What to Do with Moving Boxes After the Move: 10 Helpful Ideas

After moving, one of the lingering tasks many people face is what to do with the mountain of moving boxes left behind. They’ve served their purpose, but now you’re left wondering: what to do with moving boxes after the move?

Fortunately, there are many creative and environmentally friendly options for handling these boxes rather than letting them pile up and take up precious space.

1. Recycle the Boxes

Recycling is one of the easiest and most environmentally responsible ways to dispose of your moving boxes. Many local recycling centers accept cardboard boxes, and some cities even provide curbside recycling pickup. To prepare the boxes for recycling:

• Prepare the boxes: Remove all tape, labels, and staples to ensure they’re clean and ready for recycling.
• Flatten the boxes: Breaking down boxes saves space and makes transportation easier.
• Check local guidelines: Recycling rules vary, so confirm with your city or local recycling center. For instance, in Chicago, you can utilize the city's blue cart recycling program or drop off cardboard at designated recycling centers.

In Chicago, recycling centers like the Chicago Recycling Coalition or city-wide services can handle your used moving boxes. This option keeps waste out of landfills and contributes to a more sustainable future.

2. Donate the Boxes

Where to take boxes after moving? If your boxes are still in good condition, consider donating them to someone else who might be preparing for a move or needs sturdy storage materials. Many organizations, such as shelters, schools, libraries, and charities, can use sturdy boxes for storage or transportation.

Here is the list of the most popular ways to donate you moving boxes:

• U-Haul “Take a Box, Leave a Box” Program: Most U-Haul locations have a designated spot where customers can drop off their gently used moving boxes for others to take for free. It's an easy way to pass along wardrobe, mirror, or flat-screen TV boxes while helping others save money and reduce waste.
  
  
• U-Haul Exchange: This online marketplace lets U-Haul customers list their used boxes and packing materials for free or at a low cost. It’s particularly helpful for specialty boxes like those designed for fragile or oddly shaped items.
  
  
• Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle: These platforms are excellent for giving away leftover boxes. Many people list their packing supplies here, often for free or at a small fee, making it a quick way to connect with someone who needs them.
  
  
• Nextdoor: If you want to keep it local, Nextdoor is a great place to offer your used boxes. Many neighbors post about their leftover packing materials, making it convenient for others nearby to pick them up.
  
  
• Friends and Family: Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth! Your friends or family may know someone gearing up for a move who would gladly take your boxes off your hands.
  
  
• Neighbors: If someone recently moved into your neighborhood, they’re likely looking to unload their boxes. Conversely, you can offer your boxes to those who might need them by simply asking around.
  
  

• Organizations in need: Charities, schools, shelters, and libraries often need boxes for storage or transportation. Contact them to see if they can use your donations.

It’s a win-win situation: you declutter, and someone else gets free boxes.

3. Sell the Boxes

If your boxes are in excellent condition, you can sell them to recoup some of your moving expenses and make a little extra money. Many people and businesses are looking for affordable, second-hand moving supplies. Here’s how to get started:

• List online: Websites like UsedCardboardBoxes.com are dedicated to buying and selling used moving boxes.
  
  
• BoxCycle: This is a super handy service for anyone with moving boxes to spare or anyone searching for some. You can sell, donate, or even buy boxes on the platform, making it easy to recycle and reduce waste. If you’re feeling generous, check out their "Wanted" section — it shows what people are specifically looking for so you can make a one-on-one donation. It’s a feel-good way to give your boxes a second life while helping someone else with their move!
  
  
• Local sales: Use apps like OfferUp or visit local moving companies to see if they’ll purchase your boxes.

Typically, high-quality moving boxes can sell for $0.50 to $2 each, depending on their size and condition

4. Reuse Boxes for Storage

Leftover moving boxes can easily be repurposed for storage in your new home. Use them to organize seasonal items like holiday decorations, old clothing, or important documents. Don’t forget to label each box properly – it will make it easier to find the box you are looking for. You can stack them in your garage, basement, or attic for a simple, cost-effective storage solution.

If you anticipate moving again or need to ship items in the future, keep some boxes for later. Here’s how to store them effectively:

• Flatten for compact storage: Save space by flattening the boxes and stacking them in a dry, cool area.
• Prioritize high-quality boxes: Retain boxes that are sturdy, undamaged, and versatile.
• Label for quick retrieval: Mark boxes by size or purpose to make them easier to locate.

This strategy is a cost-effective way to stay prepared for your next move!

Read more: How to Unpack from a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

5. Get Crafty: Creative Uses for Old Moving Boxes

If you are that one person who enjoys DIY projects, cardboard moving boxes offer endless possibilities. These projects will breathe new life into your boxes while saving money on crafting materials.

Here are some creative ideas:

• Kids' playhouses or forts: Turn large boxes into imaginative spaces for children.
• Pet houses: Design a cozy hideout for cats or small dogs.
• Storage bins: Cover boxes with fabric or paint for decorative storage.
• Garden mulch or weed barrier: Flatten cardboard and lay it in your garden to suppress weeds and enrich the soil.

