Moving Tips | Storage Options for Your Next Move

Published: March 21, 2022

When planning to move, odds are the type of boxes you will use in the move are pretty low on the priority list. However, the type of storage boxes you use will affect your ability to move heavy items as well as delicate ones. The two most common types of storage for moving are plastic bins and cardboard boxes. Keep reading to discover the pros and cons of using both box and plastic bin storage options to ensure a worry-free move in 2022.

Plastic Bins

Plastic bins are much sturdier than cardboard. Not only can they hold heavier items, but the risk of them falling apart or breaking is much lower than cardboard. Plastic bins are also waterproof, and when a lid is put on top and sealed there is a very low chance of water entering the bin. The high durability of plastic also increases the odds that the bin can be used multiple times without the risk of breaking. 

Plastic bins are also easy to stack, as the lids provide a stable base for placing multiple bins on top of one another. The lid protects the bin’s contents from bugs, which is ideal when transporting food items. No tape needs to be purchased to secure the tops of plastic bins, which saves time and money. Additionally, plastic bins come in multiple colors which aid with the organization of items during a move. 

On the other hand, plastic bins are much more expensive than cardboard boxes. An average plastic bin will run you 4 to 5 times the amount the average cardboard box will. The average plastic bin is also larger than cardboard boxes, meaning they take up more space in your moving van or car. Although plastic bins are sturdier than cardboard, they can still break. And unlike cardboard, a broken plastic bin cannot be fixed. 

Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are a much cheaper alternative to plastic. They can be bought in bulk for a bargain at nearly every retail store. The extra money saved by using cardboard can be used to buy more boxes, tape to secure the tops of the boxes, or for any other necessity during a move. 

Cardboard boxes are also more flexible than plastic, which means they can be shoved into tighter spaces without worrying about them breaking. Cardboard boxes are generally smaller than plastic bins, so more of them can be stored in one vehicle. A cardboard box that is broken can be fixed with relative ease using duct tape, which is a big advantage over plastic. 

Which to Choose

There is no clear-cut winner here. It’s best to assess your own moving circumstances and choose which type of bin is better for you. It is very likely that a combination of the two is the best option. If you are transporting lots of delicate or heavy items, use plastic bins. If you are trying to save money, or do not need to worry about any objects breaking or breaking the bin itself, use cardboard. Although there will be a laundry list of things on your mind during your move, give some prior thought to the type of boxes you are going to use so that your items reach their new destination safely. 

Our Services

Whether you’re moving and need a short-term portable storage or want to store your items off-site in our storage center indefinitely, UNITS makes moving and storage as easy as 1, 2, 3! Our locally owned and operated stores are run by owners who care and are dedicated to making their customers’ lives easier.

Our average cost of moving and storage is typically far less than that of national brands. Get a free quote from us today and then compare our quote apples to apples with any national brand—you won’t be disappointed! UNITS® doesn’t have any hidden fees—PERIOD.