Is It Better to Move with Plastic Bins or Boxes?

Yes, for most moves, cardboard boxes are better than plastic bins. While plastic bins offer better water protection and can be reused many times, cardboard boxes stack better, cost less, and are the industry standard for good reasons.

This guide will help you choose the right containers for your move. We'll look at cost, safety, and which works best for different types of moves.

Why Most Moving Companies Recommend Cardboard Boxes

Most moving companies across the country prefer cardboard boxes for most moves. Since 1997, U-Pack has been helping people move across the country, and their experience leads them to recommend using boxes instead of moving with plastic containers. Research from the moving industry shows that professional movers handle approximately 650,000 relocations per year, giving them extensive experience with different container types.

Professional movers know that boxes work better because they stack edge-to-edge without sliding around. This keeps your stuff safer during transport.

The Problem with Plastic Bin Shape

Plastic bins have a big weakness - their shape. Most plastic bins are wider at the top than the bottom. This V-shape means they can't stack as tightly as square boxes.

Because of their "V shape" totes inevitably get crushed when they are stacked and the crushing process places a great deal of pressure on the contents of the tote below it which results in damage to the contents within the tote.

When moving companies stack containers floor to ceiling in trucks, cardboard boxes stay strong. Plastic bins often crack under the weight.

Cost Comparison: Bins vs Boxes

Money matters when you're moving. Let's break down the real costs of each option.

Cardboard Box Costs

• Small boxes: $1-3 each
• Medium boxes: $2-5 each
• Large boxes: $3-8 each
• You can often find free boxes at stores

Plastic Bin Costs

Plastic bins cost between $10 and $30 per box. Even for a small move, like a studio apartment, you would need around 15 bins. That means buying plastic bins could cost $150-450 just for a studio apartment!

Rental Option for Plastic Bins

The good news is you don't have to buy plastic bins. Renting plastic moving boxes usually costs about $1.50 to $3 per box per week. This makes them much more affordable for short-term use.

Many moving companies now offer bin rental services that include delivery and pickup.

Durability and Protection

Both options protect your belongings, but in different ways.

When Plastic Bins Win

Plastic bins are great for:

• Rainy weather moves
• Items that need water protection
• Long-term storage after moving
• Items you can see through clear bins

Plastic bins can offer more waterproof and dust protection for your belongings. So, for moves in the rain or in the winter, these might be a great option.

When Cardboard Boxes Win

Professional moving boxes are stronger than you might think. Corrugated cardboard, which is specifically designed to move household goods in transit, are durable and do not break, unlike flexible plastic containers that can easily break when stacked.

Cardboard boxes work better for:

• Heavy items like books
• Fragile items when properly packed
• Long-distance moves
• Moves where you need many containers

Best Uses for Each Container Type

Choose Plastic Bins When:

Short Local Moves For moves across town, plastic bins work well. The shorter distance means less stacking and handling.

Weather Protection Needed Moving during winter or rainy season? Plastic bins keep moisture out better than cardboard.

You Plan to Reuse Them If you'll use the bins for storage later, buying or renting makes sense. Plastic bins for moving are the clear winners in the reusability stakes. They stay strong through many moves without tearing or getting soggy and can last five to fifteen years if you look after them.

Specific Items

• Electronics that need water protection
• Important documents
• Items you want to see without opening containers

Choose Cardboard Boxes When:

Long-Distance Moves Cardboard boxes are generally the better choice when shipping items long distance. They stack better and won't crack under pressure.

Heavy Items Books, tools, and kitchen items do better in smaller, sturdy boxes. You can choose the right size box for each item's weight.

Budget-Conscious Moves Free or cheap cardboard boxes help keep moving costs down.

Large Moves When you need 50+ containers, cardboard boxes are much more affordable.

Safety During Transport

Safety should be your top concern when moving. Here's what professional movers know about keeping your stuff safe.

How Boxes Stack Better

Cardboard boxes have flat surfaces that meet edge-to-edge. This creates a solid wall of containers that won't shift during transport.

Plastic bins often have curved sides, handles, and lips that prevent tight stacking. While tubs can be great on shelves in your garage, they can easily topple over when loaded in a moving truck. They also often have lids with lips and handles, making them difficult to stack.

Weight Distribution Problems

The angled design of a plastic tote means that when stacked, the entire weight of the tub sits on the center of the lid below it, which can lead to the plastic caving or cracking.

This weight concentration can damage both the bin and what's inside.

