Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 27 2025
If you know about a move months in advance, you may be able to save up boxes from home deliveries and other purchases and move without buying any moving boxes. But most people will end up needing to buy at least a few hauling boxes.
What are your options for getting the containers you need to pack up your stuff? Here are a few top recommendations from Three Movers.
ACE Hardware Moving Boxes
Local hardware stores and chain stores like ACE Hardware typically have plenty of delivery crates for sale, so this may be a better option depending on the stores near you.
Ace Hardware offers delivery boxes in various shapes and sizes. Ace hardware moving containers are known to be sturdy & cost-effective. Ace Hardware also uses recycled content in its hauling crates. Ace Hardware has recently started to provide home delivery services as well. You can also get free shipping services if you are a part of the Ace hardware rewards program. Ace Hardware has locations throughout the USA.
A 24’” X 18” X 18” cardboard corrugated box costs $7.99 per pack at Ace Hardware stores. For 14” X 14” X 14” box of the same type costs $3.99 per pack. You can check the prices of other shifting boxes by Ace Hardware here.
Along with moving boxes, you can also buy other delivery supplies like Shoulder Dolly, Bubble Wrap, Packing paper, Moving blanket, Forearm forklift, etc.
Our professional haulers also love to use hauling crates by Ace Hardware. If you move with us, you’ll not have to pay for hauling boxes. We’ll reuse the moving box that we provide you for the next ship.
Other Good Options For Hauling Materials Like Crates
Online Vendors Like Amazon Or Uline
As you might expect, Amazon has plenty of sellers who provide inexpensive cardboard boxes. Uline is another top vendor that sells shipping supplies and shipping supplies in bulk, and they offer very fast delivery, so that may be a good option. With a bit of Googling, you can find lots of other online vendors that sell moving boxes, too.
Parcel Stores Like FedEx & UPS Stores
If you have a FedEx Store or UPS Store near you, they typically sell a wide variety of packing supplies including crates, packing peanuts or packing air bags, tape, and other such things that you may need while packing.
Note that the USPS (Post Office) is typically not a good choice for bulk crates, as it primarily sells prepaid shipping boxes intended for shipping goods, rather than moving.
Online Classifieds (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Etc.)
If you want to buy used crates for a low cost, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other online classified services like Letgo are a good option. After people move, they often list bulk boxes and other supplies like tape and packing peanuts online for a fraction of the price that new boxes would cost.
Truck & Van Rental Companies
Truck and van rental companies like Penske, Uhaul, and Budget typically sell cardboard boxes and other moving supplies, even if you’re not renting a truck or van.
Some of these services also will rent reusable plastic hauling bins and tubs, which provide better protection for your stuff and are more eco-friendly, since they do not have to be recycled or thrown away after you move. This is usually a bit more expensive than just buying cardboard crates, however.
Home Improvement Stores & Hardware Stores
Most home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, and other such stores have lots of cardboard boxes and packing supplies for sale. This can be a convenient option if you also need to pick up some other home improvement items for your new home.
We Can Provide Shifting Containers & Provisions For Your Dispatch!
Whether you’d prefer to buy your own boxes and pack up your stuff, or get full-service moving from Three Movers where we pack up and unpack your home goods with our boxes and supplies, we’re here to help.
We specialize in local and long-distance moves throughout the entire United States, so don’t wait. If you’re ready to get started, contact us online or give us a call at (888) 202-0036 to get an estimate and schedule your move right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
The top places to buy moving boxes include big-box retailers, moving supply stores, and online marketplaces. National chains offer standardized box sizes, reliable quality, and in-store pickup, while online sellers provide bulk packs and delivery. Key factors to compare are box strength, size variety, price per box, and same-day availability. For larger moves, buying bundled box kits often reduces cost and saves time during packing.
Yes. Home Depot and Lowe’s are among the most popular places to buy moving boxes because they stock heavy-duty boxes, wardrobe boxes, and packing kits year-round. Prices are competitive, and most locations offer same-day pickup. Selection is best for studios to 3-bedroom homes. Availability can vary by store, so checking local inventory helps avoid last-minute shortages during peak moving season.
Buying moving boxes online is convenient for planned moves and larger households. Online retailers offer bulk discounts, uniform sizing, and home delivery, which reduces store trips. This works best when you have 7–14 days before packing begins. Delivery timing, shipping fees, and return policies are the main factors to review. Online ordering pairs well with professional packing timelines or long-distance moves.
Free moving boxes are often available from grocery stores, liquor stores, bookstores, and community listings. These boxes work well for short local moves or temporary storage. Inspect for cleanliness, moisture damage, and structural strength before use. Sizes are inconsistent, which can slow loading and stacking. For fragile items, purchased boxes usually provide better protection and uniform packing.
Apartment moves typically require small and medium boxes for books, kitchen items, and décor, plus a few large boxes for linens. Specialty boxes for TVs or wardrobes help protect fragile items. Studio and one-bedroom moves often use 20–40 boxes, depending on packing habits. Choosing standardized sizes improves loading efficiency, especially when coordinating with a apartment movers service.
Specialty boxes are worth it for items like TVs, mirrors, dishes, and clothing. These boxes reduce breakage risk and speed up packing. While they cost more upfront, they often prevent damage-related replacement costs. Specialty boxes are most useful for fragile items, electronics, and high-value belongings, especially on long-distance or multi-day moves where handling increases.
Most house moves require 40–100 boxes, depending on home size and storage habits. A 2-bedroom home averages 60–70 boxes, while 4-bedroom homes often exceed 90 boxes. Closet contents, garages, and kitchens increase totals quickly. Using pre-built box bundles simplifies planning and pairs well with professional packing support from a full service movers option.
