Planning a move in Chicago? Getting the right moving supplies is crucial for protecting your belongings and making your move as smooth as possible. Whether you’re handling a DIY residential moving project or just need to supplement what your moving company provides, Chicago has plenty of options for finding quality moving supplies at reasonable prices.
Finding the right supplies doesn’t have to be a hassle. From big box stores to specialty moving supply shops, the Windy City offers numerous resources to help you get everything you need for a successful move. Let’s explore the best places to shop for moving supplies throughout Chicago and the surrounding areas.
Big Box Retailers for Moving Supplies
Home Depot Locations Across Chicago
Home Depot has multiple locations throughout Chicago and the suburbs, making it one of the most convenient options for moving supplies. They carry a comprehensive selection of moving boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, packing tape, furniture pads, and dollies for rent.
Popular Chicago area locations include the Lincoln Park store on Clybourn, the South Loop location, and several suburban stores in places like Schaumburg and Oak Lawn. Many locations offer online ordering with in-store pickup, which can save you time on moving day.
Lowe’s Home Improvement
Lowe’s is another excellent option for moving supplies, with locations in Chicago neighborhoods like Bucktown and several suburban stores. They often have competitive prices on moving boxes and frequently run promotions on moving supplies during peak moving season.
Menards
While Menards locations are primarily in the suburbs, they’re worth the trip for their extensive selection and competitive pricing. The suburban locations in places like Cicero and Addison offer everything from basic moving boxes to specialty items like wardrobe boxes and dish packs.
U-Haul Centers and Truck Rental Locations
Comprehensive Moving Supply Selection
U-Haul has numerous locations throughout Chicago, and they’re not just for truck rentals. These centers typically stock the most comprehensive selection of moving supplies, including specialty boxes for items like televisions, mirrors, and artwork.
Popular Chicago U-Haul locations include sites in Lincoln Park, Logan Square, and numerous suburban locations. They also offer moving bundles that can save money when you’re buying supplies in bulk.
One-Stop Shopping Convenience
If you’re already renting a truck from U-Haul, picking up your supplies at the same location creates convenient one-stop shopping. Many locations also offer moving equipment rentals like furniture dollies and hand trucks.
Specialty Moving and Storage Supply Stores
Chicago Self Storage Facilities
Many self-storage facilities throughout Chicago sell moving supplies to their customers and the general public. These businesses often have competitive prices because they buy in bulk and understand what movers actually need.
Facilities like Public Storage, Extra Space Storage, and local Chicago storage companies often stock high-quality boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other essentials. Call ahead to confirm availability and hours.
Packaging and Shipping Stores
UPS Store locations throughout Chicago carry moving supplies, though their selection is typically more limited and prices may be higher than other options. However, they’re convenient if you need just a few items or specialty boxes.
FedEx Office locations also carry some moving supplies, and like UPS stores, they’re widely distributed throughout the city and suburbs.
Warehouse Clubs and Bulk Retailers
Costco and Sam’s Club
If you have a membership, warehouse clubs can offer excellent value on moving supplies, especially if you’re doing a large move. They typically sell moving boxes in multi-packs and offer bulk pricing on tape, bubble wrap, and other supplies.
Chicago area Costco locations in places like Lincoln Park and various suburbs stock moving supplies seasonally, with the best selection typically available during summer months when moving is most popular.
Bulk Purchasing Advantages
Warehouse clubs are particularly good for families doing larger moves or people who want to stock up on supplies well in advance. The per-unit cost is often significantly lower than buying individual items elsewhere.
Office Supply Stores
Staples Locations
Staples stores throughout Chicago carry a decent selection of moving supplies, including various box sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling. Their prices are competitive, and they frequently run sales on moving supplies.
OfficeMax and Office Depot
These office supply chains also carry moving supplies and sometimes have better selection than you might expect. They’re particularly good for smaller items like tape, labels, and markers.
