🚚 Moving Truck Size Calculator
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Truck Specifications
Alternative Options
💡 Moving Tips for Your Truck Size
Important: This calculator provides estimates based on typical household items. Actual space needed may vary based on packing efficiency and specific item dimensions. We recommend reserving a slightly larger truck if you’re unsure.
Choosing the right moving truck size can make the difference between a smooth, cost-effective move and a stressful, expensive disaster. Studies show that 40% of DIY movers rent the wrong truck size, leading to multiple trips or wasted money on unnecessary space. Our comprehensive guide, paired with our moving truck size calculator above, ensures you’ll make the perfect choice for your upcoming move.
Table of Contents
Why Choosing the Right Truck Size Matters for Your Move
Selecting the appropriate moving truck size impacts your move in several critical ways:
💰 Financial Impact
- Too Small: Multiple trips mean double or triple the gas costs, rental fees, and time
- Too Large: Paying for unused space, higher rental rates, and increased fuel consumption
- Just Right: Save 30-50% on overall moving costs
Time and Convenience Factors
The average DIY move takes 8-12 hours with the right truck size. Choose wrong, and you’re looking at:
- Additional 4-6 hours per extra trip
- Extended rental periods (overnight fees)
- Increased physical exhaustion
- Higher risk of damage during multiple loading/unloading cycles
Safety Considerations
An improperly sized truck creates safety hazards:
- Overloaded small trucks: Brake failure, tire blowouts, and handling issues
- Underloaded large trucks: Items shifting during transport, causing damage
- Driver inexperience: Larger trucks require CDL in some states for 26′ models
Complete Moving Truck Sizes Guide 2024
Understanding the specifications of each truck size helps you make an informed decision. Here’s a detailed breakdown of standard rental truck sizes available from major companies like U-Haul, Budget, and Penske:
| Truck Size | Cubic Feet | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Weight Capacity | Best For | Avg. Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Van | 245 cu ft | 9’6″ x 5’7″ x 4’8″ | 3,500 lbs | Studio, dorm rooms | $19-29 |
| 10′ Truck | 402 cu ft | 10′ x 6’3″ x 6’1″ | 2,850 lbs | Studio to 1 bedroom | $29-39 |
| 15′ Truck | 764 cu ft | 15′ x 7’8″ x 7’2″ | 6,385 lbs | 1-2 bedrooms | $39-49 |
| 17′ Truck | 865 cu ft | 17′ x 7’8″ x 7’2″ | 7,000 lbs | 2-3 bedrooms | $45-55 |
| 20′ Truck | 1,015 cu ft | 19’6″ x 7’8″ x 7’2″ | 8,000 lbs | 2-3 bedrooms | $55-65 |
| 26′ Truck | 1,700 cu ft | 26′ x 8’2″ x 8′ | 10,000 lbs | 3-5 bedrooms | $65-85 |
Cargo Van (245 cubic feet)
The cargo van is perfect for small moves and single-room relocations. Ideal for college students, studio apartment dwellers, or those moving minimal furniture. Features include:
- Easy to drive and park (similar to large SUV)
- Best fuel economy (18-24 MPG)
- No special license required
- Fits through standard parking garages
10-Foot Truck (402 cubic feet)
The 10-foot moving truck serves as the entry-level box truck, suitable for studio and small one-bedroom apartments. Key features:
- Low deck height for easy loading
- Comfortable cab similar to pickup truck
- Can fit queen-size bed and basic furniture
- Ideal for local moves under 50 miles
15-Foot Truck (764 cubic feet)
The 15-foot truck is the most popular size for residential moves. It strikes the perfect balance between capacity and maneuverability:
- Accommodates 1-2 bedroom apartments comfortably
- Loading ramp included
- Fits most residential driveways
- Mom’s attic storage space above cab
20-Foot Truck (1,015 cubic feet)
The 20-foot moving truck handles larger homes efficiently:
- Perfect for 2-3 bedroom homes
- Diesel engine option for better long-distance fuel economy
- Wide loading ramp
- E-track tie-down system
26-Foot Truck (1,700 cubic feet)
The 26-foot truck is the largest non-CDL option available:
- Handles 3-5 bedroom homes
