Are you preparing to move out soon? Whether you’re moving locally, moving from a neighboring area, or cross-country, moving costs can add up quickly. Finding moving boxes in Washington, DC is easy and simple—here’s to find free and cheap moving boxes near you!
Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?
As you begin packing for your move, you’ll need to decide whether to buy new moving boxes or find used ones for free. Both options have their pros and cons.
If you decide to buy brand new moving boxes, you’ll be more likely to find the sizes and types you need. Plus, they provide uniformity for efficiently packing your items, are better in quality, and are more convenient than searching for used boxes.
On the other hand, finding free moving boxes is a great alternative, especially if you’re moving on a budget. Not only are they low-cost, but they’re also reusable, making this an eco-friendly solution.
Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Washington, DC
If you’re looking for the best places to get free moving boxes in Washington, DC, check out local liquor stores, grocery stores, retailers, online exchanges, and more. Additionally, you can find used boxes at other local stores and recycling centers.
Online Exchanges in Washington, DC
Digital exchanges and apps are a perfect resource for finding free moving boxes in Washington, DC. Some exchanges and groups in Washington, DC include Craigslist Washington, DC, Facebook Marketplace Washington D.C., Nextdoor Washington, DC, U-Haul Box Exchange, and Freecycle Washington, DC. You could also check out local buy-sell-trade groups like Washington DC Buy/Sell and Trade and Trash Nothing to see if there are any free boxes available. If you’re unable to find moving boxes in the online exchanges, reach out to friends on social media to see if anyone is giving away moving boxes in DC or surrounding areas. Consider meeting in a public place or taking a family member or friend with you if you’re picking up your moving boxes.
Liquor Stores in Washington, DC
Consider checking out local liquor stores if you’re looking for free moving boxes in DC, as their boxes are equipped for handling large, bulky items. These boxes also usually have dividers, perfect for handling and transporting glass and other fragile items. Reach out to liquor stores in and near DC like Sherry’s Wine & Spirits, Barmy Wines & Liquors, and Calvert Woodley Fine Wines & Spirits to see if they have any free, used boxes available for you. If you have a friend who works at a bar, consider reaching out to them to see if they have any boxes they could give away or save for you. Remember—asking nicely goes a long way!
Grocery Stores in Washington, DC
Grocery stores are an ideal place to find free cardboard boxes, as their boxes are sturdy and resistant to minor impacts, making them a perfect option for transporting large, bulky, or fragile items. Before taking your moving boxes, make sure to inspect them for food remnants, smells, stains, and evidence of pests. Be mindful of banana boxes, as they have large holes and may cause your items to fall out. Contact stores like Safeway, Trader Joe’s, and Hana Japanese Market to see if they have any boxes or can save some for you.
Recycling Centers & Dumpsters in Washington, DC
Some recycling centers in Washington, DC may give you cardboard boxes for free, but it’s best to call ahead and ask before visiting. Check the boxes for stains, evidence of pests, and structural integrity before you take them with you—they’ll probably need taped again. Contact Fort Totten Transfer Station and McCrae Enterprises to see if they have any boxes available for you. Additionally, recycling centers and dumpsters near the area, like Recycle 1, may also offer cardboard boxes for free if you call ahead.
Other Stores & Retailers in Washington, DC
Retail and other types of stores are more places where you can find free moving boxes in DC. These types of boxes tend to be higher quality and are able to hold and safely transport fragile or bulky items. Contact your local CVS, Costco, or T.J. Maxx to see if they have any boxes available for you to pick up.
Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Washington, DC
There are several places in Washington, DC where you can buy cheap moving boxes, including national retail stores and self storage facilities. Moving boxes in Washington, DC range from $0.98 to $6.98 depending on the size you choose.
Please note that listed dimensions for boxes with precise measurements are rounded to the nearest tenth.
Walmart
You can find moving boxes as small as 12x8x10 for $0.98 to 24x16x19 for $4.12 at Walmart locations in Washington, DC. There are three Walmart locations in Washington, DC, and they also sell other moving supplies like packing paper, mattress protectors, and packing tape.
Home Depot
Moving boxes in Washington, DC can be found at any Home Depot location, with sizes ranging from 15x10x12 for $1.28 to 24x20x21 for $6.98. There is one Home Depot location in Washington, DC. You can find additional moving supplies at Home Depot, including bubble cushion, moving blankets, and furniture sliders.
Lowe’s
Check out your local Lowe’s for cheap moving boxes near you in Washington, DC, ranging in size from 15x10x12 for $1.98 to 22x21.5x22 for $3.75. There is one Lowe’s location in Washington, DC. You can find additional moving supplies like packing paper, stretch wrap, and bubble cushion.
Ace Hardware
Find affordable moving boxes in Washington, DC at Ace Hardware, where sizes vary from 10x12x12 for $1.99 and 24x18x18 for $4.99. There are seven Ace Hardware locations in Washington, DC. You can also find other moving supplies at Ace Hardware, like bubble cushion, packing paper, and lifting straps.
Extra Space Storage
If you need quality moving boxes in the Washington, DC area, stop by your nearest Extra Space Storage location. You can find moving boxes ranging from 16.6x12.5x12.5 for $2.69 to 24x18x24 for $5.99. There are seven Extra Space locations in Washington, DC, where you can find moving supplies like tape, mattress bags, and tie-down rope.
Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Washington, DC
Wondering what to do with your moving boxes once you’re settled into your new home? Washington, DC has recycling facilities in and near the area, like Fort Totten Transfer Station or McCrae Enterprises. You can also resell your moving boxes online through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Freecycle.
Fort Totten Transfer Station
Fort Totten Transfer Station accepts cardboard moving boxes, as well as mattresses, box springs, and major appliances like refrigerators. While there are no drop-off fees, make sure you have proper identification, such as a valid driver’s license, when you arrive. If you don’t have a Washington, DC license, bring a photo ID issued by another state and a current utility bill within the past 30 days or a copy of your residential lease or deed. Their hours are typically 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Find Fort Totten Transfer Station at 4900 John McCormack Rd NE.
McCrae Enterprises
McCrae Enterprises accepts cardboard moving boxes, as well as paper and plastic. Contact them to confirm their fees and any drop-off rules. Their hours are typically 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Find McCrae Enterprises at 1830 Lincoln Rd NE.
Quincy Recycling Drop-Off Center
Quincy Recycling Drop-Off Center accepts cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like paper, plastic, and metal. While there are no drop-off fees, ensure the recycling area stays litter-free and that items are placed in proper bins when dropping off your items. Their hours are typically from dawn to 11 p.m. daily. Find Quincy Recycling Drop-Off Center on N Quincy St & Washington Blvd in Arlington, VA.
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Moving to Washington, DC? Extra Space Storage offers a variety of moving boxes and supplies available for in-store pickup at storage facilities in Washington, DC!