Online Options with Local Delivery
Amazon and Online Retailers
Online shopping for moving supplies has become increasingly popular, especially for people who want to avoid multiple shopping trips. Amazon offers next-day or two-day delivery on most moving supplies to Chicago addresses.
The convenience of online shopping is particularly appealing for busy professionals or people who are moving during inconvenient hours. You can have supplies delivered directly to your current home or new address.
Local Delivery Services
Some Chicago-area moving supply companies offer local delivery services. While this typically costs more than picking up supplies yourself, it can be worth it for large orders or when you’re short on time.
Free and Low-Cost Supply Sources
Liquor Stores
Chicago has numerous liquor stores that are happy to give away their empty boxes. These boxes are typically sturdy and perfect for books, dishes, and other heavy items. Popular chains like Binny’s Beverage Depot often have a good selection of different sized boxes.
Grocery Stores
Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, and other Chicago grocery chains often have free boxes available. Produce boxes are particularly good for moving, as they’re designed to hold heavy items and have convenient handles.
Bookstores
Independent bookstores and chains like Barnes & Noble sometimes have boxes available for customers. Book boxes are perfect for heavy items because they’re designed to handle weight.
Specialty Items and Where to Find Them
Wardrobe Boxes
For moving clothes without wrinkling, wardrobe boxes are essential. U-Haul locations typically have the best selection, though Home Depot and moving supply stores also carry them.
Dish Packs and China Boxes
These specialty boxes with built-in dividers are crucial for safely moving dishes and glassware. Professional packing services often use these, but you can find them at U-Haul centers and some moving supply stores.
Mattress Covers and Furniture Pads
Protecting furniture during a move requires specialized supplies. Most U-Haul locations and Home Depot stores carry mattress covers and furniture pads for rent or purchase.
Timing Your Supply Shopping
Peak Moving Season Considerations
During summer months, moving supplies can be in high demand and sometimes sell out at popular locations. Shop early in the week and earlier in the day for the best selection.
Off-Season Advantages
Shopping for moving supplies during off-peak times (fall through early spring) often means better availability and sometimes better prices, especially at locations that want to clear inventory.
Budget-Friendly Shopping Strategies
Compare Prices
Moving supply prices can vary significantly between retailers. A quick comparison between Home Depot, U-Haul, and online options can save you money, especially on larger orders.
Buy Only What You Need
It’s easy to over-buy moving supplies. Make a realistic assessment of what you actually need to avoid waste and unnecessary expense.
Consider Rented vs. Purchased Equipment
For items like dollies, furniture pads, and hand trucks, renting from places like U-Haul or Home Depot often makes more sense than purchasing, especially for one-time moves.
Eco-Friendly Moving Supply Options
Reusable Moving Boxes
Several Chicago companies rent reusable plastic moving boxes, which are more environmentally friendly than cardboard and often easier to pack and stack.
Recycled and Recyclable Options
Many moving supply retailers now offer boxes made from recycled materials, and most moving boxes can be recycled after your move is complete.
Planning Your Supply Shopping Trip
Make a List
Before heading out to shop, make a comprehensive list of everything you need. This prevents multiple trips and ensures you don’t forget essential items.
Consider Transportation
Remember that moving supplies, especially large quantities of boxes, take up significant space. Make sure you have adequate transportation or consider delivery options.
Shop with Time to Spare
Don’t wait until the last minute to buy moving supplies. Shopping with time pressure often leads to overspending and settling for whatever’s available instead of finding the best deals.
Getting the Most Value
Finding quality moving supplies in Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re planning a commercial moving project or a household move, the key is knowing where to look and shopping strategically.
Remember that investing in quality moving supplies is an investment in protecting your belongings. Cheap boxes that fall apart or inadequate padding that doesn’t protect fragile items can end up costing much more than the money saved on supplies.
With Chicago’s numerous retail options and resources, you can find everything you need for a successful move without having to travel far from your neighborhood. Take advantage of the city’s competitive retail market to find the best deals and highest quality supplies for your upcoming move.
