How to Get Free or Cheap Boxes for Your Care Packages
Mailing care packages should be fun, but the cost can really add up. The boxes can be one of those unexpected costs, especially if you’re sending out care packages regularly, but you can get free shipping boxes.
I was shocked the first time I went to send a care package and looked at how much it cost just to buy the simple box. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to get your hands on free or affordable boxes without breaking the bank.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Priority Mail Boxes
While it might be tempting to go to the post office and get a free Priority Mail box, it’s actually against USPS regulations. I know – I was surprised when I first learned this, too.
While many people suggest grabbing those free boxes, know that they are intended for use only in Priority Mail shipping, and the box is baked into that cost. There are plenty of other options to get good boxes where this isn’t an issue.
If you plan to use Priority Mail, then definitely use the provided boxes. However, if you look at Pirate Ship (my favorite way to get discounted shipping), you can see how many other options you have that are generally less expensive.
You Can Buy Shipping Boxes in Bulk
If you’re sending out a large number of care packages, buying boxes in bulk might be the most cost-effective option. When I plan to do a care package packing party, I will sometimes buy a package of 20 or 25 standard size boxes to make everything easy for everyone.
It depends on the deal of the day, but I often find that Staples has the best pricing. Online retailers and packaging supply stores offer various sizes and styles of shipping boxes at discounted prices.
Recycle Existing Boxes
Reusing boxes is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way to ship your care packages. Look for sturdy boxes from recent deliveries that are the right size for what you’re mailing.
Amazon and Bark Box boxes are particularly good options because they’re often made from durable cardboard and are large enough to fit what you need. I don’t need to say it, but skip boxes that have been damaged, wet, or contaminated with food or liquids.
Ask for Boxes from Liquor Stores
Liquor stores often have a surplus of sturdy cardboard boxes. Even better, sometimes they come with dividers that can help keep items separate or keep delicate items more secure.
Don’t be shy about asking if you can take some home, as they are generally happy to not have to recycle them. Just make sure to remove any labels or markings that indicate the contents were alcoholic beverages.
Ask for Boxes from Grocery Stores
Grocery stores are another excellent source of free shipping boxes. Many stores have a recycling area where you can find discarded boxes, but always ask the manager before you take anything.
Some have specific days when they unpack and have boxes available, and they’ll let you know if that’s the case. Obviously some boxes will be too big or too small or won’t have lids, but you can usually find something that works.
Most of the time, the boxes will be broken down and flat, so it makes it easy to grab as many as you need and fit them in your car. Look for boxes that are in good condition and free from any damage.
Ask for Boxes from Bookstores
Bookstores may not be the first place you think of, but they often receive shipments of books in sturdy cardboard boxes. If you have a local bookstore, ask if they save any boxes for customers.
These boxes are often a little thicker and more sturdy than other boxes, which can be great if you have something breakable or heavier items. You can ask both at independent bookstores and chains, as both are known to share boxes.
Ask for Boxes in Your Local Buy Nothing Groups
I am a huge proponent of my local Buy Nothing group, as you can get just about anything there. In fact, people often rehome items they no longer need or want that are perfect for my kids, whether it’s granola bars they tried and didn’t like or leftover Halloween candy or even sometimes small stuffed animals or games.
In fact, yesterday someone gifted me an unopened Marvel LEGO set that is going in my son’s birthday box. You never know what you’ll find, and that includes free shipping boxes.
If you aren’t familiar with them, Buy Nothing groups are online communities where people can give away items they no longer need. You can also check other neighborhood groups or Freecycle, and just ask for what you need.
Ask Your Friends and Family for Their Boxes
Spread the word among your friends and family that you’re collecting boxes. You’d be surprised how many people save boxes and are happy to pass them along, and often they’re willing to write a short note for your kid, too.
Get Boxes from U-Haul
You may not think of U-Haul as a source for free boxes, as they sell boxes and moving supplies. They also have two options for free boxes that many people don’t know about.
Every corporate store has a drop location for people to donate their no longer needed boxes, and anyone can take boxes they need. Many independently owned locations also have this, but call first to make sure the one near you does.
U-Haul also offers an online box exchange program called Customer Connect where you can buy, sell, or trade used moving boxes. While this isn’t always free, it can be a more affordable option than purchasing new boxes.
Don’t Forget to Prep Boxes to Mail Care Packages
Before using a recycled box, inspect it for any damage. Tape up any tears or holes with packing tape.
Make sure the box is clean and free of any residue, which also means removing any old labels or identification. For added protection, consider lining the box with bubble wrap or packing paper.
I always reinforce the tape if it looks loose. If the box was broken down before I got it, I remove the old tape and then add my own to ensure it stays sealed until my kids get it.
Care Packages Are Already Expensive, So Save Money with Free Shipping Boxes
As much as I love to recycle things in general, getting free shipping boxes is really about saving money for me. I had a rude awakening the first time I went to send a care package, but these are my favorite places to get boxes now.
Between this and using Pirate Ship, you’re well on your way to saving enough money to be able to send a few extra care packages with all the money you’re saving. Where else do you get your free shipping boxes?