- Professional-grade features
- Air brakes and power steering
- Translucent roof for natural lighting
How to Estimate Your Space Needs Accurately
The Room-by-Room Method
Professional movers use a systematic approach to estimate truck size requirements:
Living Room (150-200 cubic feet typical)
- Sofa: 80-100 cubic feet
- Love seat: 50-60 cubic feet
- Coffee table: 10-15 cubic feet
- TV stand: 20-30 cubic feet
- Bookshelf: 20-30 cubic feet
Bedroom (100-150 cubic feet typical)
- King bed: 75 cubic feet
- Queen bed: 60 cubic feet
- Dresser: 30-40 cubic feet
- Nightstand: 5-10 cubic feet
- Wardrobe: 50-60 cubic feet
Kitchen (80-120 cubic feet typical)
- Refrigerator: 50-60 cubic feet
- Kitchen table: 40-50 cubic feet
- Chairs (each): 10 cubic feet
- Boxes of dishes/cookware: 30-40 cubic feet
The Box Count Formula
Another reliable method involves counting boxes:
- Small boxes (1.5 cu ft): Books, tools, canned goods
- Medium boxes (3 cu ft): Kitchen items, toys, clothes
- Large boxes (4.5 cu ft): Linens, pillows, lampshades
- Wardrobe boxes (10 cu ft): Hanging clothes
Quick Formula: Total Cubic Feet = (Small boxes × 1.5) + (Medium boxes × 3) + (Large boxes × 4.5) + (Wardrobe × 10) + Furniture cubic feet
Recommended Truck Size by Home Type
Studio Apartment (400-600 sq ft)
Recommended: Cargo Van to 10′ Truck
Typical Contents:
- 1 bed (twin or full)
- Small dining set
- 1-2 dressers
- 10-20 boxes
- Small appliances
Pro Tip: If you have minimal furniture, a cargo van saves money. Upgrade to 10′ if you have a queen bed or full kitchen.
1-Bedroom Apartment (600-900 sq ft)
Recommended: 10′ to 15′ Truck
Typical Contents:
- Queen/King bed
- Living room furniture set
- Dining table and chairs
- 20-40 boxes
- Multiple appliances
Pro Tip: Choose 15′ if you have both bedroom and living room furniture sets, or if moving includes outdoor items.
2-Bedroom Home (900-1,200 sq ft)
Recommended: 15′ to 17′ Truck
Typical Contents:
- 2 bedroom sets
- Full living room
- Dining room furniture
- 40-60 boxes
- Washer/dryer
- Garage items
Pro Tip: 17′ provides breathing room for awkward items and reduces packing complexity.
3-Bedroom Home (1,200-2,000 sq ft)
Recommended: 20′ to 26′ Truck
Typical Contents:
- 3 bedroom sets
- Multiple living areas
- Full dining set
- 60-100 boxes
- Full appliance set
- Outdoor furniture
- Garage/basement items
Pro Tip: Consider 26′ if you have a furnished basement or extensive garage storage.
4+ Bedroom Home (2,000+ sq ft)
Recommended: 26′ Truck or Multiple Trucks
Typical Contents:
- 4+ bedroom sets
- Multiple living spaces
- Formal dining room
- 100+ boxes
- Multiple appliance sets
- Workshop/hobby equipment
- Extensive outdoor items
Pro Tip: For homes over 3,000 sq ft, consider professional movers or multiple truck rentals.
Moving Truck Cost Comparison 2024
Base Rental Rates by Company
| Truck Size | U-Haul | Budget | Penske | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Van | $19.95 | $24.95 | N/A | $29.99 |
| 10′ Truck | $29.95 | $29.95 | $34.99 | $39.99 |
| 15′ Truck | $39.95 | $39.95 | $44.99 | $49.99 |
| 20′ Truck | $49.95 | $49.95 | $54.99 | $59.99 |
| 26′ Truck | $59.95 | $59.95 | $64.99 | $69.99 |
*Base rates shown. Actual prices vary by location, season, and availability. Add $0.59-$1.29/mile for local moves.
Hidden Costs to Consider
- Mileage fees: $0.59-$1.29 per mile (local), included in one-way rentals
- Insurance: $14-$28/day for basic coverage
- Equipment rentals: Dollies ($7-12), furniture pads ($10-15), straps ($5-10)
- Environmental fees: $5-15 per rental
- Taxes: 6-10% of total rental cost
- Late return fees: $40-80 plus additional day charges
- Fuel costs: Return with same fuel level or pay $4-6/gallon
Money-Saving Tips
🎯 Book Early
Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for 20-30% savings, especially during peak season (May-September).
🎯 Avoid Peak Times
Mid-month and mid-week rentals cost 40% less than weekend/month-end moves.
🎯 Compare One-Way vs Round-Trip
For moves over 50 miles, one-way rentals often cost less despite higher daily rates.
