Packing Up: Where to Get Moving Boxes in NYC

You've got your new place lined up. Now, you've got to get packing. Here's our rundown of where to get the highest-quality moving boxes in NYC.
Ross Sapir
By Ross Sapir
5 Min Read

Moving boxes are some of the simplest yet most important parts of any move. If you choose the right ones, they should be functional and forgettable on the day. But if you settle for weak ones, or too many small boxes for a major move, they can make the process way more difficult than it needs to be. If you're planning to start packing in the next few weeks, we've got you covered on how to secure the best boxes.

For the Best Boxes, Check Out:

muuv's Packing Service

We pride ourselves on our packing service, through which we send you all the packing materials you need before move day. Once you've packed your stuff, we'll do all the heavy lifting, and because we know how tough it can be to track down solid boxes in the city, we love helping out in the early stages of the process. 

We offer a range of sizes to choose from, and all our boxes are super durable. When you request packing materials, feel free to ask one of our organizing gurus what size boxes, and how many of each size, they think you'll probably need. We'll always bring extra boxes upon request on move day if necessary, too. 

Unlike the other options we run through below, our packing service is a personalized dialogue that allows you to start visualizing your move before you've even started packing. While moving is stressful, your boxes shouldn't bother you, and we're always here to offer advice about how to get the most out of every single box you have!

Hardware Stores and Amazon

Most hardware stores in NYC have a solid selection of boxes. Though they can sometimes get pricey depending on the store and the size of the box you're buying, popping into your local store to pick up a box or two is a great option in a hurry. 

Staples and other stationery stores often have banker's boxes in stock which can be useful for more delicate items like plates, glasses, and technology you're not planning to pack away deeply. While hardware stores might not be able to provide you with every kind of box you'll need for a big move, they're great places to start to learn about what you'll need as move day approaches. 

Amazon has a solid range of moving boxes, too. You'll have to wait for them to arrive, which isn't always ideal if your move is a couple of days away and you've put off packing for a bit. But it could be a good idea to order one of several different kinds of boxes to try out in the weeks before your move. This will help you practice packing efficiently and logically so that your move-in experience will be smooth, quick, and easy.

Moving Supply Stores

There aren't aren't too many in the city, but if you live near a moving supply store, check out their inventory to get a better understanding of the options. At moving supply stores, you'll be able to get a hands-on understanding of what thickness and size will be best for you and your packing needs.

The trouble with moving supply stores is that you'll most likely have to lug the boxes you buy back to your current apartment and build them yourself. If this is your style, then by all means go for it! Like cooking a meal from scratch, putting together your moving boxes can definitely make you appreciate and enjoy the moving process even more. 

Moving supply stores often offer great selections of tape as well. While it might feel like there's only one kind of tape, asking either your muuv organizational guru or a moving supply store employee which type is best will show you that some are definitely better than others! Some tape, for example, might not fare too well in bad weather, while others can withstand almost anything. We always recommend splurging a bit on tape to make sure your belongings are safely packed away, and if you choose to use our packing service, you can be sure we've done just that!

Wrapping Up...

Moving boxes aren't difficult to track down in the city. But if you're looking for the most solid boxes around, hopefully these tips have been helpful. Asking experts which boxes are best for your needs is key, and we always recommend going for the thickest boxes and the strongest tape you can find. While it might feel tempting to opt for cheaper options, like ones you might find in the hardware store around the corner, it's important to remember that packing is a short yet intense experience. 

You might think it's not worth it to plan carefully for your packing process because your move will only take one day, but when you remember that your entire life is being packed and moved away, it becomes clear that packing is almost an act of protection. You're protecting your belongings from the elements and the bumps along the way, and when you're settled into your new place, you'll be able to forget entirely about the boxes you used because they were so effective. 

If our packing service seems right for you, reach out to start packing with us today. If you've got questions about how exactly it works, check out our website or feel free to give us a call! We're always here to help make your move as seamless and mellow as possible.

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