So it’s time to pack up your house ready to move! But where can you get free packing boxes that are suitable for moving house?
Obtaining free or cheap second-hand moving boxes is one way to save money when moving house, and there are a number of hidden sources you may not know about.
There is a proviso though – if these boxes are flimsy, or not sized correctly, they can end up costing you more in the long run. Stacking odd-sized boxes is more time consuming than stacking uniformly sized boxes, so if you’re paying for a removalist, this can add to their labour time and subsequent cost. Not to mention, if the bottom falls out of a dodgy box, it can damage your precious goods!
Ideally you should be searching for pre-loved boxes that are specifically designed for moving house, and that are in good condition. Fortunately, there are a number of places in Melbourne where you can find them.
Many people are only too happy to pass on their moving boxes once they’ve finished moving house. You’ll often find these boxes available for free on local Facebook pages. Just head to Facebook and search for community, buy/swap/sell or ‘good karma’ pages in your area. Then search the recent posts, or post your own request for moving boxes. It’s a good idea to start your hunt several months ahead of time, as you can never be sure when boxes will become available. Also, keep an eye out for pre-loved bubble wrap or packing paper.
Alternatively, some packing box suppliers sell or hire out pre-used moving boxes at a discount. To find one in your area, Google ‘second hand packing boxes’. You’ll want to make sure that these boxes are still in excellent condition and able to hold the loads they are designed for.
One final option is to actually buy your boxes new, from a place where you can return them to receive a cash-back. Just ask your local box supplier if this is a service they offer. The benefit of this approach is that you get high quality boxes while still making a saving.
Wherever you choose to get fee boxes, we highly recommend sticking to proper moving boxes that are still in good condition, with closeable lids intact. We also recommend you use quality packing tape to reinforce them across the bottom and sides when closing them up, and that you use ample padding materials to cushion the contents. You can read more packing tips for moving house in Melbourne here.
Would you like to make the whole packing and moving process as easy as possible? Have a chat to Pinder Tower Movers in Melbourne. Not only can they supply all your packaging needs, they can take care of the actual packing plus removals too.
Where To Find Packing Boxes Near Me
For second-hand packing boxes, check your local neighbourhood Buy/Swap/Sell or community page on Facebook. To find a packing box supplier, search on Google Maps for ‘moving box supplies near me’. If you’re in Melbourne’s east, Pinder Tower Movers can supply you with high-quality moving boxes and packaging supplies.
What Type And How Many Packing Boxes Should I Get?
Different sized and strength boxes are best for different types of objects. For example, it’s best to have smaller, heavy-duty boxes for packing heavy books and crockery, while large, lighter boxes are suitable for bedding. Here’s our go-to guide on what size packing boxes are best for your needs, and how many packing boxes you’ll need to pack up your entire house.
Do Post Offices Sell Boxes?
Australia Post Offices sell boxes that are suitable for mailing small to medium sized objects, but they don’t sell packing boxes large enough to contain most household goods. However, you can buy packaging supplies like rolls of bubble wrap and good quality packing tape at most Australia Post outlets, or in their online store.
Does Bunnings Have Free Boxes?
Bunnings stores can be a good source of odd boxes that are leftover from their goods packaging. You can generally find them at the front of the store. Some of these boxes are lidded, others are open. Some may be useful for removals, however, others may not be strong enough.
It’s worth noting that having odd-sized or open topped boxes will add to the time it takes to move your goods, because they are harder to stack and move. For this reason, we don’t recommend you use Bunnings boxes for your whole move. Bunnings do, however, sell a wide range of proper packing boxes and packaging supplies.
Moving house in Melbourne? Pinder Tower Movers have over 40 years of experience and a great reputation. They will help make your move stress-free and cost-efficient! Contact Pinder Tower Movers for a no-obligation quote.