Moving Truck Size Calculator
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Recommended Truck Size:
—Understanding Moving Truck Sizes
Choosing the right moving truck size is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective move. An undersized truck can lead to multiple trips or strained packing, while an oversized truck might cost more than necessary and be harder to maneuver. This calculator provides a general recommendation based on the size of your dwelling and the number of large, bulky items you need to transport.
How the Calculation Works
This calculator uses a simplified model to estimate the volume and complexity of your move. Each dwelling type is associated with a general range of belongings. We then factor in large items, which take up significant space and can influence the overall truck requirement. The logic assigns a "weight" or "score" to each selection, and based on the cumulative score, suggests a suitable truck category.
- Studio Apartment: Typically requires a smaller truck, often suitable for a few pieces of furniture and boxes.
- 1 Bedroom: More furniture and a moderate number of boxes.
- 2 Bedrooms: A significant amount of furniture and belongings, often requiring a medium-sized truck.
- 3 Bedrooms: Substantial volume of items, including multiple large furniture pieces, commonly needing a larger truck.
- 4+ Bedrooms: Very large homes with extensive furniture and numerous boxes, demanding the largest available trucks.
- Large Items: Items like pianos, large sectional sofas, refrigerators, or washing machines occupy a disproportionate amount of space and can necessitate stepping up to a larger truck size than indicated by the dwelling alone. Each large item is given extra "volume points".
Truck Size Categories Explained:
Moving truck rental companies typically offer several sizes. While names may vary, here's a common breakdown:
- Small Cargo Van / Pickup Truck: Best for moving a few large items or a small studio apartment's worth of belongings. (e.g., ~7-10 feet)
- 12-15 Foot Truck: Suitable for a studio apartment to a small one-bedroom apartment.
- 17-20 Foot Truck: Ideal for a one to two-bedroom apartment or house.
- 24-26 Foot Truck: The largest standard moving truck, best for three to four-bedroom homes.
- Heavy Duty / Custom Sized: For moves significantly larger than a 4-bedroom house, or if you have exceptionally large items like grand pianos or multiple large appliances.
Important Considerations:
This calculator is a guideline. Actual needs can vary based on:
- Amount of Stuff: Do you have minimal possessions or a packed home?
- Furniture Size/Type: Large, bulky furniture (like armoires or large sectionals) takes up more space than smaller pieces.
- Packing Efficiency: Well-packed boxes can significantly reduce the overall space needed.
- Disassembly: Can your furniture be disassembled to take up less room?
- Distance of Move: For very long-distance moves, you might opt for a slightly larger truck to ensure everything fits comfortably and safely without excessive stacking.
Always consider speaking with your chosen truck rental company. They can offer the most accurate advice based on their specific fleet and your detailed needs.