8 Best Places to Get Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Joliet, IL

Preparing for a move in or out of Joliet, IL? Whether you're moving across the country or relocating locally, the costs of moving can add up quickly. One of the best ways to save money is by getting free or cheap boxes near you. In the guide below, discover where you can find affordable or free moving boxes in Joliet.

Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?

When planning your move in Joliet, you'll need to decide whether to buy new moving boxes or look for free, used boxes near you. Each option comes with advantages and disadvantages—so the right choice will depend on your timeline, budget, and needs.

Purchasing new boxes is a good option if you're moving on short notice and need to secure boxes quickly. New boxes are often easier to pack, stack, and load onto your moving truck, as they are durable and uniform in size. Plus, you'll be able to find specific sizes and types of boxes suited to your items.

However, finding free moving boxes is a great choice if you want to save money for other parts of your move—such as hiring movers or renting a moving truck. Not to mention, reusing boxes reduces waste, making for a more sustainable move.

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Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Joliet

You can get free boxes in Joliet from a variety of sources, including online marketplaces, grocery stores, liquor stores, and other local retailers. Here's where to look for free moving boxes near you!

Online Exchanges in Joliet

You may be able to find listings for free cardboard boxes in Joliet on exchange platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Nextdoor. Joining local groups like Buy Nothing Joliet (West), IL and We Buy Nothing Joliet is another good way to connect with residents offering free or low-cost moving supplies near you. When picking up boxes from someone you've met online, bring a friend along and meet in a well-lit, public place for your safety. Or, if you'd rather stay within your personal network, ask friends and family via social media if they have any boxes they could spare.

Liquor Stores in Joliet

Liquor store boxes are great options for packing fragile dishes, glassware, and other delicate belongings, as they're sturdy and many come with built-in dividers for extra protection. Call ahead to liquor stores near you like Binny's Beverage Depot or John's Beverage Warehouse to see if any boxes are available.

Grocery Stores in Joliet

Grocery stores often receive deliveries in sturdy boxes that are resistant to minor impacts, making them perfect for packing a variety of household items. Contact stores like Jewel-Osco, Tony's Fresh Market, or Fresh Thyme Market to see if they can hold any boxes for you to pick up. Be sure to thoroughly check all boxes for food remnants, stains, or signs of pests before taking them home. Additionally, be careful if you use any banana boxes, as they have large holes that may allow smaller belongings to fall out.

Other Stores & Retailers in Joliet

Other businesses that get regular deliveries—like pharmacies and bookstores—may also have good options for free moving boxes near you. Call ahead to retailers like Barnes & Noble, CVS, and Walgreens to see if they can save some boxes for you.

Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Joliet

There are plenty of places to get affordable moving boxes in Joliet, including home improvement stores, big-box retailers, and self storage facilities. Moving box prices typically range from $1.12 for small boxes to $9.49 for large boxes, depending on the seller and box type.

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

Walmart

Walmart offers Joliet moving boxes sized from 17x11x12 at $1.12 to 27x15x17 at $2.26. There is one Walmart Supercenter in Joliet where you can buy moving boxes, as well as other moving supplies—including packing paper, packing tape, and stretch wrap.

Home Depot

Buy boxes ranging from 10x8x10 at $1.28 to 24x20x20 at $3.78 at Home Depot in Joliet. There is one Home Depot location in Joliet that sells moving boxes, plus moving essentials like moving straps, tie-downs, furniture protection kits, and more.

OfficeMax

Find moving boxes ranging in size from 6x6x6 at $1.99 to 20x20x24 at $9.49 at OfficeMax in Joliet. The city's single OfficeMax location on Larkin Ave sells cardboard boxes, along with moving labels, packing foam, bubble wrap, and other packing supplies.

Extra Space Storage

Extra Space Storage provides high-quality moving boxes in Joliet, with sizes ranging from 16.6x12.5x12.5 at $2.69 to 24x18x24 at $5.99. There are two Extra Space Storage locations in Joliet that sell moving boxes. You can also buy moving supplies like dish protection kits, mattress bags, stretch wrap, and more.

Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Joliet

After unpacking and settling into your new home, there are several eco-friendly ways to get rid of your moving boxes. If they're still in good condition, consider donating or reselling your boxes online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Or utilize one of these convenient Joliet recycling options.

Mailboxes & Print Depot

Mailboxes & Print Depot accepts cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like bubble cushion, packing peanuts, and more. Their hours are typically Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find Mailboxes & Print Depot at 2405 Essington Rd Ste B.

Loop Paper Recycling

Loop Paper Recycling accepts cardboard moving boxes and other packing materials like newspaper. You can schedule bulk recycling pickup services for a fee, which is a great option for large quantities of moving boxes. Loop Paper Recycling also offers cardboard drop-off—simply contact them to confirm the right facility and how to unload. Their hours are typically Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Find Loop Paper Recycling at 509 Rowell Ave.

Waste Management

Waste Management accepts cardboard moving boxes, as well as other moving supplies like packing paper and newspaper, through their curbside pickup services. All recyclables should be placed loosely in your recycling bin and set by the curb—three feet from any obstacles—before 7 a.m. on your scheduled pickup day. Recycling is collected weekly, and residents can verify the pickup schedule online.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

In Joliet, your best chance of getting free boxes from stores is typically early in the morning during the middle of the week. Most stores unpack deliveries before opening or shortly after, so they may have empty boxes left over. However, it's always a good idea to call ahead before stopping by to confirm availability.

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

Taking boxes from store dumpsters and recycling bins in Joliet isn't advised, as they're often located on private property—which could lead to trespassing issues. A better option is to ask store employees if they can set aside some boxes for you. You can also check online marketplaces to connect with locals giving away free or cheap moving supplies near you.

Does Extra Space Storage sell moving boxes and supplies in Joliet, IL?

Extra Space Storage sells a wide range of moving supplies in Joliet, including durable cardboard boxes, packing tape, tie-down straps, bubble wrap, and more. Picking up supplies from a storage facility can be convenient and ensures you're getting sturdy, reliable materials for your upcoming move.

What moving box sizes are available at Extra Space Storage in Joliet?

Extra Space Storage in Joliet carries several box sizes to match different packing needs, including:

• Small Boxes (1.5 cu ft): Ideal for heavy, compact belongings like books, tools, and canned goods.

• Medium Boxes (3 cu ft): Good for kitchenware, small appliances, and decor.

• Large Boxes (4.5–6 cu ft): Best for pillows, bedding, and other lightweight, bulky items.

• Wardrobe Boxes: Designed for hanging clothes to keep them wrinkle-free.

• File Boxes: Useful for organizing and protecting important documents.

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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 Joliet! And find more moving resources on our moving hub!