You can get packing boxes both for free and by buying them, depending on how quickly and neatly you want to organize your move.

Quick Scoop: Fast Places To Check

  • Big-box stores (Walmart, Target, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe’s) usually sell moving box bundles in many sizes and also carry tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper.
  • Hardware and DIY stores often have a packing aisle with sturdy moving-specific boxes, wardrobe boxes, and dish packs.
  • Self‑storage facilities (like local storage chains) almost always sell moving boxes and packing supplies at the front office.
  • Office supply stores sell shipping and file boxes that work well for books, documents, and small items.
  • Online retailers (Amazon, eBay, or packaging‑supply websites) sell bulk packs of boxes if you need a lot at once and don’t mind waiting for delivery.

Free or Cheap Options

  • Grocery stores, liquor stores, and pharmacies often have strong boxes from deliveries; ask staff if they have some in the back they plan to recycle.
  • Big-box retailers sometimes leave flattened boxes on carts near the stockroom or recycling area—ask before taking.
  • Local classifieds and forums (Craigslist “free” section, Facebook Marketplace, neighborhood groups, Freecycle) often have people giving away moving boxes after they unpack.
  • Friends, coworkers, or neighbors who recently moved usually have a pile of boxes they’re happy to get rid of.

If You Need Specialty Boxes

  • Wardrobe boxes (for hanging clothes), dish/glass kits, and TV or mirror boxes are easiest to find at moving truck rental counters, storage facilities, and home‑improvement stores.
  • If you’re shipping items, look for shipping‑grade boxes from postal/shipping shops or packaging‑supply websites rather than reusing thin retail boxes.

Simple Strategy (Step‑By‑Step)

  1. Decide how many boxes you need and what sizes (small for books, medium for general items, large for light/bulky things).
  2. Check local free sources first: grocery/liquor stores and online “free stuff” listings.
  3. Whatever you still lack, buy in one trip from a home‑improvement store, storage facility, or big‑box retailer.
  4. After your move, flatten and give away or recycle your boxes so someone else can reuse them.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.