9 Best Places to Get Free & Cheap Moving Boxes in Youngstown, OH

Moving within or out of Youngstown soon? Whether you're moving a short distance or across the country, costs can add up quicker than you might expect. Fortunately, you can save money by finding free or low-cost moving boxes near you. Discover the best places to look for affordable and free moving boxes in Youngstown below!

Should You Buy or Get Free Moving Boxes?

As you plan your move, you'll need to figure out whether you want to purchase new moving boxes or search for free, used ones. Both options come with advantages and disadvantages.

If you're moving last minute, buying new moving boxes is typically the more convenient option, as you can find them at a variety of stores near you. Plus, you'll have a wider selection, allowing you to choose the sizes and types of boxes that best suit your items. New boxes are also guaranteed to be durable and uniform in size, making them easier to pack, label, and load onto your moving truck.

However, finding used boxes for free may be the better choice if you're moving on a tight budget. In addition to being more cost-effective, reusing old boxes is also better for the environment.

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Where to Get Free Moving Boxes in Youngstown

You can find free Youngstown moving boxes through online marketplaces, as well as at local liquor stores, grocery stores, recycling centers, and more. Here are the best places to get free boxes near you!

Online Exchanges in Youngstown

Online marketplaces are some of the best places to get free moving boxes in Youngstown. Browse through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor, or Freecycle to see if anyone is giving away free or low-cost boxes near you. You can also request to join local groups like Youngstown Buy, Sell, Trade, Youngstown, Ohio Buy, Sell, or Trade, A Youngstown Market Place, or Youngstown-area Buy, Sell, Trade to connect with neighbors selling used moving supplies. When picking up boxes from strangers, meet in a public place during the day and bring a friend along for your safety. Or consider making a post on your personal account to see if your friends or family members have any boxes to spare from recent deliveries or moves.

Liquor Stores in Youngstown

Liquor stores are a great option for finding free, high-quality moving boxes in Youngstown. Liquor store boxes are known for being heavy-duty, and some even come with built-in dividers—ideal for packing fragile items like dishes and wine glasses. Contact liquor stores like A & C Southway Beverage, One Stop Shop, or Gino's Drive Thru to see if they have any boxes available and could set some aside for you.

Grocery Stores in Youngstown

Grocery store boxes are another reliable moving option. These boxes tend to be sturdy and come in a range of sizes, allowing you to safely transport a variety of household items. Reach out to stores near you like Save A Lot, Sparkle Market, or Giant Eagle to see if they'd be willing to save some boxes for you to pick up. Before taking any boxes home with you, inspect them for stains, food remnants, and signs of pests. Additionally, use banana boxes with caution, as they have large ventilation holes that smaller belongings could slip through.

Recycling Centers & Dumpsters in Youngstown

Some dumpsters and recycling sites in Youngstown—such as the Mahoning County Drop-Off Recycling Centers—may have cardboard boxes, but it's best to call ahead to ensure you can take them. Check all boxes for stains, evidence of pests, and structural integrity before using them to pack your items. Some boxes may have already been broken down, so you'll likely need to use tape for added reinforcement.

Other Stores & Retailers in Youngstown

You may also be able to get free boxes from other stores near you. Many local retailers receive regular shipments, so they're often willing to give away empty boxes for free if you call ahead. Contact chains like Big Lots or local stores like Campbell Hardware & Supply and Star Supply Bargain Outlet to see if they have the boxes you need.

Where to Buy Cheap Moving Boxes in Youngstown

Self storage facilities, packing supply stores, and big-box retailers are some of the best places to buy moving boxes near you. Prices typically vary from $1.12 to $5.99, depending on seller and box type.

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

Walmart

The city's single Walmart location on Goldie Rd offers reliable moving boxes in sizes ranging from 17x11x12 for $1.12 to 27x15x17 for $2.26. Walmart in Youngstown also sells other helpful packing supplies, including packing tape, moving blankets, and stretch film.

Target

At Target, find affordable boxes varying in size from 16x12x12 for $1.99 to 24x16x19 for $3.99. There are two Target locations near Youngstown—in Boardman and Niles—that carry moving boxes, plus other essentials like packing paper, tape, and more.

Extra Space Storage

Get high-quality moving boxes sized from 16.6x12.5x12.5 for $2.69 to 24x18x24 for $5.99 at Extra Space Storage in Youngstown. There are three Extra Space Storage locations in Youngstown where you can purchase cardboard boxes, along with bubble wrap, mattress bags, dish protection kits, and other affordable moving supplies.

Send It Packin'

Send It Packin' offers over 50 different cardboard box sizes at affordable prices. At the city's single Send It Packin' location, you can also pick up tape guns, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and more. For more details on box sizes and prices, give them a call.

Where to Recycle Moving Boxes in Youngstown

Once you've settled into your new home, reduce clutter—and waste—by finding an eco-friendly way to get rid of your moving boxes. Consider selling or giving away gently-used boxes through online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Or take advantage of one of the convenient Youngstown recycling options below!

Mahoning County Drop-Off Recycling Centers

Mahoning County Drop-Off Recycling Centers accept cardboard moving boxes, plus other moving supplies like newspaper and packing paper. Make sure to flatten your boxes before dropping them off. Find Mahoning County Drop-Off Recycling Centers at the following locations throughout Youngstown:

• Boys & Girls Club of Youngstown at 2105 Oak Hill Ave; open daily from sunrise to sunset

• Four Seasons Flea Market at 3000 McCartney Rd; open daily from sunrise to sunset

• Oak Hill Renaissance Place at 345 Oak Hill Ave; open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Youngstown State University Drop-Off Center

The Youngstown State University Drop-Off Center is open to the public, giving residents a convenient option for recycling cardboard boxes, packing paper, newspaper, and more. Flatten all boxes before placing them into the bin. Their hours are typically daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Find the Youngstown State University Drop-Off Center in Smoky Hollow—at the corner of Harrison St and Adams St.

Clover Recycling

Clover Recycling accepts cardboard, along with moving materials like newspaper, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, styrofoam, and more. All recyclables must be clean. If you're recycling newspaper, remove it from the bag before placing it into the bin. Their hours are typically Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Find Clover Recycling at 1411 W Market St in nearby Warren, OH.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

In Youngstown, OH, early mornings during the middle of the week tend to be the best time to get free boxes from local stores. Stores typically unpack and restock shipments following the weekend rush, so they may have leftover boxes they'd be willing to give you. For the best luck, it's always a good idea to call ahead before stopping by.

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

Retrieving boxes from store dumpsters or recycling bins in Youngstown without permission is not recommended, as this may be considered trespassing on private property. Instead, ask a store manager if they could set aside some boxes for you—or consider browsing through online exchange sites to find free boxes near you.

Does Extra Space Storage sell moving boxes and supplies in Youngstown, OH?

Extra Space Storage sells a variety of moving supplies in Youngstown, including sturdy cardboard boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, mattress bags, and more. Purchasing directly from a self storage facility helps ensure high-quality materials for your upcoming move.

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

Extra Space Storage in Youngstown carries a variety of moving box sizes to accommodate your unique needs, including:

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

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

• Large Boxes (4.5–6 cu ft): Perfect for light, bulky belongings like comforters, pillows, towels, and more.

• Wardrobe Boxes: Designed to help you easily transport clothing—and prevent wrinkles.

• File Boxes: Built to keep paperwork, photos, and other documents organized and secure.

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