One of the hidden costs of moving house is purchasing packing materials, especially boxes. However, there are plenty of places where you can find free boxes, which can help reduce your moving expenses. With a little bit of planning, you can gather all the boxes you need without spending a penny. Here’s a guide on where to find free boxes and what to look out for when sourcing them.
1. Major Supermarket Chains
The first places to check for free moving boxes are large supermarket chains like ASDA, Lidl, Iceland, and Co-op. These stores receive daily deliveries, so they often have plenty of cardboard boxes to spare. For the best chances of success:
- Timing is key: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening when shelves are being restocked.
- Preferred types: Look for fruit and alcohol boxes as they are sturdy and designed to carry heavier items. Also, detergent boxes are durable and ideal for packing heavy objects. Ensure the boxes are free from tears or damage.
At Tesco, the ideal time to ask for boxes is between 6 and 7 AM before they’re taken for recycling. However, availability may vary based on individual store policies.
2. Discount Stores
Discount chains such as Poundland also receive regular deliveries due to their bulk-selling nature. These stores often have an abundance of boxes that they may otherwise recycle or discard. Don’t hesitate to ask staff members if they have any boxes to spare or inquire about the best time to return when more are available.
3. Grocery Stores and Off-License Shops
Local grocery stores and off-license shops (liquor stores) are excellent places to find free boxes, particularly those designed for alcohol. These shops often have limited space, so they’re more than happy to give away boxes they no longer need. Liquor boxes, in particular, are sturdy and great for packing heavy or fragile items.
4. Bars and Restaurants
While bars and restaurants receive regular deliveries of alcohol, their supply of boxes may be limited. However, it’s still worth checking, especially if you need smaller, sturdy boxes. Politely ask if they can set aside any boxes from their next delivery for you.
5. Coffee Shops
Chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee are known for their eco-friendly initiatives, including recycling efforts. You can request their coffee supply boxes, which, although smaller than regular moving boxes, are ideal for packing smaller or more delicate items like decorations. Once you’ve finished moving, you can return the used boxes to Costa Coffee for recycling, as they accept non-branded boxes.
6. Bookstores
If you’re packing a lot of books, folders, or documents, head to bookstores like WHSmith or Waterstones. Bookstore boxes are strong and specifically designed to carry weighty items like books, making them perfect for your heavier belongings. To make the packing process smoother, check out tips on how to pack books efficiently to avoid damage or overloading boxes.
Final Tips for Collecting Free Boxes
- Be sure to inspect the boxes: Check for any tears, dampness, or bugs before taking them home.
- Ask ahead: If a store doesn’t have boxes available at the time, ask about their delivery schedules and return when they’re likely to have more.
- Mix and match: You may need boxes of different sizes and strengths, so don’t hesitate to collect a variety from different sources.
By utilising these tips, you can easily source enough free boxes for your move, saving money and helping the environment by recycling.
