11 Best Places to Get Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Nashville

Whether you're moving locally or across the country, moving costs can accumulate quickly. However, there are several places you can find quality moving boxes without breaking your budget. Learn where to get free and cheap moving boxes in Nashville!

Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?

When preparing to move, you'll need to decide whether to buy new moving boxes or find used ones for free. There are pros and cons to both options.

New moving boxes come in a variety of sizes and types, so you can find the perfect ones for your moving needs. They also offer sturdiness and uniformity, allowing you to easily pack them, label them consistently, and stack them in your moving truck. Plus, new boxes are easy to find compared to the effort required to track down free, used boxes and are often sold alongside other moving supplies like packing tape.

On the other hand, finding free, used moving boxes in Nashville is a perfect option if you're moving on a budget. Opting for used boxes is cost-effective and has the added benefit of reducing waste, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

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Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Nashville

You can find free moving boxes in Nashville through online platforms, or at various liquor stores, grocery stores, and recycling centers across the city.

Online Exchanges in Nashville

There are multiple online marketplaces and apps where you can find free, used boxes in Nashville. Popular options include Craigslist Nashville, Nextdoor Nashville, Facebook Marketplace Nashville, and Facebook groups like Buy Nothing Nashville and Nashville, TN & Surrounding Areas Buy, Sell, Trade. You can also check Freecycle Nashville to see if anyone is offering free or affordable options. When picking up boxes from an online exchange, make sure to bring a trusted individual with you and meet in a public place. If you're unable to find boxes through marketplaces, groups, or other sites, consider reaching out to friends on social media and asking them to save boxes for you.

Liquor Stores in Nashville

Liquor store boxes are an ideal option if you're looking for free moving boxes in Nashville. These boxes tend to be sturdy and are perfect for carrying heavy items—plus, they may come with dividers, allowing you to securely pack fragile items like dishes, china, and glassware. Call Bud's Liquors & Wine, Frugal MacDougal, or Corkdorks to see if they have boxes you can take.

Grocery Stores in Nashville

If you're looking for reliable, free cardboard boxes in Nashville, grocery store boxes are a good bet. They tend to be sturdy and resistant to minor impacts, making them a perfect option for your belongings. Before using grocery store boxes, check for food remnants, stains, and possible pests or bugs—and be mindful of banana boxes, as they have holes in them which smaller items could fall through. Stores like Publix, Trader Joe's, and Whole Foods may offer cardboard boxes—but call ahead to confirm or see if they can save some for you.

Recycling Centers & Dumpsters in Nashville

Some dumpsters and recycling centers in Nashville may have cardboard boxes, but remember to call ahead or ask site attendants if taking boxes is permitted. Additionally, make sure your boxes are free of stains, have no signs of pests, and are secure and sturdy—tape them up for added reinforcement if necessary. Check with any of the 11 City of Nashville recycling drop-off sites like those at McGavock High School and Granbery Elementary School—or convenience centers like East Convenience Center—for possible moving box options.

Other Stores & Retailers in Nashville

Pet stores, department stores, and pharmacies are all alternative places where you can find quality cardboard boxes in Nashville. These stores regularly receive shipments of stock, and their boxes are designed to hold items safely for shipping, making them perfect for moving. Call your nearest CVS, TJ Maxx, or local stores like Wags & Whiskers to see if they have any boxes available for you.

Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Nashville

Supermarkets, hardware stores, and self storage facilities are perfect places to find cheap moving boxes near you. Moving boxes in Nashville typically range from $1.00 to $5.99 apiece, depending on the size, box type, and retailer.

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

Walmart

You can find boxes ranging from 17x11x12.3 for $1.00 to 27x15x17.5 for $2.10 at Walmart in Nashville. There are six Walmart locations in Nashville that sell moving boxes, along with other moving supplies like packing paper, sofa covers, and packing tape.

