Ethan Clarke
Moving can be a stressful process, and one of the most important considerations is how to pack and transport your belongings safely and efficiently. One option is to use plastic bins, which offer several advantages over traditional cardboard boxes, including durability, water resistance, and the ability to protect fragile items. However, plastic bins may be more expensive and can be unstable when stacked. The number of plastic bins required for a move depends on factors such as the size of the home and the amount of inventory. For a studio apartment, a small number of bins may suffice, while a larger house with multiple rooms could require 70 or more bins. Renting plastic bins is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to purchasing them outright, and several companies offer this service.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of use | Plastic moving bins are easy to carry and lift due to their handles. They are also stackable, durable, and waterproof. |
| Cost | On average, one clear storage bin (72 qt) costs around $10. Renting plastic bins can be cheaper than buying cardboard boxes. |
| Eco-friendliness | Plastic bins are reusable and recyclable, making them a more sustainable option than cardboard boxes. |
| Accessibility | Clear plastic bins allow for quick access to items. |
| Protection | Plastic bins provide better protection for fragile items and are ideal for moving in rainy or winter conditions. |
| Rental options | Bin-It, BoxUpRental, Rent A Crate, Leafy Moving Boxes, and Piece of Cake Moving & Storage offer plastic bin rental services. |
| Number of bins needed | The number of bins required depends on the size of the move. For a three- or four-bedroom house, at least 70 plastic moving bins may be needed. |
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What You'll Learn
Renting plastic bins
Renting plastic moving bins is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to cardboard boxes. They are endlessly reusable, sturdy, and can be rented at a similar expense to cardboard boxes, without the added cost of tape.
When renting plastic moving bins, it is important to consider the size of your dwelling and the amount of inventory you have. Moving industry averages suggest that a studio or one-bedroom apartment generally requires about 20–25 bins, while a two-bedroom apartment may need approximately 35 bins. For larger homes, a three-bedroom house will typically use around 50 bins, and a four-bedroom home will likely need at least 70 bins.
It is recommended to order more bins than you initially think you will need to avoid additional delivery fees for extra totes. This can save you money in the long run. You may also want to consider renting a wardrobe box or two for easy transport of hanging clothes, protecting them from dirt and wrinkles.
Some companies that offer plastic moving bin rentals, such as Stack, provide free delivery and pickup within a certain radius of their live markets. They offer standard-size bins that measure 27" by 17" at the top, 24.5" by 14.5" at the bottom, and 13" tall, which is considered a perfect size for any move. Stack also provides dollies with their bins to make moving even easier.
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Packing fragile items
Choose the Right Containers:
Select sturdy, thick cardboard boxes or plastic moving bins that can withstand the weight of your items and potential punctures or shocks during transport. Plastic moving bins offer advantages such as being reusable, waterproof, and having handles for easier carrying. You can buy or rent these bins, and it's recommended to have more bins than you think you need to avoid additional delivery fees.
Use Protective Wrapping:
Wrap each fragile item individually in soft packing paper, bubble wrap, or both. The paper provides a shock-absorbing layer, while bubble wrap adds insulation and extra protection. For breakable items like glass or china, use towels, bed linens, or clothing as padding. Secure the wrapping with tape, especially for odd-shaped items, to prevent slipping and provide support.
Fill Boxes Securely:
Place wrapped fragile items in the boxes, ensuring they fit snugly with minimal empty space to prevent shifting during transport. Fill any remaining space with packing materials like packing paper, towels, or packing peanuts. Small boxes are preferable as they are easier to handle and reduce the risk of items moving around.
Label Boxes Clearly:
Clearly label each box containing fragile items as "fragile" or "handle with care." This will instruct movers to handle these boxes with extra care and pack them accordingly in the truck. Label the boxes with the rooms they belong to for easier unpacking and organisation. Keep a mental note of where specific fragile items are packed to avoid losing them in the unpacking process.
Take Your Time:
By following these instructions, you can confidently pack your fragile items and minimise the chances of breakage or damage during your move. Remember to use the right containers, protective wrapping, and filling techniques, and always label your fragile boxes clearly.
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Eco-friendly options
When it comes to moving, there are several eco-friendly options to consider instead of buying new cardboard boxes. These options are not only environmentally conscious but can also save you time and money.
One option is to rent reusable plastic bins. These bins are durable, stackable, and often cheaper than cardboard. They do not require assembly and can be rented for as long as you need, making them a convenient and cost-effective choice. Companies like Box Beaters, U-Haul, BoxUpRental, BinIt, Rent A Crate, and Leafy Moving Boxes offer plastic bin rentals.
Another option is to use earth-friendly moving kits, which include used boxes that have been quality inspected. These kits are a great way to reduce waste and are often more affordable than buying new boxes. Companies like UsedCardboardBoxes offer such kits with free shipping.
