Back

5 things to do with your boxes after you have unpacked in your new home

Man carries moving boxes

Welcome to your new home! 

When the excitement of moving day has settled and your belongings are all neatly unpacked, you might start to wonder what to do with all those leftover boxes piling up. Many people will end up moving boxes from room to room and procrastinate the task of getting rid of or repurposing them. We know that after a house move, most people will have used up all the space in their recycling bins and be left with a pile of boxes staring back at them! Instead of succumbing to the cardboard stare-down, we’ve got five game-changing alternatives for those boxes.

1. Create a DIY storage solution  

Look around your new home and assess areas that need an organisational revamp. Whether it’s separating your summer wardrobe from your winter wardrobe or tidying up the office, repurposing your boxes into custom containers could be a cheap and eco-friendly solution. You can take some colourful tape, gel pens and wrapping paper to transform the unloved boxes into functional creative storage.  

2. Pass or sell them on

If your move has left you with sturdy, hardly used boxes, consider passing them on to someone else in the home moving process. Friends and family who are planning a move of their own would likely appreciate the gesture. If your moving boxes stay in great shape, you can also consider selling them on Gumtree or Facebook marketplace. It’s a win-win for everyone – you declutter, and someone else gets a head start on their packing. 

3. Returning them to the moving company

Many moving companies will accept box returns and this can be the hassle-free choice. It’s a convenient choice that saves you the trouble of finding alternative uses for the boxes. Some moving companies can pick up your used boxes right from your doorstep after you’ve packed up everything. 

4. Make use of your moving boxes

Gardening enthusiasts will know how helpful cardboard boxes can be for your garden. Your boxes can be transformed into raised beds by cutting out the tops, adding some soil, and planting your favourite flowers or herbs. Cardboard is also a fantastic way to prevent weeds from growing in your plant beds, simply lay the cardboard down underneath the bed!  

5. Recycle Responsibly

When all else fails, remember the golden rule: recycle, recycle, recycle! Break down the boxes and squeeze them in the recycling bin or drop them off at your local recycling point. It’s the eco-conscious way to bid farewell to your moving boxes. 

Now that your boxes are all dealt with, make sure to savour the joy of your new home!