If you’re looking for where to buy packing boxes for moving, there are numerous places you can get them from. Check out this handy guide for the best value.
The below moving boxes guide outlines the disadvantages and benefits of the different providers. Find out what to consider so you get the right boxes at the right time and for the right price.
Your local DIY store
The most convenient place to purchase moving boxes may be your local hardware store. Specifically Mitre 10 and Bunnings have a good range of boxes, which come in both single and double walled.
Mitre 10 carry four sizes – small, medium, large and extra large. The medium double walled box is one of my favourites as it’s narrow width makes it perfect for packing spirits.
Bunnings carry 3 heavy duty sizes and 4 light duty sizes. What I like about the Bunnings selection is that they have tea chest and half tea chest sizes which you can use with the glass carton dividers, making it super easy to pack glassware properly. Bunnings also have a porta robe box for holing hanged items, but to be honest I found it a bit flimsy and annoying to assemble. I prefer getting my porta robes from my wholesale suppliers (your moving company should be able to supply these) as they are easy to assemble and robust meaning you can reuse them if you wish.
Advantage
- Convenient, most towns have a local hardware store
Disadvantages
- Limited range.
- Can work out expensive.
Storage facilities
Most storage facilities have a decent range of moving boxes and they may include them for free if you are storing at the facility. Storage facilities tend to carry more unusual box shapes and sizes, such as picture boxes, archive boxes, wine boxes, porta robes and linen boxes. Purcahsing the moving packs can be a cost effective way to get a variety of boxes. If you’re buying them individually, the lowest price I’ve found is at National Storage.
Advantages
- Large range.
- May get them free or discounted if you’re storing at the facility.
Disadvantages
- You may not have a facility close by.
- The shop may not be open on the day or at the time you need the boxes.
Moving company
Your moving company will have a basic range of moving boxes and if they are located nearby, this may be the most convenient way to get your moving boxes. They may also offer a refund for used boxes they can reuse.
Advantages
- Convenient. If they’re located close by, they may drop them off to your door.
- They can pass wholesale pricing on to you.
Disadvantages
- You may want to start packing before you book your moving company.
- They may not have all the supplies you need.
Where to buy packing boxes for moving – shop online
There are numerous online providers of moving boxes including plastic reusable boxes such as Cleverbox and those that provide traditional cardboard boxes.
My top pick for best price when purchasing bulk cardboard boxes is Packaging Products.
Advantage
- Convenient. You order online and they deliver and pick up (the plastic reusables) from your door.
Disadvantages
- Your order may be subject to delivery charges and delivery delays.
- Plastic boxes are a standard size, so you may find that some items don’t fit into the box and you end up having to source additional cardboard boxes.
Second hand boxes
I love reusing packing boxes. The best place to source used boxes is by keeping an eye out on your local community social media pages for people wanting to pass them on after their move.
You can also purchase second hand boxes from Packaging Recyclers, who are a cardboard recycling specialist and a zero waste company in Auckland. They’ll even buy the boxes back from you when you’re finished.
Advantages
- Free or low cost
- You’ll be doing your bit for the environment
Disadvantage
- If you’re not getting them from a trusted supplier, the condition and quality of the boxes can vary which can be a problem if you are packing precious items or storing them for a long time.
- If you’re looking out for free-bees on community social media, you may not find them at the time you need them.
Purchasing plastic boxes
It can be handy to have a few of your own plastic packing boxes for your move. I like to use these for storing food, toiletries, cleaning products as well as messy garage items as if anything leaks, it won’t impact the integrity of the box or other boxes it’s stacked on when moving or storing.
I normally look out for deals like the ‘buy 1 get 50% off the second’ offers at places like The Warehouse, or you could look in charity shops for second hand boxes. Check out my other posts on how to pack and Packing boxes – what to buy and where to get them.
Move by Design offers bespoke move solutions and can help with the full spectrum of house moving services. If you’d like to know more, get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. We’d love to help make moving a joyful and easy experience for you.
Clare Gregory-Jones
Owner, Move by Design.
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