How Much Do Moving Boxes Cost
Are you relocating soon? Well, it is time for you to pack your belongings up. And when speaking of packing up, do not forget to use moving boxes. These boxes are a lot sturdier than the usual cardboard boxes that make them perfect for relocation purposes no matter how near or far the distance is. But before shopping for moving boxes, read this article further to know the cost of moving boxes in today’s market as well as some tips on shopping for these items.
The Cost Of Moving Boxes
The cost of moving boxes ranges from $1 to $10 each.
This estimate refers to a piece of a brand new moving box alone. The lower end of the estimate refers to small boxes while the higher end refers to bigger and specialty moving boxes.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Moving Boxes
Size. The most common determinant of the cost of moving boxes is the size. Small boxes cost $1 to $1.70 while medium boxes cost $2 to $2.75. Large boxes cost $3 while extra large ones cost $3.75 or more.
Specialty. There are some boxes that can go as much as $14 per piece. These are specialty boxes that are designed for specific items. Some specialty boxes are dish packs, file boxes, wardrobe boxes, and picture frame containers. These boxes are designed to conveniently and safely carry specific items for a more successful and convenient packing, transporting, and unpacking. Wardrobe moving boxes are the most expensive of all specialty boxes. They cost around $14 per piece. Other specialty boxes cost $4 to $10 apiece.
Quality. Boxes are manufactured with different strengths. The stronger the box is, the more expensive its price goes. You can find small boxes that may be a little more expensive than a slightly bigger box simply because it is sturdier and is designed for heavier items.
Quantity. Most stores price moving boxes per piece cheaper if you are buying in bulk. For instance, a bundle of 20 medium boxes will cost only $40 even if the price per box is $2.35. You'll likely save $7 for buying moving boxes in bulk.
Condition. The prices quoted above refer to brand new moving boxes. There are used moving boxes for sale that are sold at half the price of brand new boxes.
Kit. At times, it is more practical to purchase a moving kit instead of purchasing items separately. For instance, you'll have to spend around $65 to $90 only for a moving kit for a one-bedroom apartment. This kit already contains 15 to 30 moving boxes, a roll of tape, and a marker. Other kits for bigger homes run from $150 to $400 with more number of boxes and other moving supplies.
Additional Costs
Shipping may be an extra cost when buying moving boxes. This is especially true if you purchase the boxes online.
In line with the moving boxes, you need other packing materials for the relocation. This includes tape, box marker, and fillers.
Tips Before You Buy Moving Boxes
Shop around for moving boxes in various stores. You’ll likely find different prices from one store to another.
Make sure the moving boxes are of good quality. Strength is one good indication of the quality of the boxes. This is especially true if you have important and expensive items in your inventory.
Estimate the number of boxes you need for the entire move. It is important for you to have a good estimate of the number of boxes you need so you can order them in just one transaction. Take note that the more boxes you buy in one transaction, the more discounts you can get from the store.
Be careful when shopping for moving boxes online. Make sure the store you are transacting with is credible and reliable enough to not scam you with your purchase.
If you are considering used moving boxes, take note that it is not only the cheaper price tag that you must be after. A good used moving box must have the following characteristics:
- has clean interior
- still sturdy and in good condition
- has plenty of space for new labels
Always choose moving boxes over ordinary cardboard boxes. Moving boxes have a higher score in the Edge Crush Test (ECT) and Burst Strength Test than ordinary ones. The ECT refers to the degree the box can keep its structure and effectiveness of the box when stacked on top of another. Moving boxes usually have an ECT score of 32 or greater and so they are better for moving. On the other hand, the Burst Strength Test measures how effectively the box can hold together given a particular weight. Moving boxes have a value of 200 pounds or greater in this test. Hence, they can carry more weight without being ripped or crushed.
Different Moving Boxes For Different Packing Needs
Take note that the right moving box is your key towards a more convenient, more reliable, and safer moving experience. Here are the different types of moving boxes and the best things to pack in them:
Small boxes (16x12x12 or 15x12x10 inches). Good for small but heavy items such as tools and books as well as small but delicate items like DVDs and CDs.
Medium boxes (18x18x16 or 18x14x12 inches). Good for kitchenware, books, toys, and small appliances.
Large boxes (18x18x24 or 20x20x16). Good for lightweight and bulky items such as speakers, lampshades, other electronic equipment, clothing, and stuffed animals.
Extra-large boxes (24x18x24 or 23x23x16 inches). Good for lightweight and bulky items such as towels, pillows, linen, and comforters.
Wardrobe moving boxes (24x24x40 inches). These are extra strong boxes that are best used for packing up a dresser or closet. They come with metal rods to be used for hanging pressed clothes to avoid wrinkling and damage.
Frame/artwork moving boxes (41x6x26.5 inches). Good for packing large picture frames and mirrors. They are also good for large but thin items.
Kitchen moving boxes (18x18x23 inches). They are stronger boxes that make them perfect for kitchenware.
File moving boxes (16x12.5x10 inches). Good for packing home offices including files and other documents. These boxes come with lids so no tape is required for packing.
Cell kits (24x12x11 inches). The inside of these boxes are divided into small compartments, which are perfect for isolating and protecting fragile items like crystal, porcelain, and glassware.
Smaller electronics moving boxes (18x18x23). Good for computer monitors and other small-sized electronic equipments.
TV/microwave moving boxes. Good for TVs, microwaves, and stereo decks.
Cube boxes (12x12x12 inches). Good for cookie jars, glassware, crystal, canisters, etc.
Poster tubes (36x6x6x6 inches). Good for posters, paintings, and fishing equipment.
Wine shipping boxes. Boxes have Styrofoam base that fits whisky, wine, and champagne bottles.