How to Get Rid of Moving Boxes

While the number of boxes you need can vary depending on the size of your home and the number of items you have, cardboard moving boxes are the standard means to pack and transport belongings safely during relocation. However, once the move is complete, you have yet another issue you need to deal with: getting rid of these cardboard boxes.

If left alone, cardboard boxes can take up space and create unnecessary clutter in one’s home. And if disposed of improperly reusable material goes to waste, becoming hazardous waste and causing environmental harm. The right way to dispose of cardboard moving boxes is through recycling. However, a better option would be to rent moving boxes. 

With Stack Moves, you do not need to bother with getting rid of cardboard moving boxes, as we offer durable and affordable moving boxes for rent. We deliver these moving boxes to your homes and come for pick up once you are done. Our goal is to make your next move stress-free, more efficient, and eco-friendly. Schedule your move with us today!

In this blog, we will talk about how to get rid of moving boxes, as well as introduce you to some more eco-friendly alternatives to cardboard boxes! We will also share tips for efficient packing. 

8 Ways How to Get Rid of Moving Boxes

Before you buy cardboard boxes for your move, you should think carefully about what you can do with them after you have arrived at your new home. In general, there are 8 ways in which you reuse or recycle your used cardboard boxes:

• Reuse your moving boxes
• Recycle your moving boxes
• Find community recycling programs
• Give away or donate moving boxes
• Use online platforms
• Sell moving boxes
• Give your boxes to moving companies
• DIY projects for your boxes

1. Reuse your Moving Boxes

After relocating, you can reuse your empty moving boxes by using them to organize items within your home. They can be great for storing seasonal decorations, clothing, or extra household items. 

Typically, you should label these boxes for easy identification. It also helps to stack them neatly in closets, garages, or under beds to avoid cluttering the living spaces. 

2. Recycle your Moving Boxes

Many people feel intimidated by this option because they have never had to recycle cardboard boxes before and are unsure of how to go about it. However, this is one of the easiest ways to deal with your leftover cardboard boxes. You can do this by looking for a local recycling center that accepts cardboard boxes. If you’re in Las Vegas, you should check out Champion Recycling, while those in Dallas can use Recycle Revolution, for example. 

Before taking your cardboard boxes to the recycling centers, flatten them to save space. You should also ensure that they are dry and free from plastic tape. 

3. Find Community Recycling Programs

Getting rid of your unused boxes shouldn’t be a hassle if you live in communities that offer recycling programs. Typically, many communities offer recycling programs that even come with curbside pickup for cardboard boxes. 

To get started, check with your local waste management company for details. Then, sign up for these programs. 

4. DIY Projects for Your Boxes

Using your free cardboard boxes for DIY projects is another great way to get rid of moving boxes. You can transform boxes into creative projects like playhouses for small children, storage solutions, or even compost bins. 

Look up simple DIY instructions online for inspiration and step-by-step guides.

5. Use Online Platforms

Often, people use online platforms like Craigslist or Freecycle to give away free moving boxes. When using these platforms, be sure to create detailed listings with photos and specify the box sizes. This makes it easier for people to decide when searching for moving boxes. 

6. Sell Moving Boxes

If you would rather make money from your used moving boxes, you should sell them off. You can do this by listing your empty boxes on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or other online marketplaces. 

Research similar listings to price your boxes competitively and provide clear descriptions and photos. This gives you a good chance of selling them off. 

7. Give Your Boxes to Moving Companies

To get rid of your moving boxes, you can give them to a moving company. Reach out to local moving companies in your community, as some may buy used boxes. 

When speaking with them, discuss the condition and quality of the boxes. Then, arrange a convenient time for pickup or drop-off. 

8. Give Away or Donate Moving Boxes

Donating or giving away your unused moving boxes is one of the best ways to get rid of them. Check if friends or family members need moving boxes for their own moves. 

You can make it easy by offering to drop the boxes off for them. You could also arrange for pickup at a convenient location. 

Where to Sell Used Moving Boxes

If you’re looking to get rid of used moving boxes while making some extra money, selling them is a great option. Many people prefer buying cheap boxes instead of purchasing new ones, especially for short-term use.

