Wardrobe Boxes: What They Are and How to Use Them

By Amanda Lutz

Apr 13, 2023
Wardrobe boxes with clothes indoors

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Wardrobe boxes are sturdy containers that hold clothes, shoes, and accessories during a move. They come in several sizes and materials, such as corrugated cardboard or heavy-duty plastic, and often feature a bar for hanging clothes. Whether you’re planning a DIY move or working with professional movers, wardrobe boxes can simplify the process and keep your clothes pristine.

 


 

Why Should I Use Wardrobe Boxes?

Wardrobe boxes have several benefits that can save you time, money, and stress. First, they make packing and unpacking your clothes a breeze, as you can simply transfer them from your closet to the box and vice versa without removing them from their hangers or folding them. This saves you the hassle of having to reorganize your clothes when you arrive at your new home. 

Second, wardrobe boxes keep your clothes in good condition during transit or storage by preventing them from rubbing against each other or getting crushed by other items. This is especially important for delicate or expensive clothing items, such as formal dresses, suits, or coats.

Finally, wardrobe boxes can eliminate the need for post-move dry cleaning, as your clothes will arrive at your destination dust- and wrinkle-free and ready to wear.

 


 

Types of Wardrobe Boxes

Wardrobe boxes come in various sizes and styles. Here’s an overview of the most common types of wardrobe boxes available:

Tall Wardrobe Boxes

Tall wardrobe boxes are the most popular. They usually have a metal or plastic hanger bar that spans the width of the box, allowing you to hang multiple garments. Height varies by brand, but they typically range from 44 to 60 inches tall. The extra height makes them ideal for packing longer garments, such as dresses and suits.

Here are a few examples of tall wardrobe boxes from top brands and their costs:

BrandProduct NameBox Size (L x W x H)Price/Qty

U-Haul

Grand Wardrobe Box

24 x 21 x 48 in.

$15.95 each

U-Haul

Large Wardrobe Box

24 x 24 x 48 in.

$16.95 each

The Home Depot

Heavy-Duty Tall Wardrobe Moving Box

24 x 24 x 44 in.

$23.48 each; $38.58 for 2

Uline

Standard Wardrobe Box Kit

24 x 20 x 46 in.

$107.60 for 5; $211.30 for 10

Uline

Tall Wardrobe Box Kit

24 x 22 x 60 in.

$164.20 for 5; $309.20 for 10

Short Wardrobe Boxes

Short wardrobe boxes, also known as shorty wardrobes, are smaller and sometimes shallower than tall wardrobe boxes. They’re designed to hold shorter clothing items, such as shirts, blouses, and skirts. Most short wardrobe boxes are only 34 inches tall, making them easier to move, store, and ship.

Here are a few examples of short wardrobe boxes from top brands and their costs:

BrandProduct NameBox Size (L x W x H)Price/Qty

U-Haul

Shorty Wardrobe Moving Box

24 x 20 x 34 in.

$11.95 each

U-Haul

Small Wardrobe Moving Box

24 x 24 x 34 in.

$13.95 each

The Home Depot

Standard Wardrobe Moving Box

24 x 24 x 34 in.

$17.98 each; $30.81 for 2

Uline

UPSable Wardrobe Box Kit

24 x 20 x 34 in.

$77.75 for 5; $153.20 for 10

Specialty Wardrobe Boxes

There are several specialty wardrobe boxes in addition to the standard, tall, and short varieties. Here are a few examples:

 


 

How to Choose the Right Wardrobe Boxes

If you want to keep your clothes protected and organized during your move, it’s important to choose the right wardrobe boxes for your items. Use the tips below to narrow down your options.

Take Inventory

Take inventory of your closet to get an idea of the length and volume of hanging clothes you need to pack. Measure longer items so that you can choose a box that has enough space for them to hang freely without getting squished or wrinkled.

Consider Materials

A box’s material will affect its durability, weight, and eco-friendliness. For wardrobe boxes, you have two main options: cardboard or plastic. Corrugated cardboard, the most common material used in wardrobe boxes, is an affordable, sturdy, and recyclable option. Some heavy-duty boxes feature double-wall cardboard for extra protection, while others are made of 100% recycled cardboard.

A few companies offer plastic wardrobe boxes. These boxes are heavier than cardboard moving boxes, but they are also waterproof and extra-durable. As a result, they work better as long-term clothes storage boxes than moving boxes.

