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I was thinking about using ABF for a move. (may just put most stuff in storage, what we don't sell, since we are kinda in limbo and don't want to move our junk if we don't have to at this time)
Regardless of what we do, storage unit or ABF trailer, we have about 15 totes, mostly mediuim size and 20-30 small-med size boxes. I was wondering if the plastic totes take up too much unnecessary space?
The boxes can be broken down, and will take up less space that way.
Although the totes can't be broken down they can be stacked on top of each other, and in most cases stacked within each other. Then put the tote lids, if you have them, inside the top tote for storage.
Either way you're not looking at alot of storage space for what you have.
Another thing to consider is, if you're looking at long term storage, the boxes can and will absorb moisture. Thereby increasing the chance of mold and mildew growing on whatever is stored in the boxes. You won't have that concern with plastic totes.
I would use totes for things that will be permanently stored in the totes and cardboard boxes for things you will unpack fairly soon. Hard plastic totes are a little fragile, so I avoid those.
For linens and clothing, consider the bags that can be compressed with a vacuum. That really reduces the space they occupy.
Consider the weight, whatever you choose. Several smaller containers would be better than one giant one, if you are doing the lifting.
It is easier to load the containers if they are more or less the same size, too.
Our last move to our new house was only a few miles from our old house. We hired some guys to help us and I had Rubbermaid totes for a lot of the items. They were convenient for keeping things in the basement after the move. Not sure but I read bugs like cardboard......
If you are just using them for the move and plan on emptying them when you get to your destination, use boxes. My movers were so happy that I had boxes instead of totes as the totes do take up more space and do not stack as well. Especially sitting next to each other, there is that empty floor space. They tend to tip over and shift more due to them being plastic and not as tightly packed together.
But, if you are going to keep things in them at the new place, some totes would be good for that stuff as boxes do attract the bugs and moisture. Although, I have had spiders get into some totes too. Ick.
Our last move to our new house was only a few miles from our old house. We hired some guys to help us and I had Rubbermaid totes for a lot of the items. They were convenient for keeping things in the basement after the move. Not sure but I read bugs like cardboard......
Yup, bugs like cardboard. Roaches will happily live in cardboard boxes, munching away. Also, mice and rats (and packrats) will chew cardboard for nesting material.
Location: Prescott Valley, Az (unfortunately still here)
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I use both cardboard boxes and the plastic tubs to put my things in whenever I move. And if it's a permanent move (you'll never move again), then you can get rid of the plastic tubs and the boxes can always be broken down and stored away.
But my clothes and such go into all my suitcases and my 3 duffle bags that I still have from my Army days (they are always useful when carrying lots of clothes with you).
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