Written, Edited and Fact Checked by Taras Kim
Updated: December 13, 2024
The move is going to run into a lot of money. From hiring movers to purchasing materials. That's we're not even talking about buying real estate/putting down rent, buying new household items, etc. The costs will mount up very quickly. When budgeting for a move, many people overlook packing materials, particularly moving boxes. Buying new boxes can cost anywhere from $1 to even as much as $5 per box or more (depending on its features). For large moves, this can mean spending hundreds of dollars. Don't forget about packing tape, bubble wrap, fillers, etc.
If you're moving to or from Philadelphia, we have good news for you. You don't have to spend a fortune on packing materials. There are plenty of places to find affordable or free moving boxes in Philadelphia.
This guide tells you where you can get free and cheap moving boxes in Philadelphia. It also tells you where you can recycle or donate boxes after your move. With these tips, you can save money and make your move smarter. Let's get started!
Table of Contents
Why Free Moving Boxes Are a Game-Changer
Free moving boxes will obviously cut down on costs and waste, thus you'll still support sustainability in Philadelphia. On average, packing a two-bedroom apartment for a family may require 50 or more muling boxes, together it can cost up to $100. Many people find everything they need at local stores and online exchanges without spending a dime. Some of the things they are also willing to carry in simple bags. What is their bottom line cost for packaging materials? Close to zero.
Pros & Cons: Buying New vs. Sourcing Free Boxes
But maybe you should still buy moving boxes rather than use old ones. A lot depends on the packing of specific items, so we suggest you aim for a hybrid approach.
Why Buy New Moving Boxes
- Uniformity and Quality: New boxes are of the same size and strength. They are easier to stack and carry.
- Convenience: Buying new boxes saves time. You won't have to run around the city. Many Philadelphia stores will have everything ready to buy. Or just place an order.
Why Source Free Moving Boxes
- Cost-Effectiveness: Free boxes can save you $50 to $100 or more, depending on the size of your move.
- Eco-Friendliness: Reusing boxes reduces waste and supports Philadelphia’s recycling efforts.
Whether you buy new boxes or source free ones depends on your priorities. If time and convenience matter most, new boxes may be the better option. If saving money and reducing waste are important, free boxes are the way to go.
Tip: For fragile items and electronics, it is better to buy new moving boxes and pack them well. This will greatly increase the chances of preserving them in transit, especially if we are talking about moving a long distance.
Best Places to Get Free Moving Boxes in Philadelphia
We've selected 14 sources for finding free moving boxes in Philadelphia and categorized them for clarity.
1. Online Platforms
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Facebook Marketplace: Check Facebook Marketplace. There are usually a lot of ads there for free box giveaways. Also look in groups like “Free Your Stuff Philadelphia PENNSYLVANIA”. Many locals give away moving boxes for free after unpacking. Join these groups and post a request to increase your chances.
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Nextdoor: Check Nextdoor. Browse ads in the “Free” category and/or post a message asking for free moving boxes. Residents are often happy to share extra. The chance of free moving boxes is much higher if you live in a neighborhood where people move frequently.
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Craigslist Philly: Visit the “Free Stuff” section and type “moving boxes” into the search bar. Listings update frequently, so check often. Always meet in safe, public locations to pick up boxes.
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U-Haul Box Exchange: Visit U-Haul's dedicated box exchange site. Find posts from Philadelphia residents offering free or cheap moving boxes.
2. Local Stores & Businesses
- Liquor Stores: Liquor stores often receive shipments in sturdy boxes. Often with dividers. This is ideal for glassware or fragile items. Call Wine & Spirits locations in South Philly or Total Wine on 2100 NJ-38 Suite 8A to arrange pickups.
- Grocery Stores: Check Acme Markets (e.g., 1001 South St) and Trader Joe’s (2121 Market St). Managers often save boxes if you call them beforehand. They will gladly give them back. Try to pick up boxes early in the morning when the shelves are first restocked. That way you have a chance to grab a nice, unbroken box.
- Bookstores: Bookstores like Barnes & Noble on 1708 Chestnut St frequently have strong delivery boxes. Call a day in advance to check availability.
- Pharmacies: CVS (e.g., 1826-30 Chestnut St) and Rite Aid (e.g., 704-20 E Passyunk Ave) often discard medium-sized boxes from shipments. Ask staff politely for any extras they’re discarding.
