What to Do With Leftover Packing Supplies

If you’ve recently moved, chances are you’re staring at a pile of leftover moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and other supplies—and wondering what to do with them.

You’re not alone.

Figuring out how many packing supplies you’ll need isn’t an exact science. Most people are told to overestimate, which means having extras is pretty common. But now that the move is done, you’re faced with a choice: toss them, keep them, or find another use?

Here’s what to know about handling leftover packing supplies,and why saving them might be smarter than you think.

Should You Save Packing Supplies for the Next Move?

In many cases, yes. If you’re planning to move again in the near future, or just want to be prepared, saving packing supplies can offer real benefits.

It Saves Time on the Next Move

Tracking down the right supplies takes time. If you already have boxes, bubble wrap, and tape ready to go, that’s one less thing on your to-do list during a stressful time.

It Cuts Costs

Moving supplies can get expensive. Even if you only reuse a portion of what you saved, that’s money you don’t have to spend again.

Useful for Storage Between Moves

Not planning to move again soon? You can still use those supplies to store seasonal clothes, decorations, paperwork, or anything else that needs organizing. They’ll come in handy around the house or in a storage unit.

Condition Matters

Keep in mind that cardboard weakens over time, especially if it’s exposed to moisture or fluctuating temperatures. If your move isn’t for a while, don’t use older boxes for fragile items—stick to things like linens, clothes, or other soft items.

Other Smart Uses for Leftover Packing Supplies

If saving them doesn’t make or you simply have too many, there are still plenty of ways to make good use of them.

Reuse Them Around the House

Leftover packing materials are perfect for everyday household needs. Use them to:

• Organize closets or garages
• Protect fragile items in storage
• Keep kids’ artwork or family keepsakes safe
• Wrap delicate decorations during the holidays

They’re also useful for shipping returns or packing up gifts.

Try DIY Projects or Crafts

Packing supplies are ideal for creative projects. Use boxes to build pet beds, organize craft supplies, or even make homemade toys or playhouses. Bubble wrap and packing paper are perfect for kids’ crafts, science experiments, and school projects.

With a little imagination, you can turn leftover supplies into something practical or fun.

Donate to Someone Else

Plenty of people would be grateful for free moving supplies, especially if they’re in good condition. Check with:

• Local shelters or donation centers
• Friends or neighbors planning a move
• Community groups like Buy Nothing or Facebook Marketplace

Donating is a great way to give back while clearing space in your home.

Sell Them Locally

If you’d rather make a little money back, you can always sell your extra supplies online. Post listings on sites like Craigslist, OfferUp, or local neighborhood groups. Some moving companies even buy back unused supplies, so it’s worth asking.

Just keep in mind that selling takes time and effort, and may not be worth it unless you have a decent amount to offer.

Recycle Responsibly

If nothing else works, recycling is the most eco-friendly way to get rid of your leftover supplies. Flatten boxes, keep materials clean, and separate recyclables by type. Avoid tossing everything in the trash if you can help it.

How to Store Packing Supplies the Right Way

Want to hang onto your packing materials for the future? Here's how to keep them in good condition without creating clutter:

• Break down and flatten all boxes
• Store in a dry, climate-controlled space
• Keep bubble wrap and packing paper in bins or large trash bags
• Avoid storing materials near anything damp or humid
• Label your supplies so you can find them easily when needed

If you have more than you can store at home, consider renting a small storage unit to keep everything clean and accessible until you need it again.

Need More Supplies Later? Go Fresh

If you find yourself prepping for another move and need more supplies than you saved, don’t stress. Most reputable moving companies offer high-quality packing materials that are durable and reliable. Look for companies that allow you to purchase only what you need or include packing supplies as part of their services.

Getting a moving quote in advance can help you estimate the full cost of supplies and avoid surprises later.

Final Thoughts

Packing supplies are one of those things you don’t think much about, until you have too many. Whether you save them, reuse them, donate them, or repurpose them, those leftover boxes and materials still hold value after your move is done.

Rather than tossing them out, consider how they could save you time, money, or storage headaches in the future. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll find that leftover packing supplies are more useful than you might expect.