Where to buy moving boxes
Moving can be a daunting task, but with the right packing supplies and strategies, it's manageable. Plus, beyond hiring an affordable moving company, there are savings to be had when purchasing supplies. This article covers everything from cheap moving boxes to heavy-duty packing options. We also have more tips for packing a moving box.
Exploring Options for Moving Boxes
Get Supplies from your Moving Company
Some moving companies are a one-stop shop for moving services and box needs. Cool Hand Movers offers reusable moving bins, a more sustainable, sturdier option than cardboard boxes.
2. Buy New Boxes In-store
Most home improvement stores and truck rental outfits are sources for new moving boxes. They offer a variety of sizes and specialty boxes. Shops like Home Depot and even shippers like UPS sell boxes. Look to Reddit and other online forums for threads on who has the best local deals on packing materials. Avoid cheap moving boxes that may end in breakage and collapse.
Pros:
Accessible at most home improvement stores.
Various sizes, including specialty options.
Easy to stack once built.
Cons:
Does not offer protection against moisture and pests.
Must be broken down and bagged for recycling.
Requires transportation to purchase.
Some items may be out of stock.
Must be built and sealed correctly or can cause damage or injury.
3. Get Used Boxes for Moving from Neighbors & Businesses
Getting used moving boxes from neighbors can be a budget-friendly option. Local grocery or liquor stores often give away used boxes from shipments. While this box option can save money, check the boxes for cleanliness and structural integrity.
Pros:
Cost-effective.
Reuse helps the environment.
Cons:
Unknown durability and condition.
Varied box sizes make moving more precarious.
Possible cleanliness concerns.
Must purchase labels separately.
4. Order Boxes Online
Ordering boxes online offers convenience and a wide selection of sizes and types. You can find everything from standard cardboard boxes to specialized options like TV moving boxes and heavy-duty containers. However, it's essential to consider potential shipping costs and the inability to inspect boxes before purchasing.
Cons:
Quality varies widely.
Possible shipping delays.
Additional delivery costs.
Pros:
Wide selection of sizes and types.
Bulk buying options.
Some sites offer eco-friendly choices.
5. Rent Reusable Moving Bins
Reusable moving bins offer a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cardboard boxes. They are sturdy and stackable and eliminate the need for tape and assembly. Their uniform size makes organizing and loading them onto a moving truck much more efficient.
Cons:
Limited availability in some areas.
Need to schedule delivery and pick-up.
Fixed rental period.
Might not be suitable for all item types.
Pros:
Sturdy and stackable for easy transport.
Eco-friendly, reducing waste.
Weather-resistant material.
Rent directly from your movers.
Standard Moving Box Sizes
Understanding box sizes helps in planning your packing strategy.
How to build a cardboard moving box
Moving boxes, large or small, require careful assembly for safe moving.
Start by unfolding the box and shaping it into a square or rectangle.
Secure the bottom flaps with high-quality packing tape, ensuring it covers both the center seam and edges for added strength.
Reinforce the corners and edges with extra tape. The corners are stress points when the box is filled.
Add a label.
Gather packing material to fill empty space.
Packing supplies for your move
Don’t forget the other equipment you’ll need to secure your belongings.
Bubble Wrap: Ideal for cushioning and protecting fragile items.
Green Wrap: An eco-friendly alternative to bubble wrap, Green Wrap offers recyclable protection. Its honeycomb construction provides more stability for fragile items with less material.
Packing Tape: Essential for securely sealing cardboard boxes.
Tape Gun: Streamlines the taping process
Packing Paper: Useful for wrapping items and filling voids in boxes.
Labels: Helps in organizing and identifying contents.
Frequently asked questions about buying moving boxes
Understanding box sizes helps in planning your packing strategy.