Often, people who have recently moved will give away their boxes for free on these sites or for a nominal fee. Another good option is to watch for moving boxes on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or U-Haul Exchange. Most U-Haul stores have a “Take a Box, Leave a Box” area where you can take the used boxes and moving materials previous customers have left behind. If you’re lucky, though, you can find free or cheap used moving boxes. Even a conservative mix of small, medium and large boxes can set you back $60 or more. Specialty boxes can be equally expensive-you’ll pay $14 for a large wardrobe box. A new 4-Bedroom+ Master Pak® Moving Kit from U-Haul, including boxes and packing materials, costs $440. One of the most common reasons people consider re-using and repurposing boxes is to save money.

Here’s what you need to know to determine which option is best for you.

At other times, you’re better off investing the money in new boxes. There are times when re-using moving boxes and repurposing other boxes makes sense, at least to some degree. Sure, it works, but is it really a good option? Same goes for repurposed boxes, like the box your printer shipped in. However, used boxes have some drawbacks, and if you don’t already have them on hand, you might spend a significant amount of time trying to find them instead of actually packing. Re-using moving boxes can save you money, and it is good for the environment.

Download moving boxes for sale