How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost?

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  Congratulations, you’re moving! That beautiful new space has been locked down and now all you have to do is get your stuff from A to B. Have you thought about boxes? How many will you need? How much will they cost?

Moving Boxes: How Much Will I pay?

An often overlooked cost of moving, especially to first time movers, is the price of moving boxing. Surprisingly, flat foldable cardboard comes at a price. In order to determine what you will need to spend on boxes alone, apartment or home size should be considered first.

A studio apartment dweller will need approximately 27 boxes. However, this doesn’t mean 27 of the same sized boxes. Because different objects and weights require differently shaped boxes, the safest bet is to go with 6 small boxes, 8 medium and large boxes, and 5 extra large boxes.

Folks living in a one bedroom apartment will likely need a few more boxes due to the extra space for all their stuff. If this is the case for you, purchase 45 boxes with an approximate breakdown of 7 small boxes, 14 medium, 13 large, and 11 extra large boxes. Similarly the numbers increase for those who rent or own a two bedroom apartment, needing a total of 54 boxes, with a familiar breakdown in sizes.
How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost? Created By: ForRent.com

Also take into consideration your living style. A minimalist is less likely to need as many boxes as an avid Lego collector, or book enthusiast. As well, someone who loves fashion and fashion accessories is going to require more wardrobe conducive boxes and someone who has every kitchen appliance under the sun will need plenty sturdy medium to large boxes.

The Cost of Moving Boxes

Each size of box usually costs a different amount, and that cost varies depending on where you purchase boxes from. A small box on average costs $1.02 and a medium box is $1.63, where a large box is $2.03 and an extra large box costs upwards of that. Because of the range in price depending on retailer, the cost of purchasing boxes for your entire place varies quite substantially. Therefore, purchasing boxes for a studio apartment will cost you anywhere between $35 and $50. A one bedroom space will run you $61 to $80 while a two bedroom apartment will be $73 to $100 out of pocket. It certainly pays to do your research and shop around.

Tips on Buying and Using Moving Boxes

Another savvy option is to purchase bins with lids. Although this is an expensive option, costing over $400 for a studio apartment’s box needs, it has a great secondary use. Reusable bins can be used as storage in your new place. Also, there is potential for resale to gain back some of your expenses. Obviously this option is for those who can afford to put out the extra moving cash, which isn’t always an option.

If any of these numbers sound daunting, and you maybe forget about the cost of buying boxes, not to worry. There are plenty options for scoring free ones. You can put ads out on social media, visit local stores and grocery stores and ask for their empty boxes, or try asking your neighbors, you never know who will have a pile you can take.

Now that you have found the perfect place and have moved in; you may need to do some furniture shopping.  This is really my favorite part of settling into a new place!  Have you ever wondered about how much it costs to set up a new apartment?  Check out the infographic below.  
How Much Does the Average Person Spend on Furniture? Created By: ForRent.com

I hope this has given you some great information for either your next move.  Whether you are setting up an apartment for yourself or a college student, it’s good to be prepared!

Click the links below for any posts you may have missed!

Under the Sink Organization

Kitchen Reveal

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