Professional Packing Tips

No matter which container you choose, proper packing keeps your belongings safe:

• Don't overpack any container
• Use bubble wrap or packing paper for fragile items
• Fill empty spaces so items don't shift
• Label everything clearly
• Keep heavy items in small containers

Our packing services can help ensure your items are protected properly.

Environmental Impact

Both options can be environmentally friendly, depending on how you use them.

Cardboard Environmental Benefits

According to the EPA's latest data, corrugated boxes had a recycling rate of 96.5% in 2018. When recycled, cardboard is used to make paper towels, tissues, paper, and chipboard containers (like cereal boxes).

Cardboard boxes:

• Break down naturally in 2-3 months
• Can be recycled easily
• Are made from renewable resources
• Have a smaller carbon footprint for one-time use

The EPA reports that paper and paperboard materials comprised the largest component of municipal solid waste in 2018, highlighting the importance of proper recycling.

Plastic Environmental Benefits

Plastic bins win if you reuse them many times. Can be repurposed after the move to be more eco-friendly.

The key is making sure you'll actually use them again. If they sit in your garage unused, cardboard would have been better for the environment. According to National Geographic, about 8 million tons of plastic waste enters the oceans from coastal nations every year, making proper reuse critical.

Special Situations and Solutions

Moving in Bad Weather

Rain or snow during moving day? Plastic bins protect your belongings from water damage. But you can also:

• Cover cardboard boxes with plastic wrap
• Load the truck carefully to avoid wet areas
• Choose professional movers who know how to protect your items

Storage After Moving

Planning to store items after your move? Consider your timeline:

Short-term storage (under 6 months): Cardboard boxes work fine in climate-controlled units.

Long-term storage (over 6 months): For long-term storage, plastic totes can hold moisture, causing mildew or mold on items. Cardboard allows for airflow, and you can completely seal boxes with packing tape, protecting them from bugs or critters.

Our storage solutions can help you choose the right approach.

Apartment Moves

Moving to or from an apartment? Consider these factors:

• Narrow hallways work better with smaller boxes
• Elevators have weight limits
• Stairs are easier with lighter containers
• Building rules might require specific moving times

Check out our apartment movers service for specialized help.

Smart Mixing Strategy

You don't have to choose just one type of container. Many smart movers use both:

Use plastic bins for:

• Bathroom items that might leak
• Important papers and documents
• Items you'll need right away at your new home
• Things you want to store long-term

Use cardboard boxes for:

• Books and heavy items
• Kitchen dishes and glassware
• Clothes and linens
• Furniture parts and hardware

This mixed approach gives you the benefits of both without breaking your budget.

Getting the Right Moving Help

Choosing containers is just one part of a successful move. Professional movers can help with:

• Proper packing techniques
• Loading trucks safely
• Protecting fragile items
• Handling heavy furniture

Whether you're moving locally within Edmonton or planning a long-distance move, having experienced help makes all the difference.

Questions People Ask About Moving Containers

Can I mix plastic bins and cardboard boxes in the same move?

Yes! Many people use plastic bins for special items and cardboard boxes for everything else. Just make sure to stack similar containers together.

Do plastic bins really last 15 years?

High-quality plastic bins can last that long with proper care. However, most people don't need containers for that many moves.

Are there free alternatives to buying boxes?

Yes! Try these places for free cardboard boxes:

• Liquor stores (wine boxes are strong)
• Grocery stores
• Office supply stores
• Friends who recently moved
• Online marketplaces

What size containers should I use?

Keep heavy items in small containers and light items in larger ones. A good rule: if you can't lift it easily when full, it's too big.

Do I need special boxes for dishes?

Dish packs (thick cardboard boxes) work better than plastic bins for fragile items. The cardboard absorbs shock better than hard plastic.

Final Thoughts

For most moves, cardboard boxes are your best choice. They're affordable, stack well, and keep your belongings safe during transport. Professional moving companies recommend them for good reasons.

However, plastic bins have their place. They work great for short local moves, items that need water protection, and things you'll store long-term.

The smartest approach? Use cardboard boxes for most of your stuff and plastic bins for special situations. This gives you the benefits of both without the high cost.

Ready to plan your move? Contact our team for expert advice on packing, containers, and making your move as smooth as possible. We've helped thousands of families move safely and affordably throughout Alberta.

Remember: the best container is the one that gets your belongings to your new home safely and fits your budget. Whether you choose boxes, bins, or both, proper packing and professional help make all the difference.