Should you invest in plastic bins for your move? Even though
your local grocer has piles of broken down cardboard boxes you can often get
for free, take a look at what you need to know about reusable bins.
Are Plastic Bins Waterproof?
The answer to this question is yes - and no. While some
plastic bins can keep water out, this type of container isn't always completely
waterproof or watertight. This means that water and other types of moisture (such
as interior humidity or dew) could get inside.
A rainy moving day, leak in your old or new home, or high
humidity could put your belongings at risk for water damage or mold growth. If
you have concerns about these issues, but still want to use plastic bins for
your move, consider:
- The
fit of the lid. Does the lid tightly seal around the top of the bin?
The better the fit, the more moisture the container can keep out. To get
the tightest seal, only use the lid that came with the bin.
- The
quality of the container. A flimsy plastic bin may easily crack. This
can let water or humidity-related moisture in. Beyond wear and tear
issues, a low quality container may not close completely. This could leave
your to-move items open to damage.
- What
you plan to move in the bin. An over-filled bin may bulge, leaving you
unable to completely seal the top. This decreases the bin's ability to
keep out water.
If you're still not sure whether the bin is watertight, test
it before your moving day. Place something that can get wet inside. Put the bin
outside in the rain, use a hose to soak it, or place it in the shower. Wipe the
wet exterior of the bin, open it, and look for signs of moisture inside.
Can Plastic Bins Hold Heavy Items?
Again, the answer to this question is yes and no. Plastic
bins are typically sturdier than cardboard boxes. But this doesn't mean the
container can hold every item you need to move. Before you select a bin or pack
your belongings:
- Read
the label.
The manufacturer may provide information on how much weight
the bin can hold.
- Consider
the overall weight and transportation.
Just because a bin can hold 10
or more pounds doesn't mean you should fill it with a library of heavy
books or another weighty item. An overloaded bin is difficult to lift or
could cause physical strain.
- Keep
track of how often you reuse the container.
The more you reuse the
bin, the more stress you put on the plastic. If the bin has clear signs of
wear, cracks, or other types of damage, don't use it for heavy items.
The fewer bins you use, the heavier each one may need to be.
If you have heavy items, buy more bins for the move. Even though this comes at
an added expense, it can save you money in potential damage (if a bin breaks)
and reduce the risk of lifting-related injuries.
Are Plastic Bins Expensive?
Plastic bins typically cost more than cardboard boxes -
especially if the boxes are free from a retailer or containers you've chosen to
reuse. Even though you'll need to pay for bins, the benefits may outweigh the
costs. The cost-saving benefits include the ability to reuse the containers
move after move or in storage. Bins also offer a higher level of protection,
potentially reducing move-related damage.
Do you need help with your next residential move? Contact
our team at Los Flores Movers
for more information or to schedule our help with your next move.
