If you're preparing for a move or need to pack items, one of the first things you'll ask 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 points can provide you with good condition free moving boxes. In this guide, we review the 10 best 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 get enough boxes for a complete move.
1. Industrial estates
Large quantities of empty cardboard boxes are generated in industrial areas. 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 different sizes.
2. Shopping centers
Shopping centers receive merchandise every day. Ask the loading or security staff for surplus 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 salvaged. Ask the workers, and they will tell you where they leave available boxes.
4. Grocery and neighborhood stores
Bakeries, pharmacies, tobacconists, or bookstores often have light boxes that arrive with products. They are perfect for small or lightweight items. In addition, as they are 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 their 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 search?
If you don't have time or need specific boxes, the most practical option is to buy cardboard boxes online. Here are the most recommended options:
1. Specialized packaging websites
On online stores like TeleCajas, you'll find packs of sturdy moving boxes in different sizes. Advantage: clear prices, fast delivery, and specific measurements for every need.
2. Amazon
A 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 |
| Neighborhood Stores | Free, clean boxes | Few units |
| Online Stores | 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 usually higher than in specialized online stores.
The advantage of large stores is immediacy: you can go and pick up the boxes the same day. However, if you can wait 24-48 hours, a specialized online cardboard box store 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 homepage with anchor "tienda online especializada en cajas de cartón".
If you end up deciding to buy new boxes...
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:
- 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 large city, you can check pickup options in your area: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville or Bilbao.
If you prefer new and sturdy boxes — that don't smell like fruit or fall apart due to humidity — at TeleCajas they have cardboard boxes starting from €0.15 per unit and complete moving packs starting from €19.99. 24-hour shipping and no minimum order.
For a complete guide to all available packaging materials, check out 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