Step1
Ask Your Local Retail Stores
If you need boxes, the cheapest approach to take is to visit a few of your local retail stores. Most would be more than happy to give you their extra boxes. After all, it is less cardboard to take to the dumpster. It is best to target stores that are small to medium in size.
If you find a store that will let you take a few of their extra boxes, ask when they get their delivery trucks in. Show up a few hours later and you should have all different sized boxes to choose from.
Step2
Save What Arrives to You
Do you shop online? If you do, the packages that you get may be boxed and well padded. If so, safe everything. You can breakdown any boxes that you receive in the mail and tape them back up when you need to use them. As for packing supplies, be sure to save any air packs, foam peanuts, or bubble wrap that you get.
Step3
Ask Those That You Know to Save
If you have any close friends or family members that know you sell on eBay, consider asking them to save their boxes and packing supplies too. Many would be happy to do so for you.
Step4
Shop at Your Local Dollar Stores or Discount Stores
Dollar stores and discount stores are a great way to buy your needed packing supplies, like large sized envelopes and mailing tape. The only problem that you may face is that some of these stores operate on a “we have it until it is gone,” basis. If your local stores are the same way, you may want to stock up when you can.
As a reminder, ask if they have any extra cardboard boxes.
Step5
Look for Sales at Office Supply Stores
If you are unable to get free boxes or buy tape and mailing envelopes from your local discount stores or dollar stores, examine your office supply stores. Better yet, look for sales. Most post online versions of their weekly sale fliers. See if there are any deals on the supplies that you need, like mailing tape, bubble wrap, and cardboard boxes.
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