Additionally, some companies, like Big Green Moving Boxes and Chicago Green Box, provide rentable and reusable moving boxes made from recyclable materials. These boxes eliminate the use of cardboard and provide an efficient and eco-conscious approach to moving.
When using plastic bins, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the materials used. Plastic bins can be reused hundreds of times before needing to be recycled, making them a more sustainable option than cardboard in many cases. They are also waterproof, protecting your belongings from rain or moisture during transport.
Overall, by choosing eco-friendly options such as reusable plastic bins, earth-friendly moving kits, or rentable recyclable boxes, you can make your move more sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient.
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Stacking bins
Plastic bins are a great alternative to cardboard boxes when packing for a move. They offer benefits such as durability, reusability, weather-resistance, easily stackable, and provide superior protection for your belongings.
When packing, it is important to understand the limits of plastic bins. Overloaded or overflowing bins can collapse, creating a mess and damaging the items inside. Therefore, it is recommended to use the right type and number of bins for your move. The number of bins required will depend on the size of your home and the amount of inventory you have. For instance, a studio apartment typically requires about 20 moving bins, while a one-bedroom unit will need around 25-30 bins. If you have a two-bedroom apartment, you should plan for 35-45 bins, and for a three-bedroom home, you will likely need around 50-60 bins. For larger homes, such as a four-bedroom house, you may need 80 or more bins.
To efficiently pack and stack your plastic bins, follow these steps:
- Declutter: Before you start packing, go through your belongings and get rid of any items you no longer need. This will help reduce the number of bins you need and make the packing process more manageable.
- Choose the right bins: Select durable plastic bins made from high-density polyethylene. These bins should be lightweight yet impact-resistant and stackable.
- Pack carefully: Avoid overfilling the bins. Make sure all items are completely dry before packing, as moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth. Wrap fragile items in packing paper or bubble wrap, and use cushioning at the bottom of the bins. Fill any gaps inside the bins with packing paper or soft items to prevent shifting during transit.
- Seal and label: Once the bins are packed, seal them tightly to ensure they are watertight. Label the bins clearly, indicating the contents or the room they belong to. You can attach a piece of paper with clear packing tape instead of writing directly on the bins.
- Stacking: Plastic bins are designed to be stackable. When stacking the bins, ensure they are placed on a stable surface and stacked straight and level. Avoid overstacking, as it can lead to instability and increase the risk of bins toppling over.
- Transport and unpack: Plastic bins can be easily transported due to their durability and stackability. Once you reach your destination, carefully unload the bins and place them in their respective rooms based on the labels. Unpack the bins, taking care not to overload yourself or create a mess.
By following these steps and choosing the right number and type of plastic bins, you can ensure a smooth and efficient moving process, protecting your belongings during transit and making unpacking easier.
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Cost of plastic bins
The cost of plastic bins depends on whether you choose to buy or rent them. Plastic bins are more expensive than cardboard boxes, which can be purchased for a few dollars each. However, plastic bins are more durable and can be used multiple times, making them a good investment if you move frequently.
On average, a clear storage bin (72 qt) can cost around $10, with the price increasing depending on quality and manufacturer. If you are moving a three- or four-bedroom house, you will likely need at least 70 plastic bins, which could cost around $700.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, renting plastic bins may be a better choice. Companies like U-Haul, BoxUpRental, BinIt, Rent A Crate, and Leafy Moving Boxes offer plastic bin rental services. U-Haul, for example, charges $1.50 per box for one week and $1 per box for each additional week. This can be a cost-effective option, especially if you only need a few bins.
Bin-It is another popular choice for plastic bin rentals, offering free delivery and pick-up services. They provide various packages based on the size of your home and the number of bedrooms, ensuring you get the right amount of bins. Their prices are reasonable, and they offer flexible and responsive customer service.
Renting plastic bins can be a cheaper and more convenient option, especially if you don't plan on reusing the bins after your move. It eliminates the need for tape and the hassle of breaking down boxes afterward. Additionally, renting allows you to support eco-friendly practices by reusing and recycling the bins.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of plastic bins you need depends on the size of your home and the amount of inventory you have. If you're moving out of a single-family house, you'll likely need more bins than an apartment renter or a condo owner. Most people moving out of a three- or four-bedroom house need at least 70 plastic bins.
Plastic bins are more durable and waterproof than cardboard boxes, and they often come with handles and lids for easier transport. They can also be reused multiple times, making them a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, you don't need to assemble or tape them, saving you time and effort.
You can purchase or rent plastic bins from moving companies like BoxBeaters, U-Haul, BoxUpRental, BinIt, Rent A Crate, Leafy Moving Boxes, Piece of Cake Moving & Storage, and Avatar Relocation. These companies offer sanitized, recyclable, and affordable bins in various sizes.
