If you're preparing for a move or need to pack items, one of the first things you ask yourself is where to get free cardboard boxes. Before buying new boxes, it's worth exploring free options: supermarkets, stores, greengrocers, second-hand apps, and even recycling centers can provide you with free moving boxes in good condition. In this guide, we review the top 10 places to find them.
💡 Prefer new, quality boxes? Visit our cardboard box collection with 24h shipping and no minimum order — from €0.50/unit.
Where to get free cardboard boxes?
Here's a list of common places to find free boxes in your city. Most are easy to access, and with a little organization, you can gather enough boxes for a complete move.
1. Industrial estates
Industrial areas generate large quantities of empty cardboard boxes. Many companies leave them on the street next to recycling bins. If you go in the morning, you'll have a better chance of finding sturdy boxes of various sizes.
2. Shopping centers
Shopping centers receive merchandise every day. Ask loading or security personnel for spare boxes; it's common for them to give them away. A convenient and nearby option to get free cardboard boxes.
3. Supermarkets
A classic place to find free boxes. Some may be stained or smell like fruit, but many can usually be reused. Ask the workers, and they will tell you where they leave the available boxes.
4. Grocery stores and local shops
Bakeries, pharmacies, tobacconists, or bookstores often have light boxes that arrive with products. They are perfect for small or lightweight items. Plus, being clean boxes, you won't have odor problems.
5. Neighbors or local groups
Another option is to ask in your community, on Facebook groups, Wallapop, or local forums. Many people give away moving boxes after using them, so it's a quick and sustainable way to get them.
Where to buy cardboard boxes if you don't want to look for them?
If you don't have time or need specific boxes, the most practical thing is to buy cardboard boxes online. Here are the most recommended options:
1. Specialized packaging websites
In online stores like TeleCajas, you will find moving packs with sturdy ready-made boxes of different sizes, and the Box Finder by size. Advantage: clear prices, fast delivery, and specific measurements for every need.
2. Amazon
Wide variety of cardboard boxes, with user reviews to help you choose. Ideal if you're looking for fast shipping and many options in one place.
3. Physical stores
Although less common, some local packaging stores sell large cardboard boxes. The advantage is that you can check their quality before buying them.
Summary: where to find free and paid cardboard boxes
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Estates | Free, many units | Irregular sizes |
| Shopping Centers | Free, easy access | Limited hours |
| Supermarkets | Free, good rotation | Odors, stains |
| Local Shops | Free, clean boxes | Few units |
| Online Websites | Variety, convenience | Additional cost |
| Amazon | Fast shipping, reviews | Uneven quality |
| Physical Stores | Check product | Limited availability |
With these options, you now know where to get free cardboard boxes or, if you prefer, where to buy them so they arrive directly at your home without complications.
👉 You might also be interested in: 15 tips for a stress-free move
Is it worth buying boxes at Ikea, Leroy Merlin, or Carrefour?
Many people look for cardboard boxes in large stores like Ikea, Leroy Merlin, or Carrefour. These stores usually have basic moving boxes, but the variety of sizes is very limited, and prices are often higher than in specialized online stores.
The advantage of large stores is immediacy: you can go and take the boxes with you the same day. However, if you can wait 24-48 hours, an online store with moving packs and ready-made boxes offers you more than 200 different sizes at more competitive prices. At TELECAJAS, for example, a standard moving box of 40x30x30 cm costs less than €1 per unit, compared to the €2-3 they usually cost in physical stores.
💡 SEO Effect Captures queries for "cajas carton ikea" (5 imp), "cajas mudanza carrefour" (19 imp, 4 clicks), "cajas embalaje leroy merlin" (4 imp) — all with high CTR. Positions TELECAJAS as the online alternative to physical stores. Contextual link to the home page with anchor "specialized online cardboard box store".
If you decide to buy new boxes after all...
Sometimes free boxes aren't the exact size you need, are damaged, or you simply can't find enough. If you prefer to buy new cardboard boxes, here are the most popular options:
If used ones don't appear, the 40x30x30 cm and 60x40x40 cm cover books and clothes.
- Complete moving packs — boxes + tape + bubble wrap + marker, from €29.90
- Single-wall cardboard boxes for shipping — from €0.50/box
- Large and giant boxes — for duvets, clothes, bulky items
- Double-wall reinforced boxes — for heavy and fragile items
- Calculator: how many boxes do I need? — calculate based on your home
And if you live in a big city, you can check pickup options in your area: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville or Bilbao.
If you prefer new, sturdy boxes — that don't smell like fruit or fall apart due to humidity — at TeleCajas you have moving packs with ready-made boxes and the Box Finder by size. If you are in Seville, you can also stop by for cardboard boxes in Seville. Shipping in 24 hours and no minimum order.
For a complete guide to all available packaging materials, consult our packaging materials guide.
HOLA NECESITO CAJAS DE TODO TAMAÑO , COMO `PUEDES AYUDARME
Caja de carton gratis
Como puedo obtener cajas para mudanza. Gracias
Nesecito como 40 cagas para mi mudanza
Necesito unas 25 cajas para mudanza , gracias