One more idea – turn leftover boxes into a creative way to brighten someone’s day by using them for snail mail! Pack a small box with thoughtful items like snacks, notes, or trinkets tailored to a friend’s taste and send it as a care package. Not only does it recycle the box in a fun way, but it also brings a personal touch to their mailbox. Focus on free or inexpensive goodies to keep it budget-friendly while spreading joy. It’s a win-win for both you and your lucky recipient!

6. Compost Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard is biodegradable, making it a great addition to your compost pile. So if you’re into gardening, cardboard can be a valuable addition to your compost pile. Tear the boxes into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition. Avoid composting boxes that have been heavily printed or treated with wax, as these chemicals can interfere with the composting process

Corrugated cardboard breaks down easily and adds carbon to the compost mix. Follow these tips:

• Shred into small pieces: Smaller pieces decompose faster.
• Avoid wax-coated boxes: Only use plain cardboard free of glossy finishes or heavy inks.
• Layer with green materials: Combine cardboard with grass clippings or food scraps for a balanced compost pile.

This eco-friendly option turns waste into nourishment for your plants.

7. Use for Emergency Preparedness

Cardboard boxes can serve as a backup in emergencies. Here are some ideas for these uses:

• Insulation: Line windows or floors with cardboard to keep a space warmer in winter.
• Storage for disaster kits: Packing essentials like water bottles, non-perishable food, and blankets.
• Temporary shelter: In extreme cases, sturdy boxes can act as barriers or cover.

Keeping a few boxes on hand ensures you’re prepared for unexpected situations.

8. Share with Local Movers or Businesses

Local moving companies or businesses in Chicago might accept gently used boxes for their customers. Reach out to nearby movers to see if they’ll take donations. Grocery stores, bookstores, and small businesses often need boxes for inventory or deliveries.

9. Organize a Box Swap

If you know others in your area are moving, organize a box swap to exchange boxes and reduce waste. This approach fosters community spirit and ensures boxes are reused multiple times before disposal.

10. Professional Box Removal Services

If you’re short on time or energy, professional box removal services can help. Many moving companies offer this as an add-on service, picking up and disposing of boxes for you. Alternatively, junk removal companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK or local Chicago services specialize in eco-friendly disposal of household items. Many movers also offer post-move cleanup services, including box removal.

Read More: Move Out Cleaning Checklist.

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Taking care of your leftover moving boxes is not just about convenience. Proper disposal:

• Reducing environmental impact: Cardboard is recyclable and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly material.
• Helping others: Your boxes could be invaluable to someone planning their move.
• Saving resources: Repurposing or selling your boxes extends their lifecycle and reduces demand for new materials.

Dealing with moving boxes doesn’t have to be a headache. From recycling and donating to creative upcycling and storage, there are countless ways to handle them responsibly and sustainably. Whether you’re in Chicago or elsewhere, these tips ensure your boxes don’t go to waste. With these tips, you can transform post-move chaos into an organized, eco-friendly process. So, next time you’re surrounded by a sea of cardboard, you’ll know exactly what to do with your moving boxes.

Why You Might Skip Reusing Boxes

Reusing old boxes can seem like a smart and eco-friendly idea, but it has some significant downsides.

Dusty & dirty boxes

First off, those second-hand boxes might not be as clean as you’d hope. They could be dusty from sitting in storage or have unsightly oil stains or other residues you wouldn’t want near your belongings. Plus, over time, boxes lose their strength. If you overpack a weak box, there’s a good chance the bottom could give out, spilling your items all over the place — we suppose it’s not exactly what you need during a move!

Bedbugs, moths and other “cute” surprises

Even if a box looks decent on the outside, it can still hide unwelcome surprises. Pests like bedbugs, moths, or even roaches can take up residence in used boxes, and you might not spot them until it’s too late. Imagine unpacking in your new home and finding uninvited critters — it’s a hassle no one wants to deal with.

The issue of compatibility

Used boxes come in all shapes and sizes, which sounds convenient until you’re trying to pack something specific, like a flat-screen TV. Without the right-sized box, your valuable items could be at greater risk of damage. Oversized boxes, on the other hand, might seem helpful but can end up being much heavier and harder to carry once they’re full.

Not for a busy people

Finally, there’s the effort involved in hunting them down. Whether it’s scrolling through online listings or driving around to local stores hoping for leftover boxes, it can be a time-consuming process. That’s time you could spend on more important parts of your move, like packing or organizing. Sometimes, new, sturdy boxes are just the simpler, safer choice!

Move4U Local Moving Services

If dealing with leftover moving boxes feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional moving company like Move4U. They not only provide high-quality packing materials for your move but also take care of them once your relocation is complete. From sturdy boxes to packing tape, Move4U ensures you have everything you need — and saves you the hassle of figuring out what to do with cardboard boxes after moving by responsibly removing them for you.

Move4U also makes sustainability a priority by offering reusable packing materials and solutions to manage those leftover moving boxes responsibly. Why struggle with the heavy lifting when Move4U can handle it for you? Let their local moving services take care of the details so you can focus on settling into your new home.