The 8 best places to find free cardboard moving boxes!
Where to get free cardboard boxes for moving
Last updated: December 2025
Between stamp duty, estate agent fees, legal fees and removal van hire, moving house is unquestionably expensive. There is at least one small way in which you can save a bit of cash, though. Rather than hiring a full removals service (which includes boxes and packaging material) you could box everything up yourself into free cardboard boxes for moving day! But where can you get boxes for moving house..?
1. Embrace the power of social media
Surely someone on your social media accounts has recently moved house, or knows someone who has? Cardboard boxes take up a lot of room even when folded flat, and someone who’s recently moved will be only too glad to get them off their hands!
2. Head to Freecycle
If you don’t know anyone who’s moved recently, find a stranger who has via Freecycle. It’s worth checking that the boxes are in good enough condition, most cardboard boxes won’t manage more than a couple of house moves, so check how often they’ve been used before you arrange to collect your free cardboard boxes.
3. Ask your local supermarket for free cardboard boxes
Supermarket stock, especially fresh produce, is delivered to stores in cardboard boxes. Ask your local supermarket if they have any large cardboard boxes for you to use. If you take their boxes, they have less to dispose of, so it's win-win!
4. Check local discount shops
If you have a discount store near you, for example, a B&M or Home Bargains, call in and ask if they have any boxes. They sell in bulk and should have plenty of cardboard boxes for you to take.
5. Ask your local print shop
Printers have reams and reams of paper delivered, all packaged in large, strong cardboard boxes. Give your local shop a ring and ask if you can have some — it will reduce their waste disposal bill, too!
6. Ask your local school
Schools go through lots of paper, and lots of other stationery supplies; they also take delivery of large amounts of food and even furniture. Give them a ring and ask if they have any boxes you could use.
7. Check out fast food restaurants
McDonald's, KFC, and Burger King receive stock delivered in large, sturdy boxes, so it’s worth a trip to ask. It’s also a good excuse for getting a milkshake whilst you’re out.
8. Try your local recycling centre
This is where most cardboard boxes end up if they’re not re-used. Many are flattened down but can easily be returned to their original shape and strengthened with packaging tape. Just be careful to choose boxes that are clean and dry.
Purchase options for moving boxes......
With a bit of searching, you should be able to source enough cardboard boxes for moving house, free of charge. If you’re in a hurry, though, or if you’re struggling to find anything locally, we sell boxes and other packaging materials at our self-storage stores.
When you’re done with your boxes, remember to put them on Freecycle or on your social media to let others know that they’re available!
When collecting boxes early, some people also consider whether moving house storage could help reduce pressure during a house move.
FAQs about free cardboard boxes
Where can I find free moving boxes?
Try social media, Freecycle, supermarkets, discount shops, print shops, schools, fast food restaurants and your local recycling centre.
Are free boxes safe for my items?
Yes, as long as they’re clean, dry and sturdy. Avoid damp or food-stained boxes and always tape the bottoms and corners for extra strength.
What size boxes should I use?
Use small boxes for heavy items like books, medium boxes for kitchenware, and large boxes for lighter items like bedding or clothing.
When’s the best time to ask stores for boxes?
Early mornings or late evenings when restocking happens. Midweek can also be quieter and more productive.
What should I do with boxes after moving?
Reuse them, list them on Freecycle or local community groups, or recycle them if they’re no longer usable.
