7 Ways To Find Free Milk Crates Near Me

Practical tips on where to find free milk crates for creative DIY projects, storage, and organization. Learn how to acquire these versatile containers from local stores, online platforms, and community resources.
 

If you’re on the hunt for free milk crates (or other free stuff) you’ve come to the right place. Milk crates are incredibly useful for a variety of purposes, including home organization, decorative elements, storage solutions, simple bookshelves, compact planters for vegetables and herbs, and more. However, their cost can be unexpectedly high, often surpassing $15 per crate. Fortunately, we've found 7 solid ways to score milk crates for cheap or completely free.

Here are 7 Ways to Get Free Milk Crates

1. Local Grocery Stores

Your local grocery store probably has extra milk crates that they might be glad to give away. Build a good relationship with the store manager, and they might let you have some. Just ask politely if they have any broken or spare crates they’re looking to get rid of when you're already there shopping.

2. Convenience Stores

Convenience stores can be a great place to find free plastic milk crates. These stores often end up with extra crates after milk deliveries. Always ask the store manager if they're willing to give away any crates they don't need. When you're at convenience stores, just ask if they have any spare crates. It's a win-win: they get rid of clutter, and you get free crates for projects.

3. Restaurants, Cafes, and Catering Services

Milk crates often pile up at local restaurants and cafes, which receive lots of supplies. You might be able to get some if you ask the manager nicely. Catering companies also use milk crates to move things for events and might have extras you can use. Just make sure to get permission before taking any crates to avoid trouble.

4. Factories, Manufacturers, and Warehouses

These places usually have extra milk crates they use to store and move goods around. If you're looking for extra plastic crates, try asking at these locations. They could have more crates than they need and be willing to give some away to people. Remember, some of the containers they use might look different but still might be helpful for your projects, just ask!

5. Online: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle & Offer Up

There's so much you can do from the comfort of your own home. Finding free items has become incredibly easy, including securing free milk crates with platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and even various free stuff apps are chock full of treasures for those in search of free milk crates. From sturdy plastic crates to beautiful wooden milk crates, these online platforms provide a wide variety all readily available at your convenience. These sites may even allow you to haggle over the price or even offer them for free. Also, join your local Buy Nothing or Free Stuff groups on your social media channels.

6. Garage Sales, Yard Sales, and Thrift Stores

Those can be unexpected places to find free milk crates. People often give away items they no longer need, which could include the crates you're looking for. Check local listings or community boards for sales near you, and you might just find the crates you need for storage or DIY projects.

7. Friends, Family, and Local Community Groups

Talking to your friends and family might be a simple way to find milk crates that they aren't using. Just let them know you're looking for some for a project. Also, getting involved in your local community can lead you to finding free milk crates. Just be sure you have permission to take them to avoid any trouble.  

Always remember to request permission and clarify whether the milk crates are available for free or for purchase.