9 Best Places to Get Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Murfreesboro, TN

Moving in Murfreesboro? Whether you’re relocating across town or heading out of state, moving costs can add up quickly—especially when you factor in movers, truck rentals, and any unexpected expenses. Cutting costs on boxes and packing supplies is a simple way to stay under budget while moving. Here’s where to find cheap or free moving boxes in Murfreesboro.

Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?

When moving, one of the first decisions to make is whether to purchase new moving boxes or find free used boxes in Murfreesboro. The best choice depends on your timeline, budget, and the scale of your move.

New cardboard boxes are very convenient. Not only are they clean and sturdy, but they also come in consistent sizes, which makes packing and stacking much easier for long-distance moves or when you’re packing fragile items. New boxes are also easy to find locally if you’re moving on a tight schedule.

Alternatively, free moving boxes in Murfreesboro can significantly reduce costs and help stretch your budget further. It’s also more sustainable, giving used moving boxes a second life instead of sending them straight to recycling. This approach works best if you have time to collect, sort, and reinforce boxes before moving.

Get a Free Moving Box & Packing Supplies Estimate 📦

Wondering how many moving boxes you need? Get a quick, free estimate using our moving box calculator for box size and quantity recommendations, as well as packing supplies suggestions!

Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Murfreesboro

Finding free moving boxes in Murfreesboro is easier when you're aware of when and where local businesses and residents offload extras. Between retail stores, online listings, and recycling options, here are some of the best ways to find free moving boxes in Murfreesboro.

Online Exchanges in Murfreesboro

Online platforms and groups are a quick way to find free boxes for moving near you. Start with Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing Murfreesboro. Other platforms, such as Nextdoor Murfreesboro and local Craigslist listings, are reliable avenues to find residents offering free moving supplies after relocating. You can also post a request in a neighborhood or family group asking for spare boxes. Murfreesboro is a growing Tennessee city with a steady stream of student and military moves, so free boxes online tend to go quickly. It's best to act fast and coordinate pickup in safe, public locations when possible.

Liquor Stores in Murfreesboro

If you're looking for free, yet sturdy moving boxes, Murfreesboro liquor stores are a great source. Liquor boxes are often strong and sometimes include built-in dividers, making them ideal for packing wine glasses or other fragile kitchen items. Try calling local spots like Stones River Total Beverages, Old Fort Liquor & Wine, and CNG Wine & Spirits to see if they set aside boxes after deliveries.

Grocery Stores in Murfreesboro

Grocery stores regularly have extra cardboard boxes for moving from restocking shelves. Stores like Kroger, Publix, and ALDI in Murfreesboro often have boxes available near the back or customer service area. These are especially useful for packing books, pantry goods, and even small kitchen appliances. Just make sure boxes are clean, dry, and free from food residue. Produce and banana boxes can be strong, but may have holes or moisture damage, so use them for larger, less delicate items when possible.

Recycling Centers & Dumpsters in Murfreesboro

Recycling centers in Murfreesboro can also be a helpful source of free boxes, especially after large residential drop-offs. There are 14 Rutherford County Convenience Centers in and around Murfreesboro, each of which accepts used cardboard boxes that may be available for use. However, it's highly recommended to call ahead and always check that boxes are dry, pest-free, and structurally intact before using them for moving.

Other Stores & Retailers in Murfreesboro

Many local retailers in Murfreesboro receive frequent shipments and are happy to give away their extra cardboard boxes. Pharmacies, pet stores, and discount retailers are all worth checking. Try places like Walgreens, PetSmart, and Dollar General. These locations often have sturdy boxes from inventory shipments that would otherwise be recycled.

Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Murfreesboro

If you prefer to buy moving supplies, Murfreesboro offers plenty of options for affordable moving boxes through national retailers and moving supply stores. Prices typically range from about $1.12 to $9.49 per box, depending on size and strength.

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

Walmart

Walmart in Murfreesboro is a great source for inexpensive moving supplies, with box sizes ranging from 17x11x12 at $1.12 to 27x15x17 at $2.26. It’s a convenient stop for packing supplies, whether you’re handling a small move or a larger household. The six Walmart locations in Murfreesboro also carry essentials like packing tape, stretch wrap, and furniture sliders to help streamline your move.

