What Size Moving Truck Do I Need: Tips for a Smooth Move

Planning your move starts with picking the right truck size for your belongings. This guide helps you figure out what size truck you need based on your items and home size. You'll learn how to measure your stuff and pick between different truck options. Expert movers recommend checking your belongings carefully before choosing a truck size. These tips will help make your move easier and save you money.

Assessing Your Belongings

Start by making a list of everything you plan to move. Walk through each room and write down all your furniture and boxes. Measure big items like sofas, beds, and tables with a tape measure. Don't forget to measure tall appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Count how many boxes you'll need for smaller items like books, clothes, and dishes. Take your time with this step because missing something could mean your truck is too small. When you know exactly what you're moving, picking the right truck size becomes much easier.

Understanding Truck Size Options

Moving trucks come in different sizes to match your needs. Small trucks (10-12 feet) work well for studio apartments or one-bedroom homes. Medium trucks (16-20 feet) fit most two-bedroom apartments or small houses. Large trucks (24-26 feet) handle big houses with three or more bedrooms. Each truck size holds a certain amount of stuff, so bigger homes need bigger trucks. If you're not sure which size to pick, go one size larger than you need. This gives you extra space and makes loading easier.

Estimating Space Requirements

Look at each room in your home and think about how much truck space it will need. A bedroom usually needs about 150-200 cubic feet of truck space. Living rooms need more space because of big furniture like couches and entertainment centers. Measure your largest furniture pieces to see how much room they take up. Remember that oddly shaped items like mirrors or artwork need careful packing and extra space. Kitchen appliances and boxes from cabinets also add up quickly. By checking each room carefully, you'll get a better idea of your total space needs.

Factoring in Furniture and Appliances

Big furniture and appliances take up most of your truck space. Measure your couch, dining table, and bedroom furniture first. Write down the length, width, and height of each piece. Check if any furniture comes apart - tables and bed frames often do, which saves space. Appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers are heavy and need special care when moving. Some items might not fit through doorways and may need to be disassembled. Plan for these big items first, then fit your boxes around them.

Considering Distance and Route

Think about how far you're moving and what roads you'll take. Long trips need a bigger truck to fit everything in one trip. Check if your route has narrow streets, low bridges, or steep hills that could cause problems with a large truck. Some neighborhoods have rules about big trucks, so check that too. If you're moving across town, a smaller truck might work fine since you could make multiple trips. For long-distance moves, getting everything in one truck usually works better.

Consulting With Moving Experts

Talk to moving professionals before making your final choice. They know truck sizes and can help you pick the right one based on your home size and belongings. Please show them your inventory list and ask for their advice. Most rental companies have staff who can guide you through the options. They've helped many people move and know common mistakes to avoid. Getting expert advice upfront can save you from problems later, like needing a bigger truck at the last minute or paying for space you don't need.

Related Topics:

• How Many Moving Boxes Do I Need

• How to Make Moving Easier