43 Things You Should Never Buy

Cardboard boxes

Some people pay for moving boxes, shipping boxes, businesslike “banker’s boxes” or storage cartons printed in decorative hues. But why would you buy boxes when you can get free ones at supermarkets, pharmacies, office-supply places and liquor stores?

Pro tips: Check the mixed paper and cardboard bins at the recycling center. You’ll find boxes of every shape and size. Some aren’t broken down (grrr … pet peeve); and others have been flattened but can be reshaped and re-taped. Any workplace that has printers and/or copy machines likely tosses out perfectly good boxes with lids. At the supermarket, politely ask if there are any “apple boxes.” These super-sturdy suckers are great for long-term storage. Liquor boxes are great too — after all, they protect bottles from breakage during shipping. I’m storing stuff in a liquor box that’s 41 years old.

Think about it: Why spend four or five bucks for a box, especially since it’s likely to be stored in a closet, storeroom or basement where no one can see it?