🎯 Use Discounts
AAA, military, student, and employer discounts save 10-20%. Always ask!
Professional Loading Tips for Maximum Space Efficiency
The Loading Order Strategy
- Heavy appliances and furniture first: Against the cab wall for weight distribution
- Long items along walls: Sofas, mattresses, and tables create stable walls
- Stack medium-weight boxes: Create tiers from floor to ceiling
- Fill gaps with soft items: Pillows, blankets, and clothes bags
- Fragile items last: Easy access and less weight on top
Space-Saving Techniques
📦 Disassemble Everything Possible
- Remove table legs and tape to tabletop
- Take apart bed frames
- Remove dresser drawers (wrap separately)
- Detach sofa legs if possible
📦 Use Furniture as Storage
- Fill dresser drawers with clothes
- Pack linens inside washer/dryer
- Store boxes inside wardrobes
- Use suitcases for heavy items
📦 Maximize Vertical Space
- Stack chairs seat-to-seat
- Stand mattresses and sofas on end
- Use moving straps to secure tall stacks
- Create box “walls” from floor to ceiling
📦 Protect and Pad Efficiently
- Use towels/blankets instead of bubble wrap
- Wrap furniture in stretch plastic
- Place cardboard between stacked items
- Use clothes to cushion fragile items
Weight Distribution Guidelines
Proper weight distribution prevents accidents and improves fuel efficiency:
- 60% of weight in front half of truck bed
- Heavy items low, light items high
- Distribute weight evenly left to right
- Secure everything with straps every 4-5 feet
7 Common Moving Truck Size Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake #1: Forgetting the “Invisible” Items
People often forget garage items, outdoor furniture, attic storage, and shed contents. These can add 200-400 cubic feet to your move.
Solution: Walk through EVERY space, including storage areas, before calculating truck size.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Accounting for Packing Inefficiency
First-time movers typically achieve only 70-80% space efficiency due to irregular shapes and safety gaps.
Solution: Add 20-25% buffer to your calculated space needs.
❌ Mistake #3: Choosing Based on Price Alone
Saving $20 on a smaller truck can cost $200+ in second trips, extra gas, and overtime fees.
Solution: Factor in total move cost, not just base rental rate.
❌ Mistake #4: Ignoring Access Limitations
Large trucks can’t navigate narrow streets, low bridges, or tight apartment complexes.
Solution: Check route and destination accessibility before booking.
❌ Mistake #5: Underestimating Driving Difficulty
26-foot trucks handle very differently from passenger vehicles, especially in wind or rain.
Solution: Choose the smallest adequate size if you’re not comfortable driving large vehicles.
❌ Mistake #6: Peak Season Procrastination
Waiting until the last minute during summer months often means settling for the wrong size.
Solution: Book at least 2-4 weeks ahead during May-September.
❌ Mistake #7: Not Getting Insurance
Your auto insurance likely doesn’t cover rental trucks. Damage liability can exceed $25,000.
Solution: Purchase at least basic coverage ($14-28/day) for peace of mind.
Special Considerations for Different Move Types
Long-Distance Moves (500+ miles)
- Choose one size larger for comfort and single-trip guarantee
- Consider diesel trucks (20′ and 26′) for better fuel economy
- Factor in overnight stops: Secure parking for large trucks costs $50-100/night
- Weather protection: Ensure truck has good seals and waterproofing
Urban/City Moves
- Parking restrictions: Many cities require permits for trucks over 20′
- Height clearances: Check bridges, tunnels, and parking garages
- Narrow streets: Consider smaller truck with multiple trips
- Elevator reservations: Book freight elevators in advance
Interstate Moves
- Weigh stations: Trucks over 10,000 lbs must stop
- State regulations: Some states have specific truck restrictions
- Toll costs: Commercial rates apply to rental trucks
- Mountain driving: Larger trucks struggle on steep grades
Seasonal Moving Truck Rental Guide
Peak Season (May-September)
Challenges:
- 30-50% higher rates
- Limited availability
- Longer wait times
Tips:
- Book 3-4 weeks in advance
- Consider mid-week moves
- Have backup size options ready
Off-Season (October-April)
Advantages:
- 20-30% lower rates
- Better truck selection
- Negotiable prices
Considerations:
- Weather challenges
- Shorter daylight hours
- Holiday blackout dates
Moving Truck Rental Company Comparison
U-Haul
Pros:
- Largest fleet and location network
- Most size options
- In-town and one-way rentals
- 24/7 mobile pickup available
Cons:
- Older fleet average
- Variable truck conditions
- Complex pricing structure
Best For: Local moves and maximum availability
Penske
Pros:
- Newest fleet (average 2 years old)
- Superior maintenance
- AAA and military discounts
- Unlimited mileage options
Cons:
- Fewer locations
- Higher base rates
- Limited small truck options
Best For: Long-distance and cross-country moves
Budget
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- Good truck conditions
- Clear pricing structure
- Often best deals for one-way
Cons:
- Fewer locations than U-Haul
- Limited weekend availability
- Fewer truck sizes
Best For: Budget-conscious movers with flexible dates
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Truck Sizes
What size moving truck do I need for a 2-bedroom apartment?
