Things to Consider when Buying Plastic Storage Bins

Let’s talk plastic storage bins, okay? It may seem a little silly to worry about such things, but the fact is, how you choose to store your things does matter. Taking the time to learn how to do it right helps your belongings stay damage-free, and it ensures they last as long as possible.

So, let’s discuss plastic storage bins, shall we? These convenient containers are the best choice for keeping your things safe during storage. But, what should you look for when buying them? Are there different kinds for different storage needs? What features make a storage bin a good one?

The answers to these questions and more are below. If you’re thinking it’s time to get organized, here are the things to consider when buying plastic storage bins.

What Do You Need to Store?

The type and quantity of things you want to store will determine the type of storage bins you should purchase. Rather than trying to estimate what you’ll need, pull everything out to physically see what you have and how much you have. You may find you actually have more things to store than you thought.

This is a good time to get rid of things you no longer use or don’t want anymore. It’s also a good time to return anything you borrowed from someone else and never gave back. Less is more when it comes to storing your things, especially if you’re storing them in a small space like a closet.

Will the Storage Bins Fit Where You Intend to Store Them?

So, it’s good that you now have a good idea of the quantity and size of storage bins you need, but the next consideration is, will they fit where you want to put them?

If you’re using a self storage unit, you probably don’t have to worry so much about this consideration – at least in terms of available space. However, if you’re storing your stuff at home, space is probably more limited, so it’s a valid concern.

The best way to make sure the storage bins you buy will fit where you want to store them is to measure the space you have and then buy accordingly.

How Will You Pack for Weight?

In the last consideration, we mentioned something about not having to worry too much about space if you plan to store your things with a storage facility. What you do have to worry about, however, is how heavy the plastic storage bins get as you pack them. Needing heavy equipment to move your boxes once they’re packed is inconvenient and expensive if you have to rent it, so think as you pack.

For example, if you’re packing books, don’t fill large storage bins entirely with books. Lifting them is a back problem just waiting to happen, that’s for sure. Instead, line the bottom of a bin with a couple of layers of books, then fill the rest with lighter weight items such as sheets, towels, or clothing.

Handles and Lids  – What’s Best?

You may think the handles and lids are the least of your worries when it comes to plastic storage bins, but truth be told, they are actually what differentiates a good bin from a bad bin.

For instance, some bins have handles built into their lids. This poor design is a recipe for disaster, as the lid can come loose from the bin as you’re carrying it and damage your things. The best bins have sturdy handles built right into the bins themselves so a flimsy lid alone doesn’t carry the weight of the container.

As for the lid, we’re going to assume you want to stack your storage bins when you store them, so the lid is very important. It should be sturdy, and ideally, include strategically placed grooves and lips that fit with the underside of the box being stacked atop it to prevent sliding. Take a moment in the store to stack the bins you’re considering to make sure they stack well and “lock” into place.

That’s it. You now know everything you need in order to purchase the right plastic storage bins for your storage needs. Whether you’re placing your things in a storage unit or in your own bedroom closet, the containers and boxes you use will determine how well your things fare in storage.