Homebuyers’ Hacks: How to Save on Boxes when You Make the Big Move
The whole process of moving is one that is overwhelming and exhausting for almost anyone. And if you are getting ready to make a move to a new home – or are still shopping for that perfect home you hope to find soon – you already have enough things to do, as well as enough expenses to concern yourself with, without fretting over how you’ll get, and afford, enough boxes to move all of your stuff.
Finding ways to get free of charge boxes for moving is not only possible though , it will take a considerable amount of stress off your shoulders during this hectic period in your life.
Moving boxes, if bought outright can end up costing a small fortune depending on much you need to pack. The average cost of one mid-sized box or container can be as much as $6.00 to $10.00 on average; so it’s not difficult to do the math and come to the conclusion that freebie boxes can save you some real cash on a move.
Many homebuyers are unaware that there are tons of places where this goal can be accomplished and in fact, many of these places are begging for them to be taken away and off of their hands. Some of these places may surprise you, but with a little creativity you can manage to get as many boxes as you could possibly need and probably have some left over. All you have to do is ask nicely 🙂
1. Grocery Stores
Grocery stores are an amazing place for needs such as moving boxes because almost everything that they stock comes by way of boxed shipments to them. The great thing about this resource is that they have lots of options as far as sizes and shapes so you can get an assortment of boxes that will suit all your needs. These stores have no problem giving them away because it helps lessen their labor, as they pay employees to crush them once they have been unpacked.
The key with grocery stores is to visit or call ahead and find out two things: which days they get deliveries and which days they discard the boxes. That way you can get there first and have your pick and you won’t risk waiting too long and the boxes being discarded already. You may even be able to set up an exact time to get them and get an employee’s help with loading them into your car.
2. Liquor Stores
These stores are another resource because they also get weekly shipments and have a slew of empty boxes just lying about in all different sizes and shapes. Although these boxes are usually smaller than other places have, they are great for things like dishes and home cleaning supplies and many of them come with much needed lids.
3. McDonalds
Surprisingly, McDonalds and other fast food chains are places people rarely think to use as a resource for free boxes but apparently because these boxes are shipped with frozen and very heavy foods, they are made with reinforced materials; this means they are excellent for heavy loads that you may have.
4. Craigslist and Freecycle Theses are also great sources if you’re looking for free boxes for moving. You may not find them in abundance here because it is mainly people just offering things they have on hand, but it could prove to be helpful, and best of all won’t cost you a thing.