Outlived only by styrofoam but much sturdier.  While these things have been around for quite some time they’ve come into their own for household moving in a big way.  They’re virtually indestructable, waterproof and practically unbreakable.  While their one downside has always been cost, the growing number of manufacturers has brought many of these near perfect moving solution’s cost almost as low as their cardboard competitors in some cases.  What I’m referring to of course is the the plastic tote.  Available in sizes that are very convenient for moving and some that have no place in household moving.

The sizes we want to use for moving should be sized as closely to standard moving cardboard boxes as possible.  Keep in mind cardboard boxes have in a word “evolved” for movers to carry as many as items at once without personal risk of injury, convenience on dollies and access through doorways.  The sizes we’re looking for will be around 1.5 cubic ft (17″x15″x10″) for books and paper, 3.5+/-cu ft for general utility (20″x20″x15″)  but nothing very heavy and 4.0-5.0 cu ft for our lightest items (25″x20″x16″) such as folded clothing, sheets, pillows and light, non-fragile knick knacks.   These are approximate sizes but please do not go overboard when packing heavy items as boxes over 50lbs cost at least double to move for a good reason.

A couple very attractive reasons to purchase these, especially if you move relatively often, is their durability and the fact they these boxes are practically waterproof.  They also stack so a large number can be stowed away in a closet, garage or storage shed out of sight until the next time you need them.  The most attractive reason of all is that within two moves or one good sale, you’ve procured a lifetime supply of boxes that just might outlast you.  Imagine the joy on your grandkids face when they inherit a such a thoughtful heirloom.  I almost to forgot to mention, at least with the namebrand varieties, no tape is needed.  All the seals of the many I’ve moved proved durable and secure.   Another upside; added protection over cardboard boxes.  These things are tough but don’t be tempted to cut corners when packing.  Remember, movers do not insure boxes (nor totes) not packed themselves.  Totes also make great portable storage for projects around the house and in the yard.

There is a downside to everything.  Many of the more common boxes are very reasonably priced in the large sizes, say 3.5cu ft and up but the smaller totes, the ones we use for papers and books can be difficult to find at a reasonable price.  A little Googling, Yahooing and Binging can solve those problems in minutes.  There are many smaller boxes perfectly sized for books and papers and at surprisingly low costs, about double their cardboard counterparts.  I was just checking on one of the “Marts” and their 5G containers are a perfect replacement for “book boxes”.

Always remember, as will all boxes, if you want the cartons placed in certain places, please write both on the top and at least two sides so the movers just can’t miss.   Don’t forget to add a few Sharpies to your moving arsenal.

As a general size guideline since these are most often measured in gallons and not cubic feet:

5-10 gallons   = book boxes.  10 gallons of text books might be left behind. (attempting to replace the standard 1.5 cubic foot book box)

15-20 gallons = medium boxes, general utility boxes  (attempting to replace the standard 3.0-3.5 medium box)

30 gallons (close to replacing 4.5cu ft or typical large box)        =  makes for an excellent large box.   40gallon Totes can be pushing it but can be convenient if only packed with the lightest of  your wares.

*You’ll know you’ve overdone it if the movers leave any extra bulky totes behind.  ;)

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