Updated: January 09, 2024
Any move is expensive, especially moving to Boston. On average, buying all the boxes can cost from $50 to $200, depending on the size of your home. And you can save all that money if you get the boxes for free!
This guide will show you exactly how to find free moving boxes in Boston, which will help you save money and at the same time keep organized. With tips on Boston, eco-friendly solutions, and practical recommendations, you'll be ready to move without going broke.
Where to Find Free Moving Boxes in Boston
Do you think it's hard to find free moving boxes in Boston? It's not like that! It's easier than you think and will take up quite a bit of your time. The main thing is to know where to look. A detailed guide is provided below. And we've also included practical tips. In addition, we have provided examples related to Boston!
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1. Local Facebook Groups, Craigslist, and Freecycle
The easiest and most convenient way to find free moving boxes in Boston is to use the online community platforms. These options will connect you with people in your area. People often leave ads here after moving, where they give away their packing materials for free. Or you can leave your ad and then people will find you on their own. It usually doesn't take long in Boston, because moving here is very frequent.
- Facebook:
- Facebook Marketplace: Search for “free moving boxes” using Marketplace’s filter for free items. Watch the ads and react quickly. Usually, such proposals find many interested parties.
- Search for Groups: Join hyperlocal groups. For example, ”Buy Nothing Boston". Or join groups focused on residents of specific areas and leave an ad there.
- How to Post Effectively:
- Be polite and clear: Say “Hi neighbors! I’m moving soon. I am looking for free moving boxes of any size. I can pick up at [your neighborhood]! Thanks so much!”
- Respond fast to comments or messages. Free items go fast.
π‘ Pro Tip: Look for keywords like “moving boxes” in group posts to find recent offers.
- Craigslist:
- Explore “Free” Section: Click on Craigslist “Free” section under “For Sale.” Search for “moving boxes.”
- Post a Wanted Ad:
- Sample: “Seeking free moving boxes in Boston. I am thrilled to pick up anywhere within the city. Thanks in advance!”
π‘ Pro Tip: Review listings early in morning or post weekends. This is when people commonly unpack.
- Freecycle Boston:
- Start by Joining and Searching: Sign up on Freecycle.org and join Boston Freecycle group.
- Post Your Needs: Think of your needs. For example request for sturdy moving boxes for future move. It must be clean ones. Specify can be picked up all over Boston!
π‘ Pro Tip: You may need to list something to give before requesting an item. So prepare a small item to share.
- Facebook:
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2. Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
Supermarkets stand as an incredibly dependable source for moving boxes on the cheap. Mostly what happens is that stores receive shipments daily. This leaves behind the sturdy flexible boxes in top-notch condition. It's not unusual to ask the store for extra boxes.
- Who are you asking? You should speak with store manager or any employee stocking department. They can often save good boxes if you ask them in right way.
- When should you visit or make a call: The best time to visit or call is around mid-morning (10-11 AM). By then shelves have been restocked. Yet the boxes are still there before being discarded or recycled.
π‘ Pro Tip: Check out for produce boxes. And remember cereal or dry goods boxes. They are usually clean and lightweight, good for packing. Avoid boxes with moisture or food residue.
Boston supermarket chains to check are below:
- Star Market (Boston has various locations);
- Market Basket (e.g., Somerville, Chelsea);
- Stop & Shop (found widely);
- Whole Foods (need to ask at customer service desks if there are leftover boxes).
π‘ Pro Tip: Check nearest grocery stores or supermarkets. A short call can save time and confirm availability.
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3. Libraries, Bookstores, and Coffee Shops
Libraries, bookstores, and coffee shops serve as excellent sources. They provide clean, durable boxes. Often these are remaining from shipments of books or supplies. Boxes are typically smaller. They are strong and perfect for protecting fragile or heavy items.
- Libraries:
- The Boston Public Library can be of help (Main Branch, at 700 Boylston St): Don't forget to ask at the administrative desk. Maybe unused boxes are there from recent deliveries. Try online chat assistance (Monday through Friday from 11 am to 1 pm).
