Container Selections for Long Term Storage

Organization is the first step to efficiency. In considering your office or workplace, this aspect entails developing policies and thinking about long-term storage solutions for equipment and supplies.

While shelves and cabinets come in handy, containers often have an edge for certain items. Based on construction, they fully contain your supplies, keeping everything dry and clean in the process, and frequently are stackable.

Whether you’re organizing a supply closet or a larger space, consider these recommendations for the best containers for long-term storage in the workplace:

Considerations for Storage Containers and Bins

From single desks to supply closets to more complex storage systems, your workplace requires clear organizational procedures to function. This can affect how quickly your employees find office supplies to, in a warehouse, how you manage inventory.

Organization and storage starts small, from individual planners and desk organizers to large labeled bins for equipment and supplies. As no solution is uniform, you’re advised to ask yourself about the following:

·         What will you be storing? Consider the items, including size, storage conditions and weight.

·         Where you will be storing said items. Are you limited to a single room, where you’ll need stackable containers to conserve and maximize your space, or can you spread out your strategy? How frequently will the containers be carried and opened?

Basic Attributes of a Storage Container

Along with these points, familiarize yourself with key aspects of storage containers for offices and workplaces:

·         Materials: Choices tend to be divided between low- and high-density polyethylene and polypropylene, known for a more rigid construction. Polypropylene is more common for transparent storage containers and better handles high temperatures, while polyethylene withstands colder conditions without cracking.

·         Lid types: A lid that’s attached, either through a single latch or interlocking design, tends to be more secure and easier to close. As well, single-size lids offer a more interchangeable, versatile solution.

·         Waterproof construction: Are you protecting documents or other items from moisture? Look for a container that’s fully waterproof — even in humid conditions.

·         Stackable construction: If you’ll be storing items vertically, stackable construction helps you make the most of all available room. Look for bins that nest into each other that won’t fall over once stacked.

Best Containers for Long-Term Storage in Your Workplace

Stackable Containers and Bins

These storage containers tend to offer multi-purpose construction and help you make the most of all available cubic feet. With straight sides, more uniform bodies and a tighter seal around the edge, stackable containers hold a number of items and can be placed in several locations throughout your facility — from supply closets to warehouse areas.

Realize that these containers come in a number of sizes and configurations, from larger, individual industrial options that can be stacked on top of each other to hanging bins and boxes designed to be used with an organizer.

Clear Plastic Bins

Clearly identify the contents simply by looking at the box. Clear polypropylene offers this capability, with boxes designed to be stacked in conjunction with an organizer.

Polyethylene or Brute Totes

Although these containers primarily stand on a domestic reputation, they’re an asset in commercial spaces, too. Constructed out of high-density polyethylene, Brute totes resist a wider range of temperatures, block out moisture and have a carry-friendly design.

Wheeled Totes or Containers

You can’t lift everything — and you shouldn’t need to. Wheeled totes anticipate larger or heavier items needing storage. These pair ample interior room with a wheeled base that you can push or drag.

Interlocking Lid Containers

Also known as attached lid containers, this storage solution offers a two-fold benefit. A latch-free design requires little-to-no strength to open, limiting struggling and frustration. At the same time, the interlocking flip-top design is integrated into the container: This means fewer misplaced lids, and lets you effortlessly keep the contents secure. Interlocking lid containers may also be stackable.

Lightweight Plastic Totes

Also called space-age totes, these pair lightweight, open construction with molded, easy-grip handles and a sturdy frame designed to support up to 80 pounds, making them ideal for warehouse picking-and-packing operations and shipping.

As you’re exploring organizational solutions for your office, work with Packaging HERO®. Along with our selection of storage containers, request a personalized consultation for a more tailored solution, supplement your operations with additional storage space, and access our platform 24-7 to order what you need. Ready to get started? Sign up today to become a Purchasing HERO™.