Where to Get Shoeboxes Free: 22 Online & In-Person Options Listed

Shoeboxes are handy not only for shoe storage, but for crafts, shipping, and making care packages. Below, we have the list of places where you can get shoeboxes for free, both locally and online. Note that while these places do sometimes offer shoeboxes for free, availability will vary by location and based on what they have at the time of your request.

Retailers

Shoe stores and general merchandise retailers may be willing to give you free shoeboxes if you ask the store manager. Customer service representatives from the following retailers told us that if you contact the individual, local store managers, you may be able to get free shoeboxes (though availability will vary by location):

• Costco
• DICK’S Sporting Goods
• DSW
• Famous Footwear
• Finish Line
• Foot Locker
• JCPenney
• Kohl’s
• Marshalls
• Rack Room Shoes
• Shoe Carnival
• Stein Mart
• Target
• T.J. Maxx
• Walmart

Note that while the U.S. Postal Service also has free “shoeboxes” available at its post offices (which are the same size as traditional shoeboxes, minus the lid), these are only to be used for shipping.

Apps and Websites

Websites and apps such as Craigslist, Facebook community groups, Facebook Marketplace, letgo, OfferUp, and The Freecycle Network offer the opportunity to search for free shoeboxes. You may also want to post an ad to ask for free shoeboxes.

Recycling Centers

Recycling centers may be willing to give you free shoeboxes if they have any that are intact — our related research on Target’s recycling policy details where to find recycling centers near you.

Other Things for Free

Our previous research features the details on where to get free cardboard, where to get free Wi-Fi, and where to get free stickers.