- And don’t forget about Local Branch Libraries. Smaller neighborhood libraries - like the Jamaica Plain Branch or Brighton Branch often receive regular shipments. Make sure to call ahead to ask about it.
- Bookstores:
- Consider the Harvard Book Store in Cambridge. This independent bookstore often has leftover boxes. These are from inventory shipments. Phone: (617) 661-1515
- And do not forget about the Brookline Booksmith in Brookline. A simple call or visit can get you unused boxes after the deliveries. Phone: (617) 566-6660.
- Moreover, there are Barnes & Noble in Boston and the area. These large retail bookstores often throw out shipment boxes in perfect condition.
- Coffee Shops:
- Independent coffee shops in neighborhoods do make a difference. You can often get supplies in small to medium boxes from coffee shops. An early visit in the morning can often help answer your queries.
- Not just independent shops, large chains like Dunkin' and Starbucks also have their advantages. With frequent deliveries, they often leave behind clean stackable boxes.
π‘ Pro Tip: Not all coffee shops do this. But it's always a good idea to check (just make a quick call). The effort may pay off!
- Libraries:
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4. Community Centers and Churches
Local community centers and churches often get donations. They receive supplies. Sometimes shipments arrive in sturdy boxes, this is how to find them:
- Community Centers:
- Curtis Hall Community Center (Jamaica Plain): The center is a hub for community activities. The center often receives shipments. They come in durable boxes. Phone: (617) 635-5193.
- Boston Center for Youth & Families (Multiple Locations): Many of these centers host donation drives. They receive large shipments. Call to ask about availability. Phone: (617) 635-4920.
- Churches:
- Churches in neighborhoods like Old South Church (Copley Square) and Saint Cecilia Parish (Back Bay), manage food drives. Donation programs are also held often. As a result, plenty of boxes are left behind.
π‘ Pro Tip: Look for local community events or donation drives—these often result in leftover boxes that are free for the taking.
- Community Centers:
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5. Seasonal Opportunities: College Move-In/Out Days
Boston's vibrant student population generates an unprecedented chance to find gratis move boxes at certain times of the year.
- Late August/Early September: During the move-in period, neighborhoods close to universities (e.g., Allston, Fenway) transform into hotspots for abandoned move boxes. Give sidewalks and curbside areas a good check.
- May (Move-Out Season): Students leaving dorms or apartments keep boxes outside for pickup. Explore sites near big complexes such as Symphony Court Apartments or Harvard dormitories.
- Best Locations:
- Allston/Brighton: Streets near Harvard Ave and Commonwealth Ave.
- Fenway/Kenmore: Surrounding dormitories and apartment complexes near Peterborough Street.
π‘ Pro Tip: Spend your mornings or evenings in these areas, where the cleanest and most appropriate boxes are likely to be found.
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6. Recycling Centers
Recycling stations can also be a fantastic source for boxes in Boston. Even though many boxes might already be broken down, in these centers you can often find clean ones that are ready for reuse.
- City of Boston Recycling Drop-Off Center can be a good spot.
- Address: 516 E 2nd St, Boston, MA 02127.
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 3 PM. Make sure to be there early.
- Phone: (617) 230-9583.
- Casella Waste Systems is another option.
- Address: 24 Bunker Hill Industrial Park, Boston, MA 02129
- Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM, Monday–Friday.
- Phone: (617) 603-9003.
π‘ Pro Tip: Remember to bring packing tape! This can come in handy to reassemble flattened boxes.
- City of Boston Recycling Drop-Off Center can be a good spot.
Step-by-Step Tips for Collecting Boxes
Timing and communication - both are vital things to consider when collecting free moving boxes in Boston. Follow these steps to make the process more efficient:
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Visit Local Stores at the Right Time
Go in the early morning. Specifically between 9 and 11 AM. This timing is perfect for supermarkets and grocery stores. The staff is likely restocking shelves. They also usually discard boxes not long after. If your target is pharmacies and liquor stores, the better time to go is in late afternoon. It's after deliveries have been unpacked. Politely put forth a request to managers or employees. Enquire if they have boxes you can take.
