Moving house: how to get packing boxes for cheap (or free!)
Moving house or relocating office? Here's how to save money by finding free or cheap packing boxes.
If you're moving house or relocating your office, you've probably already realised just how much there is to organise. And if you've started looking into packing supplies, you'll have likely noticed something else: boxes aren't cheap.
But the good news is that you don't need to spend a fortune. With some forward planning and a bit of gumption, you can get hold of most of your moving boxes for free. (Or, at least, for a fraction of the price you'll find online.)
We're here to show you how to get your hands on cheap or free packing boxes and keep more money in your bank account.
1. Ask your local shops and takeaways
One of the easiest ways to find free boxes is to ask for them at your local shops.
Supermarkets, off-licences, and takeaways receive deliveries regularly. These deliveries often arrive in sturdy cardboard boxes, which usually end up in the recycling at the end of the day.
Mornings are usually your best bet, before the shops get too busy. And remember: a friendly word with the staff can go a long way.
Keep your eyes peeled for banana boxes, as they can usually take a heavy load and come with lids. Bottle boxes are typically sturdy, too, and are perfect for books and kitchenware.
It never hurts to buy something while you're there as a thank you. Plus, supporting your local businesses is a good habit to get into.
2. Save boxes from your own deliveries
Always got a delivery on the way? If you're planning a move, start saving your own delivery boxes as soon as you can. Those takeaway boxes and Amazon orders soon add up. Plus, it will free up space in your recycling bin.
If you're worried about them taking up too much space in your house, keep the boxes flat until you need them and stash them away. And don't sleep on the smaller boxes – keep them for protecting fragile items or patching up odds and ends.
Get your family and friends in on it, too. They'll probably be grateful for you taking them off their hands.
3. Check the neighbourhood recycling – politely!
Now, we're not suggesting you go rustling around in your neighbours' bins. However, if you spot some top-tier cardboard boxes next to someone's recycling, there's no harm in knocking on the door and asking if you can have them.
People often have a clear-out after Christmas or a big online shopping spree – and they'll likely be glad to see the boxes go to good use.
Just make sure you ask. No one likes a creepy cardboard thief!
4. Look on Facebook Marketplace and local community groups
You'd be amazed how many people give away free packing boxes on Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle, and community apps like Nextdoor.
Simply search for terms like 'moving boxes', 'free boxes' or 'packing materials'. Some people will let you have them for free if you offer to pick them up, while others might ask for a small amount of cash.
If you have a car or a van, you can often pick up a decent haul – from multiple people – in one trip. If you're lucky, they'll have some bubble wrap and packing paper knocking around, too.
5. Ask larger retailers and warehouses
Still not got enough boxes? It's time to bring out the big guns. Larger retailers often have an endless supply of sturdy cardboard boxes. Check out:
- DIY stores like B&Q and Wickes
- Electrical shops like Currys
- Furniture stores like IKEA and DFS
Boxes for transporting flat-pack furniture or appliances tend to be large and strong – perfect for your bulky or awkward items.
Again, it's best to visit early in the day – and remember to ask politely.
6. Think twice before buying online
If pickings are scarce and you really do need to buy some moving boxes, it can be tempting to order them from Amazon or eBay. But it's well worth shopping around first. Many of these box bundles are overpriced for what you get.
You'll probably be better off buying from your local packaging suppliers. They are often much cheaper, and you can avoid hefty delivery charges.
If you do splash out, choose double-walled boxes. They're far stronger and less likely to fall apart when you're shifting your prized possessions.
7. Check at work (if you can)
Offices tend to get through loads of cardboard, from printer paper boxes to office supply deliveries. If you work in an office, ask around to see if you can take a few boxes home. You'll be helping clear out the office clutter and saving yourself some cash.
8. Consider renting plastic crates
For a sturdier option, reusable and stackable plastic moving crates are your best bet.
You can buy them upfront if you think you may use them again (or sell them after the move). Or you can hire them from rental companies, many of which will deliver and collect the crates for you.
Whichever route you take, plastic crates are going to cost you significantly more than cardboard boxes. But what they do give you in return is peace of mind that your possessions will stay nice and dry, whatever the weather.
Boxes sorted? Now you just need a van
Once you've got your packing materials ready for action, it's time to think about the move itself.
Whether you need a small van for a few boxes or a larger vehicle to pack up your entire home, we've got a van to suit you here at MVH Rental. With competitive prices and flexible hire options, we make moving simple and stress-free for all our customers in the North East.
For a van you can count on, browse our Newcastle van rentals or give our friendly, knowledgeable staff a call on (0191) 4888 700.
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