Home Depot

Home Depot offers boxes in Nashville that range from 15x10x12 at $1.28 to 24x20x21 at $3.78. There are three Home Depot locations in Nashville that sell moving boxes. You can also find other moving supplies like bubble cushion, furniture sliders, and mattress bags at these locations.

Lowe's

Buy affordable moving boxes in Nashville at Lowe's, with options varying from 16x12x12 for $1.68 to 22x21.5x22 for $3.68. There are three Lowe's locations in Nashville. Lowe's also sells other moving supplies like moving blankets, stretch wrap, and packing tape.

Target

Target sells cardboard moving boxes in Nashville in sizes from 16x12x12 for $1.99 to 24x16x19 for $2.99. There are three Target locations in Nashville that sell moving boxes. Target also carries moving supplies like packing wrap, bubble cushion, and glass packing kits.

Extra Space Storage

Find reliable moving boxes in Nashville at your nearest Extra Space Storage location, with boxes ranging from 16.6x12.5x12.5 for $2.69 to 24x18x24 for $5.99. There are ten Extra Space Storage locations in Nashville that sell moving boxes and other packing and moving supplies—like protective covers, tape, bubble cushion, and more.

S&S Pack-N-Ship

You can find plenty of moving boxes in Nashville at S&S Pack-N-Ship, with 20 different size options. Nashville has one S&S Pack-N-Ship location, selling moving boxes and supplies like tape, packing peanuts, and bubble cushion. For more information on pricing and sizes, contact them directly or visit their location.

Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Nashville

Once you're finished unpacking and organizing your new home, consider reselling or donating your boxes on Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle to pass them along to someone else who needs them. Alternatively, take them to your nearest recycling center in Nashville or put them out for curbside pickup!

City of Nashville Recycling Drop-Off Sites

The City of Nashville recycling drop-off sites accept cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like packing paper. Avoid bagging your recyclables, and make sure to flatten cardboard before putting it in the drop-off bin. Most sites are open 24 hours a day, but make sure to check your closest drop-off site for their hours. Find the City of Nashville drop-off sites at locations like 7650 Coley Davis Dr, 3500 Old Clarksville Hwy, and more.

Greif Recycling Nashville

Greif Recycling Nashville—technically located in neighboring La Vergne—accepts cardboard moving boxes and packing paper. Call ahead to find out if there are any fees or specific drop-off rules. Their hours are typically Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find Greif Recycling Nashville at 139 Industrial Blvd.

City of Nashville Curbside Recycling

The City of Nashville Curbside Recycling Program, offered by the city's Department of Waste Services, accepts corrugated cardboard boxes and other moving supplies like packing paper. The City requires residents to flatten their cardboard boxes and separate items into their designated bins before placing them inside. Be sure to place your cart by the curb or alley by 6 a.m. on your collection day, with the arrow pointing toward the street. Pick-up typically occurs between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

In Nashville, TN, the best time to find free moving boxes is early in the morning after stores unpack new shipments. Midweek visits—such as Tuesday or Wednesday mornings—tend to offer the largest selection before recycling pickups occur.

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

It’s not advised to take boxes from dumpsters in Nashville without permission. Most dumpsters are private property, so it’s better to ask staff members or use neighborhood exchange boards to find free moving boxes.

Does Extra Space Storage sell moving boxes and supplies in Nashville, TN?

Yes, Extra Space Storage locations across Nashville sell moving boxes, tape, and protective materials that simplify the packing process. Buying on-site ensures you’re using high-quality moving supplies designed to safeguard your belongings.

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

Extra Space Storage in Nashville carries several box sizes:

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

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

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

• Wardrobe Boxes: For hanging and protecting garments.

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

These moving box options make packing more efficient and protect your Nashville belongings.

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Getting ready to move? Get helpful moving resources with Extra Space Storage's moving hub, and find a variety of moving boxes and supplies available for in-store pickup at storage facilities in Nashville!