Home Depot

Home Depot in Murfreesboro stocks a wide selection of cardboard moving boxes, from compact 10x8x10 boxes at $1.28 to larger 20x24x20 options at $3.78. Located at 1750 Old Fort Pkwy, this store is a durable choice for full-home moves. You’ll also find helpful supplies like bubble wrap, moving blankets, and hand trucks.

Target

For lighter packing needs, Target is a solid option in Murfreesboro. At 1851 Old Fort Pkwy, this store offers moving box sizes ranging from 16x12x12 at $1.99 to 24x16x19 at $3.99. Additionally, Target carries affordable packing supplies like tape, packing paper, and foam for added protection.

Office Depot

Office Depot in Murfreesboro offers a range of moving boxes for purchase, from small 6x6x6 boxes at $1.99 to larger 20x20x24 boxes at $9.49. As an office supply store, it's great if you need sturdier boxes for fragile or valuable items. They also stock useful supplies like labels, tape, and moving equipment.

Extra Space Storage

Extra Space Storage locations in Murfreesboro sell moving boxes in sizes ranging from about 16.6x12.5x12.5 at $2.69 to 24x18x24 at $5.99, along with durable packing kits. With multiple facilities nearby, it’s an easy place to pick up additional supplies like tape guns, dish protection kits, and tie-down rope for a more secure move.

Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Murfreesboro

After your move, you'll need to figure out what to do with your own moving boxes. Consider reusing or reselling boxes on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor before recycling them. Or, they're ready to be disposed of, flatten and recycle them at a City of Murfreesboro recycling drop-off location.

Murfreesboro City Convenience Center

Located at 648 W. Main St., the Murfreesboro City Convenience Center is a reliable option for recycling cardboard boxes and other approved materials. The site is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., making it suitable for weekday drop-offs. Residents should flatten all boxes before arrival and ensure materials are clean and dry.

Rutherford County Convenience Centers

Rutherford County operates 14 convenience centers, including five in Murfreesboro. These sites accept cardboard, household recyclables, and larger mixed loads, making them a flexible option after a move. They typically operate from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the weekend, though hours may vary. As with most facilities, boxes should be flattened and free of debris, and residents are limited to three bulk items per day.

These convenience centers can be found within Murfreesboro:

• Marshall Knob Convenience Center: 3827 Shelbyville Hwy

• Bradyville Convenience Center: 6615 Bradyville Pike

• Cranor Road Convenience Center: 1567 Cranor Rd

• Leanna Convenience Center: 4303 Sulphur Springs Road

• Walter Hill Convenience Center: 870 East Jefferson Pike

LoadUp

If you aren't able to drop off your boxes, consider scheduling a pick-up from LoadUp. The price to haul cardboard away depends on your location and how much cardboard you have. Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. If you have questions about pricing or would like to set up services, call (678) 884-4738 or book directly on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The best time to get free boxes is typically early weekday mornings, especially after restocking deliveries. Calling ahead to Murfreesboro stores can help you time your visit and improve your chances of finding boxes.

Can I take boxes from store dumpsters or recycling areas?

Most store dumpsters are private property, so it’s best to avoid taking boxes from those areas. Instead, ask staff directly or check online community listings for free options.

Does Extra Space Storage sell moving boxes in Murfreesboro, TN?

Extra Space Storage locations in Murfreesboro sell moving boxes and an array of packing supplies, including packing tape, bubble wrap, and other items available for in-store purchase.

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

Extra Space Storage locations in Murfreesboro accommodate a variety of needs with plenty of box sizes, including:

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

• Medium Boxes (3 cu ft): Great for kitchenware, toys, and decor.

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

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

• File Boxes: Perfect for organizing and protecting documents and paperwork.

***

Moving soon? Extra Space Storage offers a variety of moving boxes and supplies available for in-store pickup at storage facilities in Murfreesboro! And find more moving resources on our moving hub!