When tackling a move, it can be hard to know which container is best for keeping your items safe, away from the elements, and the most moving-friendly. Nobody wants to pick up a box or container full of fragile things and have the bottom give out or lid break or just have everything fall apart. Torn between using plastic containers or cardboard boxes for your relocation? Read below for a guide to choosing the right packing and moving options for you.
Plastic Totes vs. Cardboard Boxes
Overall, for small moves across town or nearby, using boxes or plastic containers doesn’t make a ton of difference when it comes to durability or ease of use. However, when choosing the right containers for a longer distance move where things have to be stacked or shipped for long periods, it’s important to choose the right packing materials to get your items to your new home safely.
Sizing
Plastic containers can generally be bigger than cardboard boxes, but that’s not always an advantage. Large totes packed high with items can be too heavy to lift, move, or stack properly. If you choose plastic containers for a move, make sure to choose smaller, easier to move styles rather than large tubs.
Stack-ability
Boxes are designed to be more standardized dimension-wise for stacking and for storage, but if you’re reusing boxes or just don’t have boxes of just one size, it can make things tricky to save space in your moving truck. Generally speaking, plastic totes are designed to be stacked easily, but don’t have the design to make them slide into tight spaces easily due to handles or ridges poking out.
Durability
Plastic totes are generally more angled, which can compromise the lid when stacking things on top of one another. Unless you have items packed up to the hilt and have support for the bin’s lid, watch out for stacking heavy items on top – the lid could break. Moving boxes are generally made from highly durable materials, but can be more susceptible to the elements or breaking when not taped or secured correctly.
Shipping
Plastic containers can be more challenging to ship than cardboard boxes due to their size and dimensions. Cardboard boxes are generally the better choice when shipping items long distance.
Regardless of which option you choose in the end, make sure to pack your items securely and safely. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and never place heavy items on top of lighter ones – especially when moving long distance. Stay safe and happy moving!
FAQs
Cardboard boxes are generally the better choice when shipping items long distance. Regardless of which option you choose in the end, make sure to pack your items securely and safely. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and never place heavy items on top of lighter ones – especially when moving long distance.
Are plastic bins or boxes better for moving? ›
Cardboard boxes stack well, edge-to-edge, so they don't slide around in a moving truck and because they fit snugly against each other, they take up less space, which means you may pay less. If you are paying by the pound, you will also save money as cardboard boxes are more lightweight than plastic containers or totes.
Is it better to store in cardboard or plastic boxes? ›
A: That depends on what you'll be storing, where you'll be storing it, and how long you'll be keeping your things there. Cardboard boxes are great for short-term storage, but if your stuff will stay tucked away for months (or years), plastic containers are probably a better bet longevity-wise.
Can you use plastic boxes for moving? ›
Plastic is inherently more durable than even the best quality cardboard and would, therefore, offer better protection during your move. Unlike plastic crates, cardboard boxes are unlikely to stand up to wet weather and would need additional protection to keep your belongings dry.
Are cardboard boxes good for moving? ›
The majority of moving boxes, including our top pick from Uline, are made of cardboard. Cardboard is easy to fold flat for storage, rigid enough to hold up when filled with heavy items, and is cheap enough to buy in bulk without you spending a fortune.
Why use cardboard instead of plastic? ›
Sustainable: Cardboard has a clear sustainability benefit over plastic as it is biodegradable and breaks down much quicker. Reusable: One of the greatest advantages is that cardboard boxes can be used again, and with the corners of the boxes being flexible, they can be collapsed when not in use.
Why is cardboard better than plastic? ›
One of the most important factors, however, is that cardboard decomposes much faster than plastic. Cardboard has an estimated breakdown time of just about two months, given the right conditions. Plastic, by contrast, is estimated to take roughly 400-1,000 years to break down.
Is it OK to use plastic electrical boxes? ›
Though PVC can melt when overheated, it does not conduct electricity like metal does. Use plastic boxes when: There are non-metallic (NM) cables leading in or out of the box. Metal-sheathed wiring relies on bonding with the metal electric box for grounding and should not be used in plastic boxes.
What is the most useful size moving box? ›
Medium boxes (18 x 18 x 15 inches, 22 x 16 x 15 inches or 3 cubic feet): The most common moving box, this size is good for office supplies, records, toys, small appliances, decor, photo albums and most household items.
Can boxes be too heavy for movers? ›
Movers can take an extra box or two if they are light enough — but they can't take half a box if one is too heavy. This is simple math. If you use extra large boxes and you pack them too heavy, two movers might be needed to move it safely. That slows down the move and ends up costing you more money.
Food is not the only main attraction for rodents. Just as we believe our homes to be safe spaces, some rodents may also find that to be true in the cardboard boxes tucked away in our attics. By storing cardboard boxes in your attic, you could be unintentionally inviting rats, mice, and other rodents into your home.
What is the best material for storage boxes? ›
Plastic is also hard-wearing and weather-resistant, making it a more appropriate choice for storage than a cardboard box, for example, which will go soggy at the slightest contact with water.
What are the best boxes for self storage? ›
Whilst cardboard boxes are a popular choice, plastic storage bins are better containers for self storage. They're easily stackable, can better protect your belongings from moisture, heat, and anything else that might be trying to get inside.
Is it OK to store things in cardboard boxes? ›
Cardboard boxes are not meant for long term storage. I often come across boxes of photos, keepsakes, and memorabilia that have been ruined by moisture in basem*nts or garages. It is so sad to see this damage and know how easily it could have been prevented. Plastic storage containers are made with space saving in mind.
Do cardboard boxes attract mold? ›
Cardboard is a porous/absorptive material that harbors moisture and promotes the growth of mold.
