9 Best Places to Get Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Arlington, VA

Are you planning to relocate within Arlington or out-of-state? Whether you're moving locally or across the country, moving expenses are a top concern—and moving supplies can be an unexpected cost of moving. Thankfully, you can save money by finding free moving boxes or buying cheap ones. Here's where you can find free and affordable moving boxes in Arlington!

Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?

One of the most critical decisions you'll face is whether to buy new moving boxes or find used ones for free. Both options have their pros and cons.

If you decide to buy new boxes, you'll likely find that they are higher quality and more durable. Plus, it's easier to find the specific box types and sizes you'll need, leading to uniformity for stacking. It's also easier to buy new than search for free boxes.

However, getting moving boxes for free is more cost-effective—especially if you're moving on a budget—or are hoping to make your move more sustainable.

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Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Arlington

For free moving boxes in Arlington, check out liquor stores, grocery stores, online exchanges, and local retailers. You can also find used moving boxes at recycling centers and dumpsters.

Online Exchanges in Arlington

There are multiple online marketplaces and apps where you can find free moving boxes in Arlington. Check out online groups like Facebook Marketplace Arlington, VA and members-only Buy Nothing Arlington, VA—or marketplaces like Craigslist Arlington—to see if anyone is selling their moving boxes. Additionally, you can also look at apps like Nextdoor Arlington, VA and Freecycle Arlington. Keep in mind that some boxes are free and some are for a small price. If you can't find any moving boxes on apps or marketplaces, consider asking friends on social media to see if anyone is giving boxes away for free. When meeting people online, it's advised to meet in a public place or bring a trusted friend or family member for safety reasons.

Liquor Stores in Arlington

Liquor store boxes are a perfect option for finding moving boxes, as they are heavy duty and may have dividers, making them ideal for transporting wine glasses and other fragile items. There are many Arlington liquor stores that give away boxes for free. Check out Total Wine & More and Virginia ABC—and local liquor stores like The Brew Shop—to see if they have any moving boxes they can give to you.

Grocery Stores in Arlington

You can find quality cardboard boxes at most grocery stores in Arlington. Grocery store boxes are typically sturdy and resistant to minor impacts, perfect for holding and transporting large, bulky, or fragile items. Before you pick up your boxes, inspect them for food remnants, stains, or evidence of pests and rodents. Be mindful of banana boxes, as they have large holes, which can cause some items to fall out. Call ahead to stores like Trader Joe's, Safeway, and Glebe Market to see if they have boxes or can save some for you.

Recycling Centers & Dumpsters in Arlington

Some recycling centers may give you moving boxes for free, but it's best to call ahead and ask. Before taking your boxes, make sure to check for stains, evidence of pests, and structural integrity—and tape them up for added re-enforcement. Call ahead to drop-off centers in Arlington, like Quincy Park Recycling Drop-Off Center and Trades Center Recycling Drop-Off Center to see if they have any cardboard boxes to give away to you.

Other Stores & Retailers in Arlington

Cardboard boxes from retailers and local stores in Arlington are perfect for moving. They are typically good quality, reliable, and durable for moving large, bulky items. Reach out to your local Costco and CVS—or local bookstores in Arlington like One More Page Books—to see if they have boxes available or can hold some for you.

Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Arlington

They are various places where you can find cheap moving boxes in Arlington, like self storage facilities and national retailers. Moving boxes in Arlington vary from $1.99 to $8.59, depending on the size you need.

Please note that listed dimensions for boxes with precise measurements are rounded to the nearest tenth.

Target

Moving boxes at Target locations in Arlington range from 16x12x12 for $1.99 to 24x16x19 for $3.99. There are two Target locations in Arlington that sell moving boxes—plus other moving supplies like packing tape, bubble cushion, and dish packing kits.

The Container Store

The Container Store offers moving boxes in Arlington, varying from 8x6x4 for $1.99 to 18.1x18x16 for $4.49. There is one The Container Store location in Arlington that offers moving boxes. Plus, you can find moving supplies like packing tape and cushion lock wrap.

Extra Space Storage

For high quality moving boxes in Arlington, check out 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 three Extra Space Storage locations in Arlington, also selling moving supplies like stretch film, bubble cushion, and poly rope.

Ace Hardware

You can find moving boxes ranging from 14x14x14 for $2.99 to 18x24x24 for $8.59 at Ace Hardware. There are two Ace Hardware stores in Arlington that sell moving boxes, as well as moving supplies like bubble cushion, lifting straps, and stretch film.

Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Arlington

Once you're settled into your new home, consider recycling your moving boxes to sustainably get rid of them. There are recycling drop-off centers in Arlington—like Trades Center Recycling Drop-Off Center—where you can recycle your boxes. Plus, there are curbside pickup options like Reliable Hauling that will pick up your boxes once you're done. You can also resell your boxes on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

Trades Center Recycling Drop-Off Center

Trades Center Recycling Drop-Off Center accepts cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like packing paper. They do not have a drop-off fee, but they request that items be placed in the appropriate bins. Their hours are typically 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and closed on Sunday. Find Trades Center Recycling Drop-Off Center at 2700 S Taylor St.

Quincy Park Recycling Drop-Off Center

Quincy Park Recycling Drop-Off Center accepts cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like newspaper. They do not have a drop-off fee, but they request recycling only for materials specifically listed on their website. They are open daily from dawn to 11 p.m. daily. Find Quincy Park Recycling Drop-Off Center at the intersection of N Quincy St & Washington Blvd on the northeast corner.

Reliable Hauling

Reliable Hauling accepts cardboard moving boxes—and may accept other moving supplies if you call ahead and ask. The required fee depends on how much space it takes up in their truck, so call ahead to schedule a quote. You are not required to be present during pickup, but be sure to leave your boxes on your curbside for easier access. Call ahead, send an email, or fill out the form on their website to schedule a pick up time. Find Reliable Hauling at 4708 Old Dominion Dr.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time and day to get free boxes from stores?

In Arlington, VA, the early mornings are the ideal time to get moving boxes, as stores typically receive and unload shipments during this time. Try visiting midweek—when restocks often happen—to ensure you find the most durable options.

Can I legally retrieve boxes from store dumpsters or the recycling bin?

In Arlington, VA, avoid retrieving boxes from store dumpsters or recycling bins, as it may violate property laws. Ask store staff if you can take boxes or look through local buy-sell-trade groups to see if anyone is giving away free boxes.

Does Extra Space Storage sell moving boxes and supplies in Arlington, VA?

Yes! Extra Space Storage locations in Arlington offer moving boxes, bubble cushion, protection kits, and other moving supplies. These high-quality materials can keep your belongings well-protected during transport.

What moving box sizes are available at Extra Space Storage in Arlington, VA?

Extra Space Storage in Arlington provides a variety of box sizes:

• Small Boxes (1.5 cu ft): For heavy or compact items like books or tools.

• Medium Boxes (3 cu ft): For household goods, toys, and kitchen supplies.

• Large Boxes (4.5–6 cu ft): For bulky soft items like bedding, clothing, or pillows.

• Wardrobe Boxes: For hanging and protecting garments.

• File Boxes: For important documents, paperwork, and records.

These box sizes can help you pack and move with ease.

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Getting ready to move? Extra Space Storage offers a variety of moving boxes and supplies available for in-store pickup at storage facilities in Arlington! And find more moving resources on our moving hub!