packing: suitcases, storage totes, laundry bins, and reusable shopping bags. Instead of buying bubble wrap, use old towels, blankets, or clothing to wrap fragile items. This approach saves money and makes your move more sustainable. 

Be Mindful of Box Quality

Even when hunting for free boxes, don’t compromise on quality. Avoid boxes that are damp, torn, or have held perishable items. Prioritize clean, sturdy boxes that will hold up through transport. Remember, a damaged box can lead to damaged belongings. Investing a little time in checking box integrity can save you a lot of hassle and potential damage to your items.

Finding free or affordable packing supplies for your moving or storage needs doesn’t have to be a struggle. From local retailers and recycling centers to online communities and apartment complexes, there are resources all around you. With a little planning and creativity, you can stretch your moving budget while keeping your relocation organized and eco-friendly.

Looking for a reliable way to move or store your belongings? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Connecticut or call (860) 846-3561.