Here’s how you can sell your sturdy boxes and ensure they don’t go to waste.

1. Online Marketplaces

Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are excellent places to list your used moving boxes. Create an ad describing the condition of your cardboard boxes, whether they are flattened boxes, bulk quantities, or if you have any other packing materials included. Highlight their durability, size, and suitability for moving or storage. By offering reliable and affordable boxes, you can attract buyers quickly.

2. Neighborhood and Community Groups

Post in local online groups or neighborhood programs about your used boxes. Many people in your area may be looking for free moving boxes or affordable options for their upcoming move. This approach is both eco-friendly and convenient, as it helps reduce waste and benefits your community.

3. Local Businesses and Moving Companies

Reach out to local businesses or a nearby moving company. Businesses that ship items often need packing materials, and some moving companies may purchase used boxes to provide cheap boxes to their customers. Make sure the boxes are in good shape and free of excessive duct tape or damage.

4. Animal Shelters and Charities

Some charities and animal shelters might buy cardboard boxes for their operations, while others may use them for storage or as makeshift beds for animals. Offering your boxes to such organizations could help you sell them in bulk while supporting a good cause.

5. U-Haul Box Exchange Program

The U-Haul Box Exchange is a program where you can post your used moving boxes for sale. Many people use this platform to get cheap, reliable boxes because it saves them both time and money. This platform is ideal for selling larger quantities of sturdy boxes.

6. Grocery Stores and Local Recycling Centers

While grocery stores and local recycling centers are great for donating or recycling, some stores may also purchase clean, flattened boxes for their own use. Check with nearby businesses to see if they are interested in buying your used moving boxes.

The Best Moving Solution in 2025

Often, there is a great debate on whether to go with plastic or cardboard bins for one’s move and which is the more sustainable option. Given that in 2019, over 62 million tons of cardboard ended up in landfills, buying single-use cardboard boxes is steadily falling out of favor. At Stack Moves, we offer durable plastic bins that can be used multiple times, reducing the environmental impact of your move and making your move sustainable. 

With years of experience in the moving industry, Stack Moves is dedicated to providing top-notch service and making your moving process stress-free. Our moving box calculator can help you determine the right number of boxes and the necessary materials, such as dollies and labels, to handle your move efficiently.

Where to Find Moving Boxes?

If you’re looking for affordable and reliable moving boxes for your next move, there are various routes you can take. For example, you can purchase bulk moving boxes from online retailers like Amazon, U-Haul, and Walmart. You can also get boxes for free from local grocery stores, bookstores, or online community groups like Freecycle or Craigslist. 

However, we at Stack Moves believe renting moving boxes is a better option. It completely avoids the hassle of disposing of boxes after your move. Additionally, as they are not made of cardboard, our moving boxes are a more durable, convenient, and eco-friendly moving solution.

Tips for Efficient Packing

Packing efficiently is key to a stress-free move. By following the simple tips we will share, you can minimize the number of moving boxes needed, reduce clutter, and make the entire packing process easier.

Declutter Before Packing

Decluttering before packing helps reduce the number of cardboard boxes you need, saving space and money. It also ensures that you only move items you truly need and use.

We recommend going through your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, consider whether it’s worth keeping. Then, to streamline the process, separate items into piles for keeping, donating, and discarding. We recommend donating scarcely used items and discarding broken or used items.

Use Efficient Packing Methods

One helpful packing method when packing moving boxes is to label boxes. You should clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to to make unpacking easier. 

Furthermore, pack heavier items first. To prevent damage, heavier items should be at the bottom of the boxes, and lighter items should be on top. It also helps to fill gaps in the boxes. Use soft items like socks or newspapers to fill gaps and keep items from shifting during transit. Most importantly, use packing materials that can be easily disposed of or reused.

Want to Get Rid of Moving Boxes?

Getting rid of moving boxes is one of the biggest challenges that comes with using cardboard boxes for moving. You can get rid of them through reusing, recycling, donating, selling, etc. However, renting moving boxes is the most sustainable and convenient solution. 

At Stack Moves, we offer eco-friendly and durable moving boxes for rent. Our goal is to help you with a hassle-free move. Schedule your move with us today!