Boxes vs tuppers, what's the best way to pack your stuff?

This month we’ll answer a very common question regarding the best way to pack your belongings in preparation for self storage.

Question:

Cardboard boxes or plastic bins. What’s a better choice to put in my storage locker?

Answer:

The answer to this question is it depends. It depends on things like:

• If you’re using humidity-controlled storage units
• How long you’re planning to store things for 
• Your budget/convenience

Both are suitable choices for packing and offer advantages in different circumstances. For instance, plastic bins are sturdier, moisture-resistant and pest-resistant. Moisture resistance means you can place them directly onto the floor without having to worry about condensation on the cement. However, if you’re in a humidity-controlled, temperature-controlled storage unit, extra moisture isn’t a concern. Of course, everything you’ve packed into the bin needs to be completely dry or there will be problems with mould.

Plastic bins last a long time so if you’re not planning on store for very long then cardboard boxes may be the better option. When you’re done with your storage locker they can simply be broken down and recycled so they won’t be cluttering up your new environment.

If you’re operating on a tight budget, cardboard boxes are cheaper than plastic bins. So if you are looking at using a lot of containers, boxes may be the way to go. You can also find them just about everywhere, so you’ll likely find this a more convenient option as well.

Let's sum it all up: 

Plastic bins / vs / Cardboard boxes

• Strong, durable / Susceptible to damage and wear
• Waterproof / Susceptible to moisture
• Pest-proof / Susceptible to pests
• More expensive / More affordable
• Less convenient / quick, easy, convenient, ubiquitous
• Great for long-term storage / great for short-term storage
• Need to be stored after use / Can be broken down and recycled

Storguard wants to make moving your possessions as convenient as possible. We have wardrobe boxes for your clothing, 2 and 4 cubic ft packing boxes and a variety of other useful packing supplies ready for you. Give us a call to learn more.