Moving can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to packing. One of the most common questions people ask is, Do moving companies provide boxes? The answer varies depending on the moving company and the type of services you choose. While some full-service movers include packing supplies, such as boxes, tape, and wrapping materials, others charge separately for these essentials.
Many professional movers understand the importance of high-quality, durable packing materials to protect belongings during transit. However, the availability of boxes depends on the company’s policies, the size of your move, and whether you opt for additional packing services. If you’re planning a relocation, it’s crucial to ask your movers in advance about their box supply options.
Additionally, if you’re looking for ways to cut costs, you may want to explore alternative sources for moving boxes. In this guide, we’ll answer the question do movers provide boxes? and help you determine the best way to secure packing materials for a smooth and stress-free move.
Do moving companies provide boxes?
Yes, many moving companies provide boxes, but their policies vary depending on the type of service they offer. Some movers include packing supplies, such as boxes, tape, and protective wrapping, in their full-service moving packages, while others charge separately for these materials. Additionally, some moving companies do not provide boxes at all, requiring customers to source their packing supplies.
| Type of Moving Company | Do They Provide Boxes? | Additional Notes |
| Full-Service Movers | Yes | Boxes are included in the packing service. Additional speciality boxes may be available upon request. |
| Self-Packing Movers | No/Yes | May sell boxes separately for DIY packing customers. Some offer discounted box bundles. |
| Container & PODS Companies | No | Customers must arrange their own boxes and packing supplies. Some providers may offer box purchase options. |
| Eco-Friendly Moving Services | Yes/No | Some offer reusable plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes for an eco-friendly option. |
Full-Service Movers
For those seeking a completely stress-free relocation, full-service movers are the best option. These companies handle every aspect of the move, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. One of the key advantages of hiring a full-service moving company is that they provide high-quality moving boxes, packing tape, and other protective materials as part of their service package.
Since professional movers use industry-grade packing supplies, you can rest assured that your belongings are well-protected during transit. Additionally, many full-service movers offer custom packing solutions for fragile and specialty items, such as artwork, antiques, and electronics. While this level of convenience comes at a higher price, it is ideal for individuals who prefer a hands-off approach and want to ensure the safety of their possessions.
Self-Packing Movers
If you are looking to cut costs while still hiring professionals to transport your belongings, self-packing movers are a great alternative. These companies allow you to pack your own items while they handle the heavy lifting and transportation. While boxes and packing materials are not always included in the moving package, many self-packing movers offer them for purchase at an additional cost.
Opting for self-packing movers means you have control over how your items are packed while still benefiting from the expertise of professional movers. If you decide to go this route, it’s essential to ensure that you use sturdy, high-quality boxes to prevent damage during transit. Some companies also offer partial packing services, where they only handle fragile items, making this a flexible and budget-friendly moving solution.
Container & PODS Companies
For those looking for long-distance or storage-friendly moving solutions, container and PODS (Portable On-Demand Storage) companies provide an innovative alternative to traditional moving services. These companies deliver a portable storage container to your home, allowing you to pack at your own pace before they transport the container to your new location.
However, one downside of this option is that container and PODS companies do not provide packing materials or moving boxes. Customers are responsible for sourcing their own boxes, packing tape, and protective wrapping. While this allows for flexibility, it also means that you need to plan and ensure you have enough boxes to secure your belongings properly. Many people choose to purchase moving supplies from home improvement stores or online retailers when using this type of service.
Eco-Friendly Movers
For environmentally conscious individuals, eco-friendly movers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional moving methods. These companies prioritize reducing waste by providing reusable plastic bins instead of disposable cardboard boxes. Plastic bins are not only more durable but also stackable, reducing the risk of damage during transportation.
Eco-friendly moving services may also use biodegradable packing materials, such as recycled paper or cornstarch-based packing peanuts, instead of traditional plastic bubble wrap. While the cost of renting reusable bins may be slightly higher than purchasing standard moving boxes, this option significantly reduces waste and is an excellent choice for those looking to minimize their environmental impact.
What Types of Boxes Do Moving Companies Offer?
Moving companies provide a variety of boxes designed to accommodate different packing needs. Choosing the right type of box ensures the safety of your belongings and simplifies the moving process. Below are the most common types of moving boxes and their uses:
Small Boxes (12” x 12” x 16”)
Small boxes, also known as book boxes, are designed for heavy and compact items that need extra support during transport. Due to their compact size, they prevent overloading, making them easy to lift and carry without the risk of breaking.
Best Uses:
- Books and Documents: Prevents excessive weight while keeping items organized.
- Kitchenware & Canned Goods: Suitable for packing plates, utensils, and non-perishable food.
- Tools & Hardware: Compact and sturdy, making them ideal for hammers, wrenches, and small power tools.
Packing Tips:
- Always reinforce the bottom with extra tape to handle heavier loads.
- Use bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent items from shifting.
- Label boxes with “Heavy – Lift with Caution” for added safety.
