Buying moving boxes – the Comparis guide

Moving home requires a lot of cardboard boxes. But how many? And where can you get them? Our Comparis guide will help you in your search.

• How many boxes will I need for my move?
• Where can I buy moving boxes?
• Where can I get boxes for free?
• Is it worth renting moving boxes?
• What alternatives are there to moving boxes?
• Moving boxes: next steps

Boxes are an essential part of every move. You not only need enough of them, but you also need boxes of different sizes. If possible, pack heavier items such as dinnerware in smaller boxes. Fill larger boxes with light objects. This ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, resulting in less back pain for movers.

How many boxes will I need for my move?

It is difficult to estimate how many boxes you will need. A general rule of thumb is to allow one box for every square metre of living space. If you have many small boxes, it’s best to get more of them. If you have a lot of bookcases or a full cellar and attic, you will need a lot more boxes.

Where can I buy moving boxes?

Since moving boxes vary in price, size and type, Comparis has produced a comparison of 19 providers in which the moving boxes are of a comparable size.

You can also easily compare moving box prices online at comparis.ch.

Where can I get boxes for free?

Ask friends and relatives. Many of them still have boxes lying around in their cellar or attic. You can also ask larger retailers if they have any spare cardboard boxes. They will usually just give them to you for free. However, keep in mind that arranging a sufficient number of boxes takes quite a lot of time.

You may also be able to get boxes from packaging companies such as Model Group. They cannot usually sell boxes that have printing errors, but these are still perfectly fine for moving. The best thing to do is give these companies a call or enquire by e-mail.

Many people give away used boxes – or sell them cheaply – on online marketplaces. You will usually find that more are advertised after official moving dates. Some moving companies also offer boxes to buy or rent – or even for free if you use them for your move. You will get high-quality boxes of different sizes as well as special boxes for wine, clothes and other objects. Moving companies usually charge a fee for delivering the boxes before the move, and for pick-up afterwards.

Is it worth renting moving boxes?

Another option is to rent your moving boxes. Plastic moving boxes can be rented from special rental companies (e.g. leihbox.com and zuegelbox.ch) against a deposit. Moving companies also offer this option. Prices start at around 0.20 francs per box per day if you pick them up yourself. A minimum quantity of boxes and a minimum rental period apply. Plastic boxes are more practical than cardboard boxes, especially in rainy weather. Their high level of stability makes them ideal for breakable objects. However, they are also heavier than cardboard boxes.

Alternatively, you can also hire a moving company to take care of the move. Not only will you need fewer boxes, you’ll also save a lot of time.

What alternatives are there to moving boxes?

As an alternative to boxes, major distributors and furniture stores offer a range of plastic bags and containers for purchase. If you are going to need containers for storing items in your new home, this is definitely an alternative to moving boxes. Banana boxes are another option. They are a manageable size and their lids make for easy stacking later. Coop Bau + Hobby and Jumbo stock a range of these boxes.

Moving boxes: next steps

Transportation: arrange to collect the moving boxes close to your moving date. This will save time and money. If you are collecting a large quantity, a delivery van might be a good idea. Bulky wardrobe boxes are also often too big for a normal car. Alternatively, have the boxes delivered to your home. Don't forget to agree on a delivery date. Boxes should not be left outside the front door by the delivery company or postal service. You can also hire a moving company to take care of the move. Not only will you need fewer boxes, you’ll also save a lot of time.

Request moving quotes here

Packing: don’t skimp on packing material when packing. The same applies to packing tape. This will minimize the risk of items getting damaged during transportation. This is important not just for crockery and glasses, but also fragile books and other valuable items. Nothing is more annoying than unpacking a broken vase in your new home. So take your time when packing, label your boxes and work out where the boxes will go in your future abode. Specially designed boxes are available for books and clothes. Fill larger boxes with light objects. This ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, resulting in less back pain for movers. Bear in mind that all boxes have a weight limit. Of course, moving companies also offer packing services – for a fee.

Temporary storage: sometimes, you can’t move into your new home straightaway, perhaps because the house or apartment is not ready to move into. This means that you and your belongings will need a place to stay for a short period. Various temporary storage options are available: first enquire with your future property management company or the seller of a home. Moving companies sometimes also offer storage services. As well as traditional storage spaces, providers such as Zebrabox, PlaceB and Günstigerlagerraum offer self-storage units. Find out more in our article on renting storage space.