"Should I just buy boxes?" It's a fair question. Sometimes the answer is yes. Here's how to tell which side of the line you're on.

When buying wins

Buy your supplies when the math is simple: you move rarely, you have storage space, and you don't mind the labor. A homeowner settling in for a decade can buy 30 plastic totes, use them for the move, and then use them as garage storage for years. The totes earn their keep twice. No argument here — that's a good purchase.

Buying also wins when you're the "I'll deal with it" type who genuinely doesn't mind taping 40 boxes and breaking them down after. Some people find it satisfying. We don't judge. Much.

When renting wins

Consider these factors when comparing renting with buying:

You move every year or two. Each new crate rental has a cost, just as replacement boxes do. Reusing suitable boxes can keep purchases lower. Renting can still appeal if you value delivery, scheduled pickup and no crate storage between moves; frequent moves do not by themselves make rental cheaper.

You have nowhere to put 30 empty totes. A garage full of empties "for next time" is a storage problem you paid to create. Stored containers take up space, and their condition needs checking before reuse.

You would rather avoid some of the labor. Purchased boxes may need collection, assembly, taping and later storage or disposal. Rental crates arrive at your door and are collected at the scheduled pickup. The service may be worth the price difference to you; the time saved depends on your move.

Your move might stretch. Purchased boxes have no weekly holding charge, and a longer move does not itself require another box purchase. Extra crate-rental weeks cost $15–$150 depending on package size and must be arranged before the scheduled pickup. Either option can need more containers if you underestimate your belongings; budget for the full rental period.

The actual prices

No deposit, paid in full at booking. These are first-week rental prices and starting recommendations; adjust the package to your belongings:

• 10 crates: $139 — a smaller option; $4.15 small-order fee also applies to a one-week rental
• 20 crates: $169 — studio
• 30 crates: $199 — one bedroom
• 40 crates: $225 — two bedrooms
• 60 crates: $275 — three bedrooms
• 80 crates: $325 — four bedrooms
• 100 crates: $399 — five bedrooms or more

Every package includes one dolly per 10 crates, moving labels, delivery, and pickup. The 10-crate, one-week rental totals $143.15 with its small-order fee. Applicable distance charges, tax, optional supplies, extra weeks, and other applicable charges are separate. Damage charges are: $39.95 per crate, $99.95 per dolly. Follow the equipment's handling instructions and account for the applicable rental terms.

The one-line version

Compare the full rental cost with buying and reusing suitable supplies, including the time and space each option needs. Choose the option that fits your move.

Not sure which you are? Our room-by-room guide offers a starting point for estimating your crate count. Then pick your package, or call or text (888) 615-2699 and we'll talk you into the right size — even if the right size is "just buy the totes."