Medium Boxes (18” x 18” x 16”)
Medium boxes are among the most versatile moving boxes, offering a perfect balance between capacity and weight. They are commonly used for household essentials, clothing, and electronics.
Best Uses:
- Clothing & Shoes: Folded garments, shoes, and accessories fit neatly inside.
- Small Appliances: Blenders, toasters, and coffee makers can be packed securely.
- Toys & Decorative Items: Ideal for packing children’s toys, picture frames, and small home decor.
Packing Tips:
- Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to maintain balance.
- Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting.
- Seal all sides properly to maintain the integrity of the box.
Large Boxes (18” x 18” x 24”)
Large boxes are designed to accommodate bulky yet lightweight items that take up more space but do not add excessive weight. These boxes are essential for packing bedding, soft furnishings, and seasonal clothing.
Best Uses:
- Pillows, Blankets & Linens: Easily accommodates comforters, duvets, and bed sheets.
- Winter Coats & Outerwear: Ideal for packing bulky jackets and winter accessories.
- Curtains & Drapes: Prevents fabric from creasing when folded neatly.
Packing Tips:
- Avoid placing heavy items inside to prevent damage and difficulty in handling.
- Use vacuum-sealed bags to compress soft items and save space.
- Clearly label boxes as “Lightweight – Large Item Inside” to assist movers.
Wardrobe Boxes (24” x 24” x 40”)
Wardrobe boxes are tall, sturdy boxes designed specifically for hanging clothes, eliminating the need to fold and pack them in traditional boxes. They come with a built-in metal hanging rod, allowing garments to remain wrinkle-free during transit.
Best Uses:
- Suits, Dresses & Formal Attire: Keeps delicate fabrics and structured clothing in shape.
- Coats & Jackets: Prevents wrinkles and ensures easy transfer from closet to box.
- Long Dresses & Gowns: Protects expensive and delicate garments from damage.
Packing Tips:
- Ensure hangers are secured to prevent clothes from falling during the move.
- Avoid overpacking to maintain the structural integrity of the box.
- Tape the bottom of the box securely to support the weight of hanging garments.
Dish Pack Boxes (Reinforced Material)
Dish pack boxes, also called china boxes, are extra-sturdy moving boxes with reinforced double-walled construction. They are designed to protect fragile kitchenware and glass items from breakage.
Best Uses:
- Plates & Dishes: Ideal for dinnerware, bowls, and ceramic plates.
- Glassware & Stemware: Perfect for wine glasses, cups, and delicate drinking glasses.
- Porcelain & China Sets: Provides maximum protection for valuable and sentimental items.
Packing Tips:
- Use dish dividers or foam pouches to prevent contact between glass items.
- Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap for extra cushioning.
- Fill any gaps with packing paper or foam peanuts to prevent shifting.
TV Boxes (Varies by Size)
TV boxes are custom-fitted moving boxes specifically designed for flat-screen televisions, mirrors, and framed artwork. These boxes provide extra protection with foam inserts and adjustable padding to secure delicate screens during transport.
Best Uses:
- Flat-Screen TVs: Available in different sizes to accommodate all screen dimensions.
- Framed Art & Mirrors: Protects glass and delicate frames from breaking.
- Large Picture Frames: Prevents damage to oversized decorative pieces.
Packing Tips:
- Always use the original TV box if available for the best fit.
- Secure the screen with foam padding to prevent impact damage.
- Place fragile labels on the box to alert movers to handle it with care.
Is It Worth Paying Movers for Moving Boxes?
Hiring a moving company that provides boxes can be a convenient option, especially for those looking for a stress-free moving experience. However, is it truly worth the extra cost?
Pros of Getting Boxes from Movers
- High-Quality Boxes
One of the key benefits of getting moving boxes from your movers is the quality of materials. These boxes are typically made from thicker, double-walled corrugated cardboard, which offers enhanced support for heavy or fragile items.
Additionally, moving companies provide specialized boxes such as dish packs (for glassware), wardrobe boxes (for hanging clothes), and TV boxes (for flat-screen televisions). These high-quality materials significantly reduce the risk of damage during transit, making them a worthwhile investment if you are moving valuable or delicate items.
- Convenience
Finding the right boxes for a move can be a time-consuming task. If you decide to source boxes yourself, you may need to visit multiple locations such as hardware stores, supermarkets, or online marketplaces to find boxes of different sizes and strengths. Additionally, gathering used boxes requires effort in checking their condition to ensure they are clean, sturdy, and pest-free.
By purchasing boxes directly from your movers, you eliminate the hassle of searching, collecting, and inspecting boxes. Movers provide everything you need, allowing you to focus on packing and organizing your move more efficiently.
- Right Sizes Available
Using the correct box size for different household items is essential for a smooth and damage-free relocation. Moving companies offer a wide range of box sizes, ensuring you get the right fit for all your belongings.
Using the correct sizes helps optimize space within moving trucks and minimizes the risk of damage by reducing excess movement during transit.
