How to Store Moving Boxes?
You can store moving boxes safely and easily by flattening them, keeping them in a dry place, and protecting them from moisture and pests. This simple process can save you hundreds of dollars on future moves while keeping your storage area organized.
When you finish a move, you're left with piles of cardboard boxes. Don't throw them away! These boxes are valuable tools that can help with your next move, home organization, or storage needs. This guide will show you exactly how to store moving boxes the right way, so they stay strong and useful for years to come.
Why You Should Store Your Moving Boxes
Save Money on Future Moves
Keeping these boxes is economical. If you're planning another move in the future, having boxes on hand saves the expense and hassle of acquiring new ones. New moving boxes can cost $2-5 each, so storing just 20 boxes could save you $40-100 on your next move.
Multiple Uses Around Your Home
Moving boxes aren't just for moving. You can use them for:
- Storing holiday decorations
- Organizing closets and basements
- Donation drives
- Kids' school projects
- Garage sales
- Emergency storage needs
42 percent of renters used a storage unit while switching homes, which shows how common storage needs are during life changes.
How to Prepare Moving Boxes for Storage
Empty and Clean Your Boxes
Before storing boxes, make sure they're completely empty. Any leftover items, even small ones, can cause unnecessary weight and stress on the box, potentially leading to damage. Additionally, items left inside can attract pests or mold, especially if they are organic or contain moisture.
Clean each box by:
- Removing all tape, labels, and stickers
- Wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth
- Letting boxes dry completely before storage
- Checking for food crumbs or spills that could attract bugs
Flatten Boxes to Save Space
Flattening cardboard boxes is a simple yet effective way to save space. It allows you to store more moving boxes in a smaller area, making it a practical solution for those with limited storage space.
To flatten boxes properly:
- Remove all tape from seams
- Open the box completely
- Press along the original fold lines
- Fold the box flat following its natural creases
- Some larger boxes may need gentle pressure to flatten completely
Sort and Label by Size
Group your flattened boxes by size for easy access later:
- Small boxes (book boxes): 1.5 cubic feet
- Medium boxes: 3 cubic feet
- Large boxes: 4.5 cubic feet
- Extra-large boxes: 6 cubic feet
If you want to be really thorough, use a pen and paper or even a sticky note to make a note of the size of each box if it isn't already clearly indicated on the material. This saves time when you need specific sizes later.
Where to Store Moving Boxes
Choose the Right Location
The storage location is critical for keeping boxes in good condition. You need to take several different factors into consideration when choosing an ideal location for storing your extra corrugated boxes.
Avoid High-Moisture Areas
Be sure to avoid storing your corrugated boxes in a location that experiences high amounts of moisture. Some areas like basements are prone to high moisture levels that can affect your corrugated boxes and lead to mold and mildew.
High humidity levels lead to internal moisture within cardboard, and this has a direct impact on the strength of corrugated boxes. Research shows that a corrugated box stored at relative humidity (around 50%) will have about 80% of its original stacking strength.
Bad storage locations include:
- Damp basements
- Unventilated attics
- Garages without climate control
- Near water heaters or washing machines
- Outdoor sheds
Pick Safe, Accessible Spots
Be sure to avoid storing your corrugated boxes in a location that may have a higher risk for fire, such as an attic. corrugated boxes are flammable, so you need to be very careful about where you put them to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
Good storage locations include:
- Climate-controlled closets
- Spare bedrooms
- Finished basements (if dry)
- Climate-controlled storage units
- Under beds (for flattened boxes)
Keep Boxes Off the Floor
Make sure that your boxes are kept off the floor so that any potential leaks or floods cannot reach them, waterlog them, and render them useless.
Elevate boxes by:
- Using wooden pallets
- Placing on metal shelving
- Storing on plastic storage racks
- Using wire shelving units
Best Storage Methods for Moving Boxes
Store Boxes Upright
Store the boxes upright behind something that is able to keep them standing up without falling down. You could also lay them flat on top of something in order to maximize floor space.
For upright storage:
- Lean flattened boxes against a wall
- Use bookends to keep stacks stable
- Store in filing cabinet style
- Group similar sizes together
Bundle Boxes with String or Rope
Take some rope or string to tie them all together nice and tight so that they stay together and you can maximize your storage space. This keeps boxes organized and prevents them from falling over.
Use Protective Wrapping
For extra protection, especially in garages or less controlled environments:
- Wrap box bundles in plastic sheeting
- Use large garbage bags to cover stacks
- Consider placing desiccant packs nearby to absorb moisture
- Keep boxes away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
Storage Solutions for Small Spaces
Apartment Storage Ideas
Living in a small space doesn't mean you can't store boxes effectively:
- Behind doors: Utilize vertical spaces like the back of doors or beneath beds for sliding flat cardboard backings or thin boxes, maximizing living space without clutter.
- Under beds: Perfect for storing several flattened boxes
- In closets: Use upper shelves for box storage
- Behind furniture: Store flat boxes behind dressers or bookcases
Creative Storage Solutions
Consider these space-saving ideas:
- Wall-mounted storage racks for flattened boxes
- Rolling carts that fit in narrow spaces
- Overhead garage storage systems
- Custom built-ins that double as furniture
Protecting Boxes from Common Problems
Prevent Moisture Damage
Since wood fibers are used in the creation of cardboard boxes, the natural porosity of wood to absorb moisture when conducting transpiration is maintained even after the entire chemical treating and production of cardboard.