3. Recycling Centers & Drop-Off Points
- Revolution Recovery: This recycling facility (7333 Milnor St) often has reusable cardboard boxes collected from local businesses. Call ahead to confirm.
- Sanitation Convenience Centers: Philadelphia’s centers, like the one at 3033 S 63rd St, collect cardboard for recycling. Visit and inquire about clean, intact boxes before they’re processed.
- Farmer’s Markets: Philadelphia’s farmers' markets, such as Reading Terminal Market, often have extra boxes after deliveries. Visit near closing time to ask vendors about leftovers.
4. Workplaces & Schools
- Offices: Offices regularly receive paper and supply shipments in sturdy boxes. Ask office managers or reception staff about leftover boxes. These are often the perfect size for books and household items.
- Schools and Libraries: Schools like those in the School District of Philadelphia often receive large deliveries of books or supplies. Libraries, including the Free Library of Philadelphia branches, are also good places to inquire about leftover boxes.
These resources will help you collect the free cardboard boxes in Philly you need, all without spending a dime. Philadelphia offers plenty of local options to make your move easier and more affordable.
Where to Buy Affordable Moving Boxes in Philadelphia
But if finding cheap packing supplies in Philadelphia isn't enough for you? Little time or need sturdy, unitized boxes for fragile or heavy items, here are the solutions:
Local Stores
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Located at 1801 Fairmount Ave, this store offers affordable moving supplies, including various box sizes and discounts for bulk purchases. The store is open from 8:00AM - 7:00PM
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Home Depot and Lowe’s:
Home Depot and Lowe’s provide moving boxes ranging from $1.28 to $3.48. They also sell moving kits that bundle boxes with tape and packing paper.
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FedEx Office:
These stores, like FedEx Office at 1500 Market St are ideal for specialty boxes, including wardrobe and electronics boxes. Prices are higher but offer premium quality.
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Local Moving Companies:
Many moving companies also provide packing materials. Not just boxes, but everything else: moving blankets, protective corners, fillers, bubble wrap, etc. In addition, they offer packing services: not only do they provide the materials, but they also pack the goods themselves.
Online Retailers
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Amazon:
Amazon offers bulk deals on moving boxes, such as packs of 20 medium boxes for approximately $30. Fast delivery is available for Prime members.
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Walmart:
Walmart sells affordable moving kits and individual boxes starting at $1.20. Order online or pick up at Philadelphia locations, such as the store on S Columbus Blvd.
Recycling Moving Boxes After Your Move
What's next after you've completed your move? Don't let the boxes go to waste! We've listed ways to recycle, donate, and reuse them in Philadelphia:
Recycling Facilities
- Sanitation Convenience Centers: Locations like 3033 S 63rd St accept cardboard for recycling. Ensure boxes are flattened, tape is removed, and they’re clean and dry before drop-off.
- Revolution Recovery: This facility at 7333 Milnor St accepts used cardboard for recycling. Call ahead to confirm their requirements for drop-offs.
Donation or Resale Options
These are options we're already familiar with, but now you'll leave an ad for free boxes instead of having to search for them!
- Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace: List your boxes in the “Free Stuff” section on Craigslist or post in local Facebook groups like “Philadelphia Buy Nothing.” Many people in your area will be happy to reuse them.
- Nextdoor: Use this app to connect with neighbors and offer your boxes for free. Post in the “For Sale and Free” section to quickly find someone in need.
Sustainability Tips
You can also put the boxes to creative use. There are ways to extend their lives. You can turn boxes into practical containers to keep things around the house, use them for DIY crafts (as decorative organizers, perhaps for children's projects, etc.). Some people use boxes in the garden: as temporary planters.
Tip: Don't throw away original boxes from electronics or fragile items. They are often already prepared for transportation and can help you a lot the next time you move.
FAQs About Moving Boxes in Philadelphia
Or just use the original boxes. This will save you a lot of unnecessary stress.
Conclusion
Free and affordable moving boxes are easy to find in Philadelphia. From online platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to local stores, recycling centers, and community events, there are plenty of options to save money and reduce waste. For additional moving resources, consider checking out a moving checklist or connecting with local moving companies for assistance.
Make your move easier, greener, and more affordable with these tips!