Cons of Getting Boxes from Movers
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Higher Cost
One of the biggest drawbacks of purchasing moving boxes from professional movers is the cost factor. Moving companies often mark up prices on packing materials as part of their service.
For example, a small moving box from a professional moving company may cost between $2 – $3, while a similar box from a home improvement store may be available for $1 – $2. Bulk purchases from movers can be expensive, particularly for larger homes requiring 50+ boxes.
If you’re moving on a tight budget, it may be more cost-effective to purchase boxes from retail stores or find free alternatives from local businesses or online platforms like Craigslist, Freecycle, or Facebook Marketplace.
- Limited Supply Options: Not All Movers Provide Specialty Boxes
While most professional movers offer standard moving boxes, not all companies provide specialty boxes for fragile or oversized items. Specialty boxes, such as dish packs with dividers, TV boxes, and mirror cartons, may not always be available or may come at an even higher price.
Additionally, some moving companies only offer bundled packing kits, meaning you might have to purchase more boxes than you actually need. This could lead to unnecessary expenses and storage issues.
If your mover does not offer the exact type of boxes required for your move, you may need to source them separately from packaging supply stores or online retailers.
Does Everything Need to Be in Boxes for Movers?
While preparing for a move, you might wonder if every item in your home needs to be packed in a box. While boxes provide the safest way to transport belongings, not everything requires boxing. Professional movers can handle several items without boxes, but certain conditions must be met to ensure their safety during transit.
Items That Do Not Require Boxes
Not all household items require traditional moving boxes. Movers have specialized techniques and materials to transport large or bulky items safely without boxing them.
- Furniture: Movers Use Padding and Shrink Wrap Instead
Heavy furniture pieces like sofas, dressers, and tables don’t need to be placed in boxes. Instead, professional movers wrap them in thick furniture blankets, bubble wrap, or shrink wrap to prevent scratches, dents, and other damage. Some moving companies also disassemble furniture to make transportation easier and reassemble it upon arrival. If you have delicate wooden furniture or antiques, ask your mover about additional protective measures like corner guards or custom crates.
- Luggage & Suitcases: Great for Packing Clothes
Rather than wasting space in boxes, use your luggage and suitcases to transport clothes, shoes, and even lightweight household items. Hard-shell suitcases provide excellent protection for delicate items like jewelry or documents. Additionally, rolling your clothes inside suitcases minimizes wrinkles and saves space. If you’re flying to your new home, suitcases can double as storage for essentials during travel.
- Plastic Bins: A Durable Alternative to Cardboard Boxes
Plastic storage bins are an excellent alternative to traditional cardboard moving boxes. They are more durable, weather-resistant, and reusable. Many homeowners prefer using plastic bins for storing seasonal clothes, decorations, or kitchen items. If you’re moving in rainy or humid conditions, plastic bins protect your belongings better than standard cardboard boxes. However, ensure the lids are securely closed to prevent shifting during transport.
Items That Should Always Be in Boxes
While some items can be moved without boxes, others should always be securely packed to prevent damage. Movers typically have packing guidelines to ensure fragile and valuable items arrive safely at your new location.
- Fragile Items: Glassware, Dishes, and Electronics
Breakable items like glassware, plates, and electronics should always be packed in sturdy, well-padded boxes. Dish pack boxes designed with extra reinforcement—are ideal for plates, bowls, and china. For electronics such as TVs, gaming consoles, and laptops, it’s best to use the original packaging if available. Otherwise, specialized TV boxes and anti-static bubble wrap can offer the necessary protection. Proper labeling, such as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP,” helps movers handle these items with extra care.
- Small Loose Items: Office Supplies, Tools, and Accessories
Loose items like office supplies, cables, screws, and home accessories can easily get lost or damaged if not packed properly. Organizing small items in labeled ziplock bags or compartmentalized containers before placing them in boxes can make unpacking easier. Additionally, securing cords and chargers in labeled bags prevents tangling and confusion when setting up electronics at your new home.
- Books & Documents: To Prevent Bending or Damage
Books, files, and important documents should always be packed in small, sturdy boxes to prevent damage. Since books are heavy, packing them in large boxes can make them difficult to carry. Instead, opt for small boxes and reinforce them with packing tape. For critical documents like passports, property papers, or contracts, consider carrying them separately in a secure file organizer rather than packing them with household items.
Final Words
So, Do moving companies provide boxes? Yes, but it depends on the mover and the service package you choose. Full-service movers often include packing supplies, while others offer them at an additional cost. Understanding whether do movers provide boxes as part of their service can help you plan your packing budget more efficiently.
While purchasing boxes from moving companies ensures high-quality, durable materials, it may not always be the most cost-effective solution. Comparing prices from alternative sources like home improvement stores or online marketplaces can help you save money. If you’re moving soon, it’s essential to ask your movers about their box options, availability, and pricing.
A well-planned packing strategy—whether using moving company boxes or sourcing them elsewhere—can make your relocation smoother, more organized, and stress-free. Always choose the best option that fits your budget and moving needs.