When it comes to stocking up on packing supplies, you really don’t have to break the bank. With enough foresight and planning, you can source plenty of cheap or free boxes and packing materials. Here is how to go about it:
Prioritise strength over cost
If your moving boxes, tape and wrapping materials are of poor quality, you risk damaging items during transport or storage. While there are plenty of free and cheap options for obtaining boxes, your priority should be ensuring that they are up to the job.
We recommend double-walled boxes, and that’s not just because we stock them! This type of box is not only sturdy, it stacks really well, both in the removal van and in your storage room, helping you make the most of your storage space while saving time.
Added together, this will result in a comparatively stress-free and organised move.
Where to buy packing supplies for moving: good quality moving boxes and packaging
A good place to start looking is your chosen self storage company. Most will provide an on-site packaging store. If you’re storing your belongings or goods with us, you can save time by ordering your packaging materials online and using our ‘click and collect’ service.
If you’re moving house, your removal company is another option. They will often include boxes and packaging materials in your costs.
Alternative sources include well-known online or high street retailers such as Amazon, Argos and B&Q. Make sure you read the reviews and compare products accurately. For example, bulk box orders may come in different sizes and quantities (5, 10, 20, etc.) Choosing sustainable options, where available, will reduce your environmental footprint.
Where to get cheap packing supplies
If you’re on a tight budget, or prefer to support the circular economy, there are several online marketplaces that deal in second hand items. These include Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Gumtree and Freecycle.
The main risk with reused boxes is the potential for damage. This might not always be obvious (e.g., if liquids have been spilled inside in the past and have since dried).
How to get free packing supplies
If you have enough lead time, you may not have to spend anything at all on your packing supplies! Start with your friends and family members. Do they have any boxes, packing tape or bubble wrap they want to get rid of? This will get you off to a good head start.
Next, ask at local convenience stores and supermarkets, especially later in the evening when they are re-stocking. Banana boxes are particularly robust, but make sure you cover over the gaps. Popping in to the receptions of nearby offices and industrial parks is often worthwhile for getting your hands on free and sturdy boxes.
Another option is to simply type ‘free moving boxes’ into the search bar on Facebook and click ‘Groups’. Investigate the various community groups and post a message.
What to avoid when sourcing packaging materials for self storage
As we’ve mentioned throughout this article, boxes should always be robust and intact, especially if you are moving house or office. The last thing you want is for boxes to fall apart mid-move, slowing you down and potentially damaging your possessions.
Make sure you source enough boxes so that you’re not forced into overfilling them. This can lead to crushed contents and even injury. As a rough guide, you will need around 40 boxes for a two-bedroom house, 60 for a three-bedroom house and 80 if your home has four bedrooms.
We also recommend you don’t use printed newspaper when wrapping items. While plain newspaper is fine, the ink in newsprint can often run and cause staining, especially in wet weather.
Bonus tips for organising your move
Although it may be tempting to manage all the packing yourself, getting the professionals in will minimise the chances of having to re-pack during your move, saving time and hassle.
If you have any queries regarding the packing process, your self storage team can often answer them. They’ve probably come across most situations in the past.
Stocking up on packaging materials needn’t cost a fortune. The key to keeping your costs down is planning ahead. We recommend starting two to three weeks in advance of your move to avoid a last minute scramble. That way, you can mix and match free, cheap and purpose-made materials without compromising on quality. The result will be a smooth, safe and stress-free move.
