Comparison
Reusable moving boxes vs cardboard
See why Madison movers are ditching cardboard for plastic totes — and what it means for your move.
Side by side
Totes win on strength, speed, and cleanup
A quick comparison for a typical Madison move.
| Feature | Mad City Totes | Cardboard boxes |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly time | Zero — ready to pack | Tape and fold every box |
| Strength | Holds up to 65 lbs, stacks 4 high | Buckles when wet or overloaded |
| Lids / closure | Latched, no tape needed | Tape every seam and flap |
| Moving day speed | Dolly moves 6–8 totes at once | Carry 1–2 boxes at a time |
| Weather protection | Water-resistant plastic | Soggy, collapses in rain |
| Waste after move | Zero — we pick them up | Dozens of boxes to break down |
| Cost for a 2-bed move | $155 (2-week rental) | $80–$150 + tape + time |
| Storage shape | Uniform stack, latches shut | Bulky, uneven piles |
Why totes are better
- No tape, no box assembly, no crushed corners.
- Industrial plastic holds 65 lbs and stacks four high without collapsing.
- A dolly rolls 6–8 totes at once — fewer trips up and down stairs.
- Water-resistant lids protect dishes and books from rain.
- We deliver and pick up — nothing to break down or haul to the curb.
When cardboard might still make sense
- Odd-shaped items like lamps, artwork, or open shelving.
- Last-minute moves where you can't schedule a delivery window.
- You already have free boxes from a recent move or workplace.
Most customers use a mix: totes for the heavy, stackable stuff and a few boxes for the irregulars.
Cost
What a typical Madison move costs
Packages include the totes, a dolly, reusable labels, and free delivery and pickup.
Studio
Studios and small downtown apartments
$99
2-week rental
20 totes + dolly + labels
1-Bedroom
One-bedroom apartments and condos
$119
2-week rental
30 totes + dolly + labels
2-Bedroom
Two-bedroom apartments and small homes
$155
2-week rental
40 totes + dolly + labels
FAQ
Common questions about totes vs cardboard
Ready to skip the cardboard?
Reserve your totes online and we'll confirm your delivery window within 2 hours during business hours.