Compare Features

Consider product details beyond size and material. For instance, wardrobe boxes marketed as “EZ” or “easy-up” are easily foldable and require no tape to assemble, which can save you time and hassle. Other features to compare include the weight capacity, handhold placement, and edge crush test (ECT) rating. Some boxes even have reinforced edges or a moisture-resistant coating for added protection.

Browse Reviews

Finally, check reviews and ratings posted online by past customers. If you can, browse reviews on multiple retailer websites. Look for details and patterns that speak to the quality and durability of the boxes you’re considering.

 


 

How to Find Wardrobe Boxes

You can buy wardrobe boxes from several online and brick-and-mortar stores, such as the following:

If your goal is to find the highest-quality moving boxes available, start with companies that specialize in shipping boxes and moving supplies. These companies usually have the widest selection, making it easier to find the perfect boxes for your needs. Examples include Uline, Uboxes, and U-Haul.

Alternatively, look for a reputable brand sold at stores you already frequent, such as Walmart or The Home Depot. For instance, several national retailers stock Bankers Box products—including the brand’s SmoothMove wardrobe moving boxes. Many retailers offer two-day shipping or in-store pickup on the same business day.

 


 

Cost of Wardrobe Boxes

To give you an idea of what wardrobe boxes cost at different stores, here are a few prices we found for tall wardrobe boxes:

RetailerProductPrice

U-Haul

Large Wardrobe Box

$16.95 each

The Home Depot

Heavy-Duty Tall Wardrobe Moving Box

$23.48 each; $38.58 for two

Uline

Tall Wardrobe Box Kit

$32.84 each, minimum of five

Walmart

Bankers Box SmoothMove Tall Wardrobe Moving Boxes

$39.99 for three

Uboxes

Larger Wardrobe Boxes

$46.75 for three

Amazon

Amazon Basics Wardrobe Clothing Moving Boxes

$48.88 for three

Staples

Kraft Wardrobe Boxes

$229.99 for five

 


 

Tips for Packing Clothes in Wardrobe Boxes

Follow these tips to pack your clothes safely and efficiently in wardrobe boxes.

 


 

How to Move Wardrobe Boxes

If you hire professional movers, you shouldn’t need to do much, if any, carrying. Full-service movers—including local and long-distance moving companies—will handle the loading and unloading for you. You must simply be available to answer questions and offer direction as needed.

DIY movers should be mindful of how they load, secure, and unload wardrobe boxes. Though these boxes typically have built-in handles, we recommend using a dolly or cart to move them around. Wardrobe boxes tend to be taller, heavier, and bulkier than other moving boxes, so wheeling them around is the safest option. Make sure to strap the boxes securely to the dolly and move them slowly and carefully.

Keep in mind that tall wardrobe boxes will not be easily stackable. Two 48-inch boxes would be 8 feet tall when stacked atop each other, and the lower box could be compromised by the weight of the upper one. It’s best to keep wardrobe boxes upright rather than lay them on their side.

 


 

Our Recommendation

Wardrobe boxes are excellent tools for anyone who wants to pack their clothes safely and efficiently for moving or storage. By choosing wardrobe boxes and following our tips on how to pack and move them, you can ensure that your clothes arrive at their destination in perfect condition.

When shopping for wardrobe boxes, be sure to compare prices, sizes, and features across several brands and retailers to find the best value. Consider the type of clothes you want to pack, the size and weight of the boxes, and the durability and eco-friendliness of the materials. Taking the time to prepare and organize your clothes will make your moving experience less stressful and more enjoyable.

 


 

Wardrobe Boxes FAQ

Can I make my own wardrobe boxes?

While it is possible for you to make your own wardrobe boxes by modifying regular moving boxes, purchasing premade wardrobe boxes is more practical. Wardrobe boxes often use sturdier materials than regular moving boxes and have a perfectly sized, preinstalled hanging bar.

How many clothes can fit in a wardrobe box?

How many clothes can fit in a wardrobe box depends on the type of clothes and the size of the box. Most wardrobe boxes are 24 inches wide, which means they can hold as much as two linear feet of closet space.

Can you use wardrobe boxes for other items besides clothes?

Yes, you can use wardrobe boxes for other items besides clothes. You can fill empty space at the bottom of the box with accessories, shoes, towels, sheets, or blankets. Alternatively, you can remove the bar and pack the box with almost anything you like. Because of their larger size, wardrobe boxes can be a good way to pack extra-large or unusually shaped items that need additional protection or support. This can include anything from dining room chairs to wrapping paper rolls.

Are wardrobe boxes reusable?

Most wardrobe boxes are reusable if you pack, carry, and secure them carefully. Heavy-duty plastic or double-wall corrugated boxes are especially durable.