When you’re getting ready to move, protecting your belongings should always come first. The right storage containers make a big difference by keeping your items safe, organized, and easy to transport. Strong containers reduce damage, save time, and help make moving day far less stressful. While there are many options available, plastic moving containers often stand out for their durability, reliability, and convenience.
If you’re searching for dependable moving containers that won’t let you down, BluBox-It is here to help. We provide sturdy, reusable moving boxes that are built to handle real moves—without the hassle of flimsy materials or unnecessary waste. With affordable rentals and free delivery scheduling, moving just became easier.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best storage containers for moving, explain how many you may need, and share helpful packing tips to simplify your relocation.
What Are Storage Containers?
Storage containers are any boxes or bins used to pack, move, and store your belongings during a relocation. The best containers do more than hold items—they protect them, keep everything organized, and help prevent loss or damage along the way.
When choosing storage containers for your move, it’s important to think about factors like size, durability, cost, and how well they suit the items you’re packing. Picking the right containers helps ensure a smoother and more efficient moving experience.
How Many Storage Containers Do You Need for a Move?
Choosing the correct number of containers is just as important as choosing the right type. Too few boxes can lead to rushed packing and damage, while too many can create unnecessary clutter and cost.
That’s why using a moving box calculator is helpful. It estimates how many containers you’ll need based on the size of your home—from studio apartments to large family houses—so you’re properly prepared.
When you rent containers from BluBox-It, you get more than just boxes. We also provide useful packing tools like labels and moving dollies to help keep your move organized and efficient from start to finish.
Free vs. Bought vs. Rented Containers
One of the biggest moving decisions is whether to use free, purchased, or rented containers. Each option has its own advantages and limitations.
Free Containers
Free cardboard boxes are easy to find through grocery stores, friends, or local shops. While they’re budget-friendly, they often vary in size and quality. Many free boxes require extra tape or reinforcement, and availability can be unpredictable, making it harder to plan ahead.
Bought Containers
Buying new boxes offers consistency in size and strength. These containers provide better protection than free options, but costs can add up quickly—especially for large moves. After the move, storing or disposing of unused boxes can also be inconvenient.
Rented Containers
Renting containers is often the most convenient option. Plastic bins are commonly rented because they are durable, reusable, and weather-resistant. With rental services, containers are delivered and picked up on your schedule, eliminating storage concerns afterward.
Companies like BluBox-It make renting even easier by including free delivery, pickup, and packing supplies. Renting saves time, fuel, and stress while offering a cleaner and more reliable moving solution.
Types of Storage Containers
Different items require different types of containers. Understanding your options helps you choose what works best for your move.
Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes are lightweight, easy to stack, and commonly used for moving. They’re made from recycled paper or wood pulp and come in various sizes. Cardboard boxes work well for short-distance moves and for packing items like clothes, books, and kitchenware.
Prices typically range from $1 to $3 for small boxes, $2 to $5 for medium boxes, and $5 to $12 for large boxes. While affordable, they are less durable and more vulnerable to moisture and wear.
Plastic Bins
Plastic bins are one of the best choices for moving due to their strength and long-lasting design. Made from durable plastic materials, they provide excellent protection against moisture, dust, and pests. These bins are ideal for long-distance moves and for packing fragile or valuable items.
Plastic bins are reusable, stackable, and available in various styles, including clear bins for easy visibility and heavy-duty options for heavier items. Rental prices usually range from $1 to $3 per bin per week, while purchasing can cost between $10 and $30 per bin.
BluBox-It offers high-quality plastic bins for rent with free delivery and pickup, making them an eco-friendly and stress-free solution for your move.
Plastic Totes
Plastic totes are sturdy containers designed for heavier or more delicate items. Their rigid structure allows safe stacking and long-term storage. They offer strong protection against moisture but tend to be more expensive than standard boxes.
Prices vary by size, typically ranging from $5 to $15 for small totes, $10 to $30 for medium ones, and $20 to $50 or more for large sizes. While durable, they may not be cost-effective for one-time moves.
Portable Storage Units
Portable storage units are delivered directly to your location, allowing you to pack at your own pace. Once loaded, the unit is transported to your new home or placed in storage. These units are weather-resistant and secure, making them suitable for long-distance relocations.
While convenient, portable units require sufficient space for placement and can be more expensive depending on size, distance, and rental duration.
Shipping Containers
Shipping containers are designed for large-scale or long-term storage needs. Made from strong, weather-resistant materials like steel or aluminum, they offer maximum protection. However, their size, weight, and cost make them better suited for major relocations or extended storage rather than typical household moves.
Specialty Containers
Specialty containers are built for specific items that need extra care during transport. Common examples include:
- Wardrobe Boxes: Allow clothes to remain hanging and wrinkle-free
- Dish Pack Boxes: Extra padding protects plates, glasses, and mugs
- Mattress Boxes: Shield mattresses from dirt and moisture
- Mirror and Artwork Boxes: Designed for flat and fragile items
- Bike Boxes: Safely transport bicycles
These containers provide targeted protection for items that standard boxes can’t handle as well.
Best Moving Containers
Here are the best container options based on different moving needs:
- Best Overall: Plastic bins offer the perfect balance of durability and convenience. They protect a wide range of household items and ensure safe transport from start to finish.
- Best Budget Option: Cardboard boxes are ideal for movers on a tight budget. They’re widely available and suitable for durable items.
- Best for Heavy Items: Heavy-duty plastic bins are best for tools, books, and appliances due to their strength and stability.
- Best for Fragile Items: Specialty boxes with added padding are essential for dishes, glassware, and artwork to minimize damage during transit.
Criteria for Choosing Packing Containers
When selecting moving containers, keep these factors in mind:
- Durability: Containers should protect items without breaking down
- Size and Flexibility: Choose containers that fit your belongings properly
- Ease of Handling: Stackable bins with handles make moving easier
- Weather Resistance: Protection from moisture, dust, and pests is key
- Move Type Compatibility: Ensure containers suit local, long-distance, or international moves
Choosing the right combination ensures a smoother and safer relocation.
Where to Get the Best Moving Containers
Renting Options
Renting is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and convenient. BluBox-It provides reusable moving containers with flexible delivery and pickup schedules for both residential and corporate moves.
Online Retailers
Buying online offers variety but may include shipping costs and longer delivery times.
Local Stores
Local stores allow in-person inspection but often have limited selection and require transportation planning.
Overall, renting containers is the most practical and sustainable solution for most movers.
Packing Tips for Moving
Packing efficiently helps protect your belongings and saves time during unpacking. Key tips include:
- Label Everything: Clear labels prevent confusion and lost items
- Maximize Space: Fill empty gaps with smaller items to reduce movement
- Protect Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap, padding, and specialty boxes
- Use Free Materials: Save money by sourcing free packing supplies when possible
Good packing habits make settling into your new space much easier.
Need a Moving and Storage Solution?
Choosing the right storage containers plays a major role in keeping your belongings safe during a move. Focusing on durability, size, and quality helps reduce stress and prevents damage.
With BluBox-It, you get affordable, reliable moving boxes designed to simplify your relocation. Our reusable containers offer convenience, protection, and peace of mind from start to finish. Schedule your move today and enjoy a smoother moving experience.