As with any other purchase in life, when it comes to moving
boxes, you will get what you pay for. Though, this doesn't
necessarily mean that you have to purchase the most expensive
packing boxes for sale.
By planning ahead and investigating your options prior to your
move, you can often find durable, reliable, slightly used moving
boxes for free or at a discounted rate.
Where to buy moving boxes
If you want to buy brand-new moving boxes, they are available
for purchase from online retailers or directly through moving
services. Purchasing brand-new cardboard moving boxes is the best
option if you don't want to take the time or risk of gathering used
boxes yourself.
On top of that, many online companies put together packages of
boxes based on the size of your home and the amount of belongings
that you need to pack, simplifying the packing process for you.
Moving box bundles are available for one bedroom, two bedroom
and three to four bedroom sizes. Individual specialty boxes can be
purchased for crystal, garments, books, and wine.
If you want to save money on buying boxes brand-new, consider a
number of online services that will allow you to return your boxes
after use for a partial refund.
As an example, a large box bundle for a 3 to 4 bedroom home will
cost roughly $400 and include 25 tea chest boxes, 45 book and wine
boxes, 1 roll of paper, 3 rolls of tape, a packing knife, and a
marker.
However, when you return the boxes in good condition after your
move, you can receive a refund of up to 40% of the original
purchase price to cut down on your total moving expenses.
Where to find free moving boxes
For many people hoping to save money on relocation, free,
slightly used packing boxes are the best choice by far. Here are
several locations where you can find free boxes for moving:
- Friends and neighbours. Spread the word
to friends, family, and neighbours that you are on the hunt for
free boxes for moving. If you know anyone who has recently moved,
they will likely be happy to get old boxes off their hands and see
them put to good use.
- Check community websites. Community
websites will often advertise free boxes for relocation. This will
give you the opportunity to take advantage of used moving supplies
from people who have recently relocated and want to get rid of
extra boxes.
- Check with retailers nearby. Electronic
stores, furniture stores, grocery stores, and retail stores are
likely to have extra boxes on hand each week after a product
shipment. You can inquire with a manager about free boxes available
or check behind the store by the rubbish bin to see what boxes have
been thrown out.
Before taking just any free box, make sure to test it for
durability and quality. If a box has been sitting in storage for
quite some time, it could have damage from moisture, pests or
rodents.
Top moving tip
How many boxes do you need for your move? The average house will
need:
- 20 book boxes
- 10 tea chest boxes
- 10 half tea chest boxes
- 1 permanent marker
- 1 roll bubble wrap or butcher paper
- 6 rolls packing tape
- 1 packing knife.