Moving is a rite of passage in someone’s life that doesn’t have to be the way it’s conventionally portrayed. It’s a challenging process - this has to be said - but with the appropriate arrangements and the right mindset, you’ll be able to get through it smoothly.
Selecting and dividing are keywords. Therefore, cardboard boxes will be your number one allies! Moving simply isn’t possible without them.
Where to find and collect free cardboard boxes? There are many options, including:
- Local Supermarkets
- DIY stores
- Discount shops
- Food Restaurants
- Freecycle
- Local recycling centres
- Opting for Access Box Storage as your London moving & storage service
Free Cardboard Boxes: Ask at the supermarkets & stores
Where to get free cardboard boxes in London? Supermarkets and stores are some of the places where you can easily find and collect cardboard boxes for free.
Supermarket stock is delivered on a daily basis to stores in cardboard boxes: you can ask if they have any large ones in good conditions for you to use.
Try to go to your local supermarket at a time you know won’t be busy, or ask when the next delivery will be and go then.
Boxes from local restaurants
All restaurants get stock delivered in cardboard boxes on a daily basis, so a little trip to your local restaurants can be worth a try. You might be lucky enough to find one really close to where you live.
If you’re a regular, they’ll be even more motivated to get rid of boxes they don’t need. Ensure the boxes don’t have any spillage and try to opt for boxes containing dry items.
Find free cardboard boxes at Freecycle
Freecycle gets you in touch with people who recently moved and don’t need their cardboard boxes anymore. It’s important to check that the boxes are in good condition, as they already endured one (or more) movings.
Local recycling centre
If they’re not re-used, this is where most cardboard boxes end up. You’ll find them flattened down, but they can be strengthened with packaging tape easily to return to their original shape. Just be careful again to look for boxes that are in good condition and clean.
Free boxes from Access Box Storage
Using second-hand cardboard boxes comes with the perk of saving money, but what if you could get new free boxes for free?
If you're moving around London, opting for Access Box Storage mean you'll be able to save money and preserve your items impeccably until they reach your new address.
When you place your storage order with us online, we will deliver your empty boxes (current special offer) to you at the time you have specified. You can schedule your full box collection up to 2 weeks after we have delivered you your empty boxes.
Using old boxes vs new boxes for moving
Whenever you can, always use new, sturdy boxes when you’re packing for storage!
Used ones could have dried spillage, which weakens the box & attracts ants and cockroaches. If you plan ahead, you’ll keep your belongings in boxes for a while, so you want to make sure they won’t be damaged once you open the boxes. Using new boxes is also more aligned with coronavirus hygiene precautions, as sanitising surfaces such as cardboard is pretty tricky.
Extra tips: How to pack moving boxes properly?
If you’re wondering how to start packing boxes for moving and what to do, you landed in the right place. We’re sure these tips and tricks will help you.
- Start packing with the right materials and tools. Boxes, but also packing peanuts, bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, scissors, marker, ziplock bags for small items. You may also need to prep a box cutter in case you need to pop open a box that you’ve sealed.
- Choose proper boxes for moving. Avoid anything that once contained food and drinks. Old boxes are also less sturdy, so the safety of your stuff is compromised.
- Plan ahead with a list and schedule. Give yourself attainable goals, and the timetable to achieve them will ease your burdens. Doing this early will also give you a chance to declutter.
- Prep moving boxes. Don’t forget to line the bottom exterior with tape for an added layer of security. Pad the bottom of the interior: this serves as a shock-absorber in case someone drops the box.
- Fill the boxes properly. Try to mix your heavy items, like books, with a few lighter ones to stick to that weight limit. If you have space left to the top, add packing peanuts: the goal is to keep the top firm.
- Label the moving boxes. This is such a crucial step! Mark which room does a specific box belong to and make a rough list of contents.