What Size Moving Truck Do I Need? How to Choose
Knowing what size moving truck you need depends on more than how many rooms your house has. You also need to consider the amount of stuff you have and how far you’re traveling. And getting this right is important: A truck that's too small can mean making an extra trip or leading that big armoire behind. But if your truck is larger than you need, you might waste money on fuel and rental fees.
This guide explains how to compare moving truck sizes and narrow down your options before booking. And if you'd rather leave truck selection and everything else up to the pros, check out College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving.
How Many Rooms Do You Have?
Most rental companies suggest using bedroom count to pick the right size truck for your move. Those recommendations include furniture and boxes from common areas such as the living room and kitchen. Treat the ranges in this moving truck size chart as a starting point, not a guaranteed fit. A minimalist in a three-bedroom house may need a smaller truck than a collector living in a studio.
Studio or One-Bedroom
A 10-foot truck may work for a studio with basic furniture and a modest number of moving boxes. For a furnished one-bedroom apartment with a kitchen, a 15 or 16-foot truck gives you more room for larger pieces like a dining table or a full-size sofa.
Two-Bedroom
If you're deciding what size moving truck to rent for a two-bedroom home, a 15 to 18-foot truck might be right for you. What do you use the second bedroom for? A home office with a compact desk might take up less truck space than a guest room with a king-size bed and matching dressers.
Three-Bedroom
For a three-bedroom home, look at trucks in the 20 to 26-foot range. A household with furniture in every bedroom and a separate family room likely needs a larger truck. Include any large appliances you're taking, such as a fridge or dryer, when estimating the load.
Four-Bedroom or Larger
If you have a four-bedroom with a furnished basement or packed garage, expect to rent the largest truck available. Most providers carry trucks up to 26 feet long, but if you need more space, you may be able to get one that’s 29 feet.
Types of Rental Trucks and Vans
Most movers use a box truck, but you may be able to fit smaller loads into a cargo van or flatbed. Each vehicle offers different loading space and protection for your belongings.
Cargo Van
A cargo van can suit a dorm room or lightly furnished studio. Its enclosed cargo area protects belongings from the weather, and its smaller size makes parking easier than with a large box truck. Check the interior height and door openings before booking, especially if you're bringing tall furniture.
Box Truck
Box trucks have a separate, enclosed cargo area with room to stack boxes and arrange larger furniture. They're a practical choice for moving a furnished apartment or house. Check whether your rental includes a loading ramp or liftgate, since lifting heavy pieces to truck-bed height can be difficult without one.
Flatbed or Pickup Truck
A flatbed or pickup truck can work for a short, local trip with a few pieces of furniture. The open bed gives you access for loading, but it leaves your belongings exposed to rain and road debris. Secure the load with suitable tie-down straps and protect anything that could get wet or dirty.
Moving Container
If you rent a moving container, you pack it while the provider transports it. This can be useful when you need more time to load or want to hold your things in storage before bringing them to your new place. Remember to confirm how long you can keep the moving container and whether there's suitable space for delivery at both addresses.
Factors That Affect Truck Size Beyond Home Size
Use the following factors to work out how big of a moving truck you need.
Amount of Furniture and Boxes
As part of your moving checklist, count boxes and note how large they are. Remember to include belongings tucked away in closets or storage areas. If you’ve got bulky pieces that don't come apart, such as a recliner, you may need to go up a truck size.
Distance of the Move
If you’re moving a short distance, it may be more cost-effective to rent a smaller truck and make multiple trips. (But remember to budget for the extra fuel and mileage.) If you’re moving across the state or country, prioritize fitting everything in one go—this is one of the few times when it’s better to have a truck that’s a little too big than risk getting one that’s too small.
Number of People Helping
If you’re DIY-ing your move, consider how many people you want to fit in the cab of your truck. Smaller trucks or cargo vans typically seat a driver and one passenger. If you need to fit three people in your vehicle, you may want to look at larger trucks that come with a three-person bench seat.
You also need to think about how skilled your volunteers are. Professionals like the team at College HUNKS know how to load a truck to maximize its space. You can even hire a crew to load and unload your truck while you rent and drive it yourself. Most moving companies set the cost of labor by the hour, so think about how long your move might take when setting your budget.
Driving Comfort Level
Are you comfortable turning and parking a larger vehicle along your route? Don't choose an undersized truck just because it feels easier to drive. College HUNKS offers full-service moving, so you can let the pros handle a big rig.
What Happens If You Rent the Wrong Size Truck?
Finding out the truck is too small halfway through loading can throw off your schedule. You may need another trip or a second rental to collect what’s left, adding mileage and hours of work. Your stuff is more likely to shift and slide in transit if you get an oversized truck, which also requires more fuel.
Tips for Choosing the Right Truck Size
Build these checks into your moving timeline before booking. Comparing your estimated load with the specific truck you're renting gives you time to choose another option if needed.
Use a Moving Truck Size Calculator
Some truck rental companies have calculators you can use to estimate the right size for your move. Just select how many rooms you have and tick off any boxes for large furniture or appliances.
Measure Large Furniture and Door Openings
Measure the height and width of your largest piece of furniture. Look at all of the truck’s dimensions, especially the door and interior height. Remember to leave a little room for padding and other bulky packing supplies. If you've hired loading help, prepare for movers by clearing the route between your furniture and the truck.
Plan Your Loading Strategy Before Moving Day
Gather your packing supplies before loading day. Use sturdy boxes when packing to protect fragile belongings for transport.
Decide where bulky pieces will go before filling the truck with boxes. Disassemble bed frames and tables to fit everything compactly. Stack heavier boxes below lighter ones, distribute weight evenly, and secure the load with appropriate straps.
Plan Your Move With College HUNKS
Choosing the right truck all comes down to how much stuff you have. Inventory everything you’ve got before booking so you don’t get stuck with a rental that’s too big or too small.
And remember that College HUNKS can bring the right-sized truck for you as part of our full-service moving. If you prefer to rent and drive your own truck, our hourly labor team can help with loading or unloading.
Request a free estimate to find the moving help that fits your plans.
FAQ
Is a 15-Foot Truck Big Enough for a One-Bedroom Apartment?
A 15-foot truck can accommodate many one-bedroom moves. Bulky furniture or additional belongings in storage may require more space.
Can a Four-Bedroom House Fit in a 26-Foot Truck?
Yes, but a heavily furnished home may require a larger truck or multiple trips. Remember to include the content of your garage and basement contents when booking.
Do You Need a Special License To Drive a Moving Truck?
Usually, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for a personal moving-truck rental in the U.S. Confirm the requirements for your specific vehicle and location before renting.