How to choose the right storage box for your next move?
Planning to move into a new house soon? Or simply want to declutter? Stowing away your belongings is no easy feat. The first step to proper organization is choosing the right storage box.
Not only does that ensure the safety of your stuff but also makes transportation easy. Needless to say, the goal is to make the most of available space while keeping costs low. If you’re not sure how to navigate effective storage, here’s what to look out for.
Storage Box 101: 4 Factors You Must Consider
Size
Should you go with a 160 litre storage box or one with a 32 litre capacity? The practical utility of a storage bin or container directly depends on the type of items it will hold.
Typically, a 32 litre box is 60 cm long, 40 cm wide, and 18 cm tall whereas a 160 litre box is 71cm long, 47cm wide, and 60 cm tall. You shouldn’t invest in any until you’ve visually mapped out the amount of small, medium, and large items in your space.
Pay special attention to depth. Oftentimes, homeowners must settle for boxes that are sufficiently tall yet too wide. While this isn’t ideal, it’s better than opting for a small storage bin that simply won’t close or seal.
Safe to say, the last thing you want is to cramp expensive items into the wrong box, only for it to come apart and damage what’s inside.
Material
Tired of the plastic v cardboard debate? Let’s break it down.
Plastic boxes are sturdier, ideal for medium to long-term storage, and pretty easy to come across. The only drawback? They’re slightly more expensive than their cardboard counterparts.
That said, cardboard boxes, despite being cost-effective and suitable for temporary storage, are not durable at all. They’re prone to tearing and easily damage their contents.
If you’ve already rented out a self-storage space and don’t want to risk your precious belongings, invest in heavy-duty storage boxes made of plastic, no questions asked.
Mobility
What’s better than a 160 litre storage box? A 160 litre storage box with wheels.
If this is your first rodeo moving into a new space, rest assured, lugging boxes around all day is bound to take a toll on your back.
Not to mention a large storage box with wheels offers greater protection. Since these are dragged only a few inches above the ground, their chances of accidentally dropping to the floor, and breaking fragile items inside, are virtually zero. Verily, storage containers on wheels with handle attachments are always the superior choice.
Weight capacity
Large doesn’t always mean sturdy. Simply put, if you’re looking to store hefty items, you need heavy duty plastic storage containers. Not just those that look big but can’t even sustain the weight of a table lamp.
Similarly, do not fall for marketing gimmicks that recommend cardboard storage boxes for heavy items. While plastic isn’t indestructible, it does a great job at storing bulky items.
So, do yourself a favor and check all-things cardboard off your list. On average, the standard cardboard storage box can only support items up to 20 pounds, whereas double walled versions hold up to 60 to 150 pounds. Anything beyond that is a massive stretch.
Fortunately, most storage box companies include weight capacity in the product description so customers can make an informed choice.
The bottom line
A big part of choosing the right type of storage box depends on the manufacturing brand. As a homeowner, you deserve to buy from reliable companies that live up to their quality claims. To stay on the safe side and give your items a winning chance, stick to Storage Box Direct for sturdy plastic bins that never disappoint.