To prevent moisture damage:
- Use dehumidifiers in storage areas
- Ensure good air circulation
- Check humidity levels regularly (keep below 50%)
- Never store boxes directly on concrete floors
Keep Pests Away
Be sure to avoid storing your corrugated boxes in a location that may experience insects. If you are aware of insect issues in a certain location, it's best to avoid storing your boxes there.
Pest prevention tips:
- Clean boxes thoroughly before storage
- Use natural repellents like cedar blocks
- Check stored boxes every few months
- Keep storage areas clean and clutter-free
- Seal any cracks or openings in storage spaces
Avoid Fire Hazards
Make sure to keep them away from flammable sources as well as high amounts of other flammable material so that they don't act as additional tinder in the case of a spark.
Fire safety measures:
- Keep boxes away from heat sources
- Don't store near electrical panels
- Avoid areas with pilot lights
- Maintain clear pathways for emergency exits
When to Use Professional Storage
Climate-Controlled Storage Units
Climate controlled storage offers a stable environment for your boxes, maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level. This type of storage is particularly beneficial for cardboard boxes that contain sensitive items like electronics, photographs, or important documents.
Consider professional storage when:
- You live in extreme climate areas
- Your home lacks suitable storage space
- You're storing boxes long-term (over 6 months)
- You need to store valuable items in the boxes
Storage Unit Tips
When using a storage unit:
- Choose the smallest unit that fits your needs
- Place boxes on pallets or shelving
- Leave space for air circulation
- Visit periodically to check on condition
- Consider sharing a unit with neighbors to split costs
How Long Can You Store Moving Boxes?
Typical Lifespan
Well-stored moving boxes can last 2-3 years in good condition. However, this depends on:
- Storage environment quality
- Original box condition
- How often they're moved or handled
- Exposure to moisture and temperature changes
Signs It's Time to Replace Boxes
Replace stored boxes if you notice:
- Visible mold or mildew
- Weakened corners or edges
- Strong musty odors
- Discoloration or staining
- Pest damage or droppings nearby
Alternative Options for Moving Boxes
Recycling Your Boxes
If you decide not to store boxes, recycling them is quite simple and rewarding with the right tips and tricks. Most areas accept cardboard in curbside recycling programs.
To recycle properly:
- Remove all tape and labels
- Flatten boxes completely
- Check local recycling guidelines
- Bundle similar sizes together
Giving Boxes Away
Consider donating boxes to:
- Friends and family planning moves
- Local moving companies
- College students during move-in season
- Online community groups
- Charity organizations
Many people are happy to take boxes off your hands, especially during peak moving seasons in spring and summer.
Cost-Saving Benefits of Box Storage
Financial Impact
Storing moving boxes provides significant savings:
- Average box replacement cost: $2-5 per box
- Professional moving company box packages: $150-300
- Storage space cost: Often free in your own home
- Time savings: No shopping trips for boxes
The moving and storage industry contributes $92.2 billion in economic activity annually, showing how expensive moving can be. Every dollar saved on supplies helps.
Environmental Benefits
Reusing boxes also helps the environment by:
- Reducing cardboard waste in landfills
- Saving trees used for new box production
- Decreasing manufacturing energy use
- Supporting sustainable moving practices
Troubleshooting Common Storage Problems
Dealing with Limited Space
If storage space is tight:
- Focus on keeping only your most useful box sizes
- Store boxes inside larger boxes when possible
- Use vertical wall space more effectively
- Consider temporary storage during off-peak times
Handling Damaged Boxes
For boxes with minor damage:
- Reinforce corners with tape
- Use damaged boxes for storage only, not moving
- Combine materials from several damaged boxes
- Save intact pieces for packing services projects
Managing Different Box Types
Different box types need different storage approaches:
- Dish pack boxes: Store flat to prevent warping
- Wardrobe boxes: Remove hanging bars, fold flat
- Picture boxes: Keep components together
- Specialty boxes: Label clearly for easy identification
Working with Professional Movers
When to Let Pros Handle Storage
Professional local movers like those serving the Edmonton area can help with box storage solutions. Consider professional help when:
- You're planning another move soon
- You need storage solutions integrated with moving services
- You're downsizing and need temporary storage
- You're a senior who needs assistance with box management
Professional movers can also advise on the best boxes for your specific needs, whether you're moving apartments or handling long-distance moves.
Final Thoughts
Storing moving boxes properly is a smart way to save money and stay prepared for life's changes. By following these simple steps—cleaning, flattening, choosing the right location, and protecting from moisture and pests—your boxes will stay in great condition for years.
Remember that good box storage is an investment in your future. Whether you're planning another move, organizing your home, or helping friends relocate, having quality boxes ready to go makes everything easier and more affordable.
The key is finding the right balance between convenience and protection. Start with the basics: keep boxes dry, flat, and accessible. As you get more experienced with box storage, you can explore advanced techniques like climate control and professional storage solutions.
Ready to make your next move easier? Keep those boxes safe and organized—your future self will thank you for the preparation and savings.