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Ask the Right Way
Maintain politeness. Whether asking in person or over phone maintain respect. Be specific in your request. An example of a good request is, “Hi. I am moving soon. Wondering if you have leftover shipment boxes I could pick up.” If making request over phone, inquire about prime time to visit inquest for unused boxes.
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Engage With Neighbors
Neighbors prove to be useful “resource” for free moving boxes. Post request on building bulletin boards or leave a note in common areas that says "Looking for moving boxes. If you can spare any, please contact me. Thanks!". Don’t forget to ask friends or coworkers. They could have boxes from recent deliveries.
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Use Online Platforms
Utilize platforms like Facebook groups, Craigslist, Freecycle. These platforms make it simple to connect with individuals who offer boxes for free. Post a request that is polite and clear. For example “I need free moving boxes in [Boston neighborhood]. I can pick up!” Such a request is usually quickest way to find necessary boxes.
When using these strategies and starting early, you'll have no trouble collecting the free moving boxes. The process should be without stress.
Additional Ways to Save Money and Reduce Waste
It's possible to have an eco-friendly and budget-conscious move. Several strategies can help. Here are a few:
Return Unused Supplies
Plenty of shops have return policies. Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's. You can return here unused moving items. What sort of items? Boxes tape, or bubble wrap. All of these items need to be in good condition. A suggestion: keep all your receipts. Once the move is over, you can return any excess materials. This is a good way to save money and cut back on wastage. It can also help to reduce unnecessary expenses.
Creative Ways to Reuse Moving Boxes
Instead of discarding your boxes consider reusing them for special needs. Here are a few considerations:
- Storage: Make use of robust boxes. Use them to categorize things in your garage basement or loft.
- Composting: Snip boxes into smaller parts. Put them in your compost heap. They can act as a layer rich in carbon.
- DIY Projects: Convert boxes into playhouses for children, cat beds or dividers for drawers. Creativity in thought extends the life of boxes. It also eliminates the need for new storage items or organization equipment.
Recycle Responsibly in Boston
Boston is a city that supports recycling. Recycling is the most sustainable option if you no longer require boxes. Boston provides a variety of recycling services. Many programs are curbside, some are drop-off.
- Curbside Recycling: Box breakdown - step one. Next, you must remove any tape labels as well. Only then place the boxes in your blue recycling bin. Check Boston's official website. Find collection schedules specific to your neighborhood.
- Drop-Off Centers: They are excellent for larger quantities. Visit City of Boston Recycling Drop-Off Center at 315 Frontage Road. They take in cardboard regularly from Monday to Friday. The hours are from 7:30 AM to 3 PM. And Casella Recycling is also an option. You'll find it at 24 Boston Street. They accept clean and flattened boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: The number of boxes relies on the size of the home. Also, it depends on the belongings. For a one-bedroom apartment, you might need around 20–30 boxes. These should be in various sizes. Homes that are larger will require more boxes, especially if you have a lot of books. Kitchen items and clothing can also require more boxes. It is always a good suggestion to gather a few extras to avoid any shortages right before the move.
Answer: In the absence of an adequate number of boxes, use other items. For example, you could use suitcases or reusable totes. Vacuum bags for clothes will free up a lot of space. Plastic storage bins can also be helpful. Even laundry baskets are a good option. Additionally, drawers from furniture can be very useful. You can repurpose these for transporting belongings. All of these options save money and reduce the need for additional supplies.
Answer: For cheap moving services, Boston offers some options. Do some research on movers on Yelp and Thumbtack. You'll find many local businesses there. We advise you not to choose the first company you like but to get bids from multiple companies and compare their prices. Pay attention to additional costs. We also recommend you to check out Move and Care—this article was written by us, so maybe you are interested in our moving services!
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at
info@move-and-care.com.