Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also be expensive with hiring a moving truck or renting storage units and equipment such as lifting dollies and hand trucks. The added costs of cardboard boxes and packing supplies can strain your bank account unless you can get them for free. The good news is you can get free boxes!

Many people are not aware of the many sources for free moving boxes, so we have compiled the following list of eight places. Check them out!

1. Relatives, Friends, and Neighbors

According to Krazy Coupon Lady, the quickest and easiest source for free moving boxes is the people you know. Call, visit or text your relatives, friends, and neighbors to ask if they have any to give away. Most people will be glad to get rid of them. You can also post a request for free boxes on various social media platforms.

2. Hardware Stores

Many small-town hardware stores would be happy for you to take boxes off their hands so that they don’t have to worry about breaking them down and crushing them. Hardware stores are also good places to get free pallets if those make moving easier for you.

3. Office Supply Stores

Stores like Staples and Office Depot frequently receive supplies in boxes that are sturdy and perfect for moving items like dishes and books. A plus is that boxes previously used to ship printer/copier paper often feature handles and lids, requiring minimal tape. Additionally, many of these office supply boxes contain packing materials like bubble wrap and packing peanuts, which are ideal for fragile chinaware and valuable keepsakes.

4. Bookstores

If you need strong, solid boxes, bookstores are the place to look because boxes packed with books are heavy. Whether it be independent, small-town bookshops or large chain bookstores like Books-A-Million or Barnes and Noble, these stores often receive shipments multiple times a week.

5. Large Retail Stores

Austin local movers recommend trying large, name-brand retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, Target and Sam’s Club. These are great places to find boxes because they receive shipments daily. You are also likely to find large boxes at these places to use for moving appliances.

6. U-Haul Box Drop and Exchange

U-Haul offers free drop and exchange services with locations in most U-Haul company stores and many independent stores. Go to your local U-Haul store to pick up reusable boxes that have been dropped off by previous movers. You can also check out the U-Haul Customer Connect message boards where people offer boxes and moving supplies for free, trade, or sell.

7. Grocery Stores

Both large chain stores and local grocers get shipments daily or several times a week. Call your local grocery store to let them know you are needing moving boxes and ask when their shipments come in.

8. Restaurants

Like grocery stores, restaurants receive shipments frequently with boxes that come in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes. Restaurant employees are often busy with other duties and may be glad for you to save them the chore of breaking down boxes for the dumpster. Call ahead of time to find out when shipments are expected.