Free moving boxes and save money on your move

Imagine you're standing in the middle of cardboard chaos, your partner is rolling their eyes and your removal men are already swearing. Welcome to my moving hell!

The last time I moved, I did pretty much everything wrong and ended up with my wallet crying and my head pounding. I've learned from this and here you can find out how to get free moving boxes and master your move stress-free.

Why do you need moving boxes?

Before we go into detail, here are a few reasons why good moving boxes are essential:

1. Stackable: moving boxes are easy to stack, which makes transportation and storage easier.
2. Sturdy: They are more robust than plastic bags or bin liners and protect your belongings better.
3. Clear: You can easily label them and categorize the contents.
4. Standardized: The uniform size makes it easier to plan transportation.

Buying, renting or getting moving boxes for free: the pros and cons

Buying: Quickly organized, but expensive

Buying new moving boxes is easy, but expensive. Especially if you need a lot of boxes, and let's be honest, you always need more boxes than you think, it quickly adds up. What's more, the boxes often end up in the cardboard collection after a single use - not exactly environmentally friendly.

Renting: A cheaper alternative

Many removal companies offer rental boxes and crates. This is often cheaper than buying and more environmentally friendly. But be careful! I can tell you from my own experience: after a stressful day of moving, all you want to do is relax. The last thing you want to think about is unpacking and returning the rented boxes. In my case, this led to additional costs because I returned the boxes and crates too late. Think carefully about whether you really have the energy for it - otherwise rental boxes end up being more expensive.

Free moving boxes: The clever solution

Finding free moving boxes takes some time, but it's worth it. You save a lot of money and it's environmentally friendly. Moving boxes can easily be used for more than one move.

How many moving boxes do you need? This is how you calculate it

Before you go on the hunt for free boxes, you should know how many you need.Here are our guidelines:

• 1-bedroom apartment: 20-30 boxes
• 2-room apartment: 30-40 boxes
• 3-room apartment: 40-60 boxes
• 4-room apartment: 60-80 boxes
• House: 80-120 boxes

7 ideas for free moving boxes

Now it's getting exciting! Here are our best tips on how to get free moving boxes and save a lot of money:

1. Ask friends and family

Used moving boxes are often stored in basements or attics. Ask around among your friends - maybe someone has just moved and can give you their boxes.

Tip: Post your search for boxes on social media or WhatsApp to your friends.

2. Check supermarkets and retailers

Many stores regularly have empty boxes that they need to dispose of. Banana boxes are particularly popular - they are sturdy and a good size. Just ask the staff in a friendly manner.

Tip: Your chances are best in the morning, as the fresh goods are delivered early in the morning. Electronics stores are also a good choice, larger devices are delivered in very sturdy boxes.

3. Browse online portals

Used moving boxes are often given away on platforms such as Ricardo, Tutti, RonOrp or Facebook Marketplace.

Tip: Shortly after the official moving dates, your chances are very high. In Switzerland, the dates are the end of March and the end of September.

4. Contact moving companies

Some removal companies give away old boxes that can no longer be rented out, but can be used again with a few little tricks. It may be worth giving them a call!

5. Inquire with offices and companies

Companies often receive deliveries in large, sturdy boxes.Ask local companies if they have any left over.They are often happy if they don't have to dispose of them themselves.

Tip: IT companies and printers often have particularly high-quality boxes.

6. Check universities and schools

Educational institutions regularly receive office supplies. It is particularly worth asking at the start of the semester.

7. Visit bookshops and libraries

Books are heavy, which is why bookshops and libraries often have sturdy cardboard boxes. They are perfect for books and other heavy items.

Check and recycle used moving boxes

Hooray, you've found your moving boxes. If you are using second-hand moving boxes, please note the following points:

1. Check stability

Not every used cardboard box is suitable for another move. Here are some checkpoints:

• Corners and edges: Pay particular attention to the corners and edges. If they are torn or badly worn, the box could buckle under load.
• Floor: The bottom is particularly important. Press lightly on it - if it gives way, the cardboard is unsuitable.
• Folding lines: You can tell from the fold lines whether the cardboard has been folded many times. If they are badly worn, the cardboard could tear at these points.

Tip: Hold the cardboard up to the light. If the light shines through, the cardboard may be damaged in these areas.

2. Recognize moisture damage

Cartons that have become damp are no longer as stable:

• Discoloration: Dark spots or discoloration are a clear sign of moisture damage.
• Odor: If the box smells musty, it has probably been damp for a long time.
• Rippling: Waves or dents in the carton indicate moisture.

Tip: Even if the cardboard is dry again, its structure may be weakened. Only use it for lightweight items such as jackets.

3. Clean and disinfect

Used cardboard boxes can harbor dust, dirt or, in the worst case, uninvited insects:

• Vacuuming: Vacuum the box thoroughly, especially in the corners.
• Wipe down: Wipe the inside with a slightly damp cloth.Then let the box dry completely.
• Sunbathing: Place the box in the sun for a few hours.UV light kills bacteria and drives away any insects.

Tip: A little baking soda in the box absorbs unpleasant odors.

4. Repair and reinforce

Even slightly damaged boxes can often be saved:

• Reinforce the floor: Tape the floor crosswise with wide parcel tape.
• Repair cracks: Small cracks can be patched with tape from both sides.
• Protect corners: Stick cardboard or thick cardboard corner protectors on corners that are particularly exposed.

Tip: Use waterproof adhesive tape. It holds better and also protects against moisture.

5. Label correctly

Label your boxes. Correct labeling saves time and nerves:

• Remove old labels: Stick paper over old labels or inscriptions.
• Contents and destination: Write on at least two sides of the box what is inside and which room the items are for.
• Arrow pointing upwards: Mark which side should be facing up.
• Caution notes: Mark fragile contents clearly.

Tip: Use different colors for different rooms. This makes unloading even easier.

Practical alternatives to moving boxes

If you can't find free boxes, there are other options:

1. Plastic boxes: Robust and reusable, but more expensive to buy.
2. Suitcases, bags and rucksacks: Use what you already have.
3. Laundry baskets: Ideal for clothes and bedding.
4. Garbage bags and shopping bags: Inexpensive, but less sturdy. Good for clothes and light items.

Move sustainably: What to do with your boxes?

After the move, you are faced with the question: What to do with all the boxes? Here are some ideas:

1. Pass them on: Offer them for free in online classifieds.
2. Store them: If you have space, fold them up and store them for the next move.
3. Use them creatively: Turn them into toys for children or pets.
4. Recycle: If all else fails, put them in the cardboard collection.

Tip: When you store the boxes, add silica gel packets. They absorb moisture and keep the boxes in good condition for longer. Check whether your cellar is too damp to store the boxes on the floor.

Ready for a stress-free move?

Here are some more tips! Now you know how to get free moving boxes and are already a big step ahead. Next, read our checklist and start planning as early as possible so that you can move into your new home stress-free: Moving checklist: 13 steps to a successful move. 

Lack of space in your new home? We have the solution!

You often only realize when you move in: Oops, not everything fits in the new place!

Don't worry, we have the perfect solution for you.

• Flexible rental period: Whether short or long term, you decide!
• Different sizes: From 1m3 boxes to XXL storage space
• 24/7 access: Your things whenever you need them
• Top security: Your belongings are in good hands with us