Moving Boxes 101: 6 Types of Boxes Every Move Can Benefit From

Whether you prefer to pack and transport all your belongings yourself or hire professional moving and packing services in San Diego to do it for you, having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference in how you approach this crucial task. 

In previous articles, we explained what full packing and moving services do and how they calculate their prices. Now we’ll go in-depth on one aspect of a move that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves: the different types of moving boxes and the role they play in making your big moving day as worry-free as possible. Keep reading to learn more.

What boxes to use for moving?

Moving boxes come in many different sizes and shapes. From corrugated cardboard boxes to hefty, wooden crates, you can rest assured there’s a moving box available to fit every item in your home. 

Here are 6 types of moving boxes you’ll probably need:

1. Large cardboard boxes

These 18-24 inch long boxes are used to pack big, lightweight items such as blankets, clothing, bedding, paper towels, toilet paper, pillows, and so on. If you don’t have many belongings, you’ll probably only need a handful of these.

2. Medium cardboard boxes

At 14-18 inches long, these are by far the most popular type of moving box. They’re great for moving small to medium-size household items such as vases, pans, pots, toys, picture frames, clothing, bed linens, and so on.

3. Small cardboard boxes

This type of box is 12-14 inches long and is used to pack small, heavy items such as appliances, books, kitchenware, pantry items, and more. Due to their versatility and convenient size, they tend to see a lot of use in any move. 

4. Flat panel TV boxes

As their name suggests, these long, rectangular cardboard boxes are designed for moving both plasma and LED flat panel TVs. Every box should have a “this side up” indication to protect the screen during transportation.

5. Wardrobe boxes

Looking to transport hanging clothes without them getting wrinkled along the way? Wardrobe boxes are equipped with metal hanging bars and specifically designed to carry suits, dresses, and other sensitive clothes.

6. Dish and glassware boxes

These small or medium cardboard boxes have dividers inside them to make packing easier and keep dishes, glassware, and other fragile items safe during transit.

Is it better to move with boxes or totes?

There’s a reason why moving is commonly associated with large stacks of cardboard boxes. Although plastic totes are a popular storage option, they aren’t the ideal choice when it comes to packing for a move.

Here’s why:

• They tend to be more expensive than specialized moving boxes, so purchasing new ones just for your move is rarely a cost-efficient option. 
• They’re made of plastic, so they’re significantly less eco-friendly than cardboard boxes, which tend to be completely biodegradable.
• Unless they’re all the same size, plastic totes aren’t as easy to stack as boxes are. This can make them less practical in the context of a move.

Where can I book comprehensive moving and packing services in San Diego?

Have you gotten tired of the hustle and bustle of downtown life and you’re looking to relocate to a more peaceful neighborhood, such as the Village of La Jolla? Or perhaps you’ve decided to leave San Diego altogether and start a new life in a different city or even state?

Here at Move Central, we can help you do all that and more. As the leading moving company in California, we have the experience, the equipment, and the trained team necessary to meet all your moving and packing needs. Contact us today.