The Container Store is the US storage and organisation retailer. Online at containerstore.com it sells everything from drawer dividers and clear bins to full custom closet systems, including the Elfa shelving system it has sold for decades.
A good Container Store order depends on measuring properly and buying the right system for the space. A bin that is an inch too wide for the shelf is the classic mistake, and on a closet system the cost of getting it wrong is much higher.
Elfa or a fully custom closet
Elfa is The Container Store's modular system: a top track screwed to the wall, hanging standards, and shelves, drawers and baskets that clip on. It can be installed yourself, moved later and extended one piece at a time.
The Container Store also sells custom closet lines built to fit a space more like fitted furniture, with panels and finishes such as wood-look laminates. They look more built-in and cost more, and are harder to take with you when you move.
Renters and anyone who reorganises often usually do better with Elfa. Homeowners who want a finished look choose custom. Both can be designed with help from The Container Store's design service; check the current booking options.
Measure before you buy
Measure the width, height and depth of the space at several points, since walls and shelves are rarely square. Note doors, skirting boards, light switches and sloping ceilings.
For bins and baskets, measure the inside of the shelf or drawer, and check the outside dimensions on The Container Store product page, not the capacity figure. Lids and handles add width.
For Elfa, note what the wall is made of. Plasterboard needs the right fixings into studs; the Elfa top track has to be secure because it carries the whole load.
Choosing bins and small organisers
Clear bins let you see contents at a glance, which suits pantries and garages. Fabric and woven bins look better on open shelves but hide what is inside, so label them.
Buy one sample of a Container Store bin, check it in the space, then buy the rest. Stackable lines save space only if you do not need the bottom box often.
How Organized Insider works
Organized Insider is The Container Store's free loyalty programme. It has offered member perks such as a sign-up reward, birthday offers and purchase tracking; check the current terms, since they change.
Join before a large order, so the purchase counts and you receive member emails about the Elfa sale and other events.
When prices are lowest
The Container Store runs an annual Elfa sale, typically around the start of the year, and other seasonal sales on custom closets. If a closet project can wait, plan it for one of those events.
Small organisers, bins and hooks go on sale more often than closet systems. If a Container Store basket is mostly small items, wait for a storewide event or use a dollar-off code rather than the Elfa code.
Custom closet quotes are worth getting in writing before a sale starts, so you can see exactly what the Container Store discount takes off the same design.
Back-to-college season brings dorm storage promotions, and holiday season brings gift wrap and decoration storage deals.
Delivery, installation and returns
Small items ship or can be collected in store where available. Elfa and custom closets can be delivered, and installation services are offered in many areas at extra cost; check availability for your address.
The Container Store accepts returns on most unused items within its stated window; custom-cut and made-to-order pieces are commonly excluded. Check the terms before ordering a custom system.
Where the Container Store savings are
The 40% code is the biggest percentage here. Try it first on any basket, though it may exclude Elfa and custom closets or sale items.
The Elfa code is the one for an Elfa project. On a full closet, 25% is a large saving; check whether it applies to installation or only to the components.
The $20 code is tied to The Container Store app. It beats 40% on orders under $50, so use it for a few bins or a drawer organiser.
Container Store codes generally do not stack with each other or with the Elfa sale price. Compare the sale price against the code and keep the lower total.
Common questions
Is Elfa worth it for a rented flat?
Often yes. It is modular and can be taken down and reinstalled in the next place.
When is the Container Store Elfa sale?
Typically around the start of the year. Organized Insider emails announce it.
Can I return a Container Store custom closet?
Custom and made-to-order pieces are commonly excluded. Check the terms before ordering.
How do I avoid buying the wrong size bin?
Measure inside the shelf, read the outside dimensions on the listing, and buy one sample first.
| Discount | Type | Get the deal |
|---|---|---|
| 30% off | Promo code | View at Container Store → |
| 25% off | Promo code | View at Container Store → |
| 25% off | Promo code | View at Container Store → |
| 10% off | Promo code | View at Container Store → |
