Storage boxes are more than just making sure all your belongings fit into a defined space. Choosing the right box is important, both for organizational purposes and to keep all your belongings safe. Boxes come in different sizes and materials, and each type has an expected function. While it's certainly tempting to put everything in the largest box possible and call it a day, it's worth taking the time to make an informed choice and select the right box for the job.

Material of outdoor storage boxes

Aluminum boxes

Outdoor aluminum storage boxes are lightweight, collision-proof, anti-corrosion, shockproof, waterproof, acid-proof, provides ample camping storage space for just about anything. It can be used to store camping cookwares, drinkwares, Stoves, camp tools, foods & drinking, tents, hammocks, sleeping bags or even as a store all during camping or trailing trips.

Plastic Boxes

Plastic boxes are ideal for storage because they are easy to stack and can better protect your items from moisture, heat and anything else that might try to get in. You don't have to worry about packing tape either, as plastic boxes are self-sealable. They are more expensive than cardboard boxes, but because they are relatively indestructible, you can use them for a longer period of time.

Specialty Boxes

For particularly fragile or valuable items, consider using specialty boxes designed for safe storage of specific types of items. Specialty boxes are suitable for everything from storing tableware and holiday decorations to artwork and flat-screen TVs, and are available in both cardboard and plastic. One of the biggest benefits of using specialty boxes for storage is that they make it easier to pack difficult things, and inserts keep items from moving around and shifting. They are a little more expensive than traditional boxes, but offer advantages in terms of convenience and security.

About storage box sizes

Small Boxes

A standard small box is approximately 16 x 12.5 x 12.5 or 1.5 cubic feet. They are ideal for packing small, heavy items that might add too much weight to a larger box containing more items, such as books, and fragile items such as plates and vases. Most small boxes can safely hold up to 60 pounds, but for safety reasons, it is usually not recommended to pack them heavier than 50 pounds.

Medium-sized boxes

A standard medium-sized box is approximately 18 x 18 x 16 or 3 cubic feet. Use these to store larger items that don't have to be packed tightly, including clothes, pots and pans and toys. A medium box can safely hold about 65 pounds.

Large Boxes

A standard large box is approximately 18 x 18 x 24 or 4.5 cubic feet. They are suitable for items such as bed linens and blankets, lamps and small kitchen utensils. Although they are larger than medium-sized boxes, they have roughly the same weight capacity of 65 pounds, so don't overpack them.

Oversized boxes

A standard oversized box is about 24 x 18 x 24 or 6.1 cubic feet. They can carry up to about 70 pounds, but if you overpack them, they will be difficult to lift, so keep that in mind when packing them. Store less suitable items in smaller boxes, such as pillows and quilts, winter coats and larger kitchen utensils.

Tips for storing boxes

Think quality

Whichever type and size box you use, make sure it is of high quality. This means no cracks or tears, and no pre-existing water damage. Even just sitting in a storage unit can put stress on a box, so you want to start with a sturdy and well-formed box.

Stack wisely

How you stack your boxes is as important as the boxes you choose. Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones, and while you should take advantage of vertical space, resist the urge to stack all the way to the ceiling. Clearly mark your boxes so you know not to store anything on top of boxes containing fragile items.

Don't forget to mark

No matter what type of boxes you use, label them so you know what's inside. This is especially important for storage because you're less likely to remember where everything is when you need to unload a device or need to find a specific item.

Fill in the gaps

To prevent shifting, fill any gaps between stacked boxes with extra packing material, towels or sheets. This will keep things stable and help you avoid unnecessary shifting.

Keep all of the above factors in mind when choosing storage bins and remember that the most important thing is to store your items safely in order to keep them in good condition. While it's not always possible to fully predict what your boxes may face while in storage, give reasonable consideration to the type of facility you're storing them in and the length of time they'll be there. Need some help getting mobile boxes? Visit our Box Center.