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

1. 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.

• Small box

  Typically around 16" x 12" x 12", 1.5 cubic feet. Great for books, CDs, and heavy items.

• Medium box

  Usually 18" x 14" x 12", 3 cubic feet. Ideal for kitchen items and toys.

• Large box

  Often 20" x 20" x 15", 4.5 cubic feet. Suitable for lighter, bulkier items.

• Extra-large box

  Around 23" x 23" x 16", 6 cubic feet. For large, lightweight items like pillows and linens.

• Specialty box

  Specific dimensions vary, designed for TVs, mirrors, and artwork.

• Wardrobe box

  Designed for efficiently transporting clothes, keeping them hung and wrinkle-free.

How to build a cardboard moving box

Moving boxes, large or small, require careful assembly for safe moving.

1. Start by unfolding the box and shaping it into a square or rectangle.

2. Secure the bottom flaps with high-quality packing tape, ensuring it covers both the center seam and edges for added strength.

3. Reinforce the corners and edges with extra tape. The corners are stress points when the box is filled.

4. Add a label.

5. 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.

• Can I have movers provide and pack boxes for me?

  Yes! We offer both full packing and partial packing services. Even if we only handle your move, you can still rent our reusable moving bins. Ordering moving boxes and supplies is easy. Orders include delivery and pick-up.

• What boxes should I use for an office move?

  For an office move, choosing the right boxes is crucial to safely transporting all equipment and documents. Reusable moving bins are heavy-duty boxes ideal for holding files, books, and small office equipment. Using their preaffixed labels makes unpacking easy so you can quickly get back to business. Rent moving crates for a commercial move.

• How much do moving boxes cost?

  Prices vary. Especially cheap moving supplies may indicate they won’t make it through your move.

• Are there other ways to save on my move?

  We have a list of ways to save on your moving costs, and we offer regular discounts on moving services.