Whether your precious items are going on a moving truck or being dropped off at a shipping company, protection is always key. After all, you want your belongings to arrive safely and without damage.

Sometimes a cardboard box can’t provide enough protection, it may not even be large enough to hold your stuff, and this is usually when you start looking at crates as an alternative. You can use a step-by-step guide to crate assembly since building one yourself is actually relatively easy.

Another option is purchasing a fully assembled crate. Once you decide if you’re going to build or buy, the next step is figuring out the type of crate. Yes, there’s more than one type of moving crate and each has its best applications.

Wooden Crates

Chances are when you think of crates wood ones come to mind. Wooden crates are the most common, and you can craft one at home without too much trouble. Grab some plywood or boards, nails, and a hammer, and you can build a wooden crate.

You can also skip this step and purchase one from most shipping and moving companies. Sometimes, it’s easier to purchase a crate instead of building one. You can easily find the right size and design for your item.

Wooden crates are typically divided into a few categories. The crates can be open, slated, or completely closed. If your crate is heading to a moving truck or a shipping company, it’s usually best to go with a completely closed one. This type of crate provides the best protection for your items.

Sturdy, reusable, and stackable, wood crates are perfect for packing a wide variety of items. However, while wooden crates are a great eco-friendly option they aren’t the best option if you’re packing temperature-sensitive items. You can’t control the temperature inside a wooden crate.

Plastic Crates

Plastic crates are inexpensive, stackable, and sturdy. Best of all, you can find them in almost any size. Something to consider before grabbing a plastic crate is the weight limit. Even though plastic crates are sturdy, they’re not the best option for heavier items.

Although you can pack lighter items safely away in plastic crates, they’re not regularly used in residential moves. Ecommerce, retail, and pharmaceutical industries tend to use plastic crates to ship items to physical locations like stores and online customers.

If you’re considering going with a plastic crate, always check the weight limit. The last thing you want is your item falling out when a mover picks up the crate.

Metal Crates

Everything from furniture to art and other potentially fragile items can safely go into a metal crate. Typically made from steel or aluminum, metal crates are durable and weather-resistant. Weight limits on items are rarely an issue. You can find metal crates sturdy enough to hold almost anything.

A potential downside to metal crates is the price. This type of packing crate is typically priced higher than wooden and plastic ones. Moisture can also be an issue, so consider the item before grabbing a metal crate. 

With the right type of crate, you can easily and safely move your belongings over short and long distances.