5 Things to Do With Moving Boxes After You Move
1. Donate Your Used Moving Boxes
Boxes are a much needed resource for many different types of businesses. There’s almost always somebody looking for moving boxes. Call around to local businesses, shelters, schools and nonprofits. You can also post on neighborhood boards (like Facebook or Nextdoor) to see if anyone has an immediate need.
Where to Donate Used Moving Boxes:
- Libraries
- Schools
- Grocery Stores
- Apartment Complexes
- Food Banks
- Animal Shelters
You’ll want to make sure to keep the boxes in a usable condition and refrain from breaking them down. If you can find a business or organization in need, you can feel extra good about donating your boxes to a worthy cause!
2. Recycle Your Boxes
If your boxes were damaged or ripped during your move and are unusable, you can recycle them. To do so, break down the boxes and take them to a local recycling center. Also, a lot of grocery stores or schools will have separate recycling areas outdoors where the public can recycle.
Some cities will even pick up recycling materials upon request. Check in with your local recycling centers to see if they provide similar services. You’ll want to make sure they don’t have any stipulations or costs associated with this service. They may require that boxes be flattened, limited to a certain size or require a specific amount of boxes for pick-up services.
3. Use Moving Boxes at Home
You don’t have to get rid of all your moving boxes. You can use them in your home. Sturdy boxes are perfect for storage and it is always handy to have a surplus of boxes for wrapping presents.
You can even use the boxes for arts and crafts! They’re perfect canvases for painting, shaping and using as drop cloths for other projects. If you have kids, consider transforming the boxes into playhouses, tunnels or dollhouses! Have cats? They love a good box and will surely be extremely pleased if you leave a few around the house for them.
4. Reuse Boxes for a Future Move
If you plan on moving again in a year or two, simply keep your boxes and reuse them when the time comes to pack up. If you flatten them and store them in a cool, dark place they should keep well until you need them again. This will help save you time, hassle and money during your next move.
5. Sell Your Used Moving Boxes
Purchasing new moving boxes is expensive. If you’re looking to recoup some of the money that you spent during the move, consider selling your boxes.
Where to Sell Moving Boxes:
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
- BoxCycle or Container Exchanger (sell for $0.50-1.50 per box)
- Local buy/sell companies
- Friends or family
Hire a Moving Company That Removes Boxes for You
The best way to get rid of moving boxes right after a relocation is to hire a moving company that removes them for you. When you make your move with Wheaton, we offer services from the start to the finish of your move. Your Wheaton moving team will even remove the cardboard boxes after unpacking your belongings. Ready to get started? Contact us today!