For a typical 2-bedroom apartment (900-1,200 sq ft), a 15-17 foot truck is recommended. The 15-foot truck works for minimally furnished apartments, while the 17-foot provides extra space for full furniture sets and garage items. Consider upgrading if you have multiple large appliances or extensive belongings.
How much does it cost to rent a moving truck for one day?
Daily rental rates range from $19-85 for base rental, plus $0.59-1.29 per mile for local moves. Total costs including mileage, insurance, and fees typically run: Cargo van ($50-80), 10′ truck ($80-120), 15′ truck ($100-150), 20′ truck ($130-180), and 26′ truck ($150-250) for a typical local move.
Can I drive a 26-foot moving truck with a regular license?
Yes, in most states you can drive a 26-foot rental truck with a regular driver’s license as long as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is under 26,000 pounds. All major rental companies keep their 26′ trucks under this limit. However, always check your specific state regulations and feel comfortable with the vehicle size before renting.
Should I get the insurance when renting a moving truck?
Yes, we strongly recommend at least basic insurance coverage. Your personal auto insurance typically doesn’t cover rental trucks. Basic coverage ($14-28/day) protects against major damage, while full coverage ($28-45/day) includes cargo protection. Given potential liability of $25,000+, insurance is a worthwhile investment.
How far in advance should I reserve a moving truck?
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for best selection and rates. During peak season (May-September) or for weekend moves, reserve 3-4 weeks ahead. For off-season weekday moves, 1-2 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings often result in wrong-sized trucks or significantly higher rates.
What happens if the truck is too small for all my stuff?
If your truck is too small, you’ll need to either: 1) Make multiple trips (doubles time and mileage costs), 2) Rent an additional truck or trailer, 3) Leave items behind for later transport, or 4) Hire last-minute movers for overflow. This typically adds $200-500+ to moving costs, which is why accurate sizing is crucial.
Is it better to rent a truck that’s too big or too small?
Slightly too big is always better than too small. A larger truck costs $10-20 more per day but ensures single-trip completion. A too-small truck requiring two trips doubles your mileage costs, rental time, and physical effort. The extra space also makes loading easier and safer with less cramming required.
Do I need special equipment like dollies or furniture pads?
Yes, equipment rentals are essential for safe, efficient moving. At minimum, rent: appliance dolly ($10-15) for heavy items, furniture dolly ($7-10) for boxes, furniture pads ($10-15/dozen) for protection, and straps ($5-10) for securing loads. This $40-50 investment prevents thousands in potential damage.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Moving Truck
✅ Pre-Rental Checklist
- Use our moving truck size calculator for accurate sizing
- Inventory ALL items including storage areas
- Measure large furniture pieces
- Check access at both locations
- Verify your driver’s license is valid
- Compare prices from 3+ companies
- Read rental agreement thoroughly
- Confirm insurance coverage
- Reserve equipment (dollies, pads, straps)
- Plan your route avoiding low bridges
📱 Day-of Rental Tips
- Inspect truck thoroughly, document any damage
- Test all lights, signals, and safety features
- Adjust mirrors and seat before leaving
- Note fuel level and mileage
- Get emergency contact numbers
- Take photos of truck condition
- Verify return time and location
Start Planning Your Move with Confidence
Choosing the right moving truck size doesn’t have to be stressful. With our comprehensive guide and free moving truck size calculator, you have all the tools needed to make an informed decision. Remember these key takeaways:
- 📏 Accurate measurement prevents costly mistakes
- 💰 The right size saves money and time
- 📅 Early booking ensures availability and better rates
- 🛡️ Insurance provides essential protection
- 📦 Proper loading maximizes space efficiency
Ready to determine your perfect truck size? Use our free calculator above to get personalized recommendations based on your specific moving needs. With accurate sizing, your DIY move will be smoother, safer, and more affordable.