What Size Moving Truck Do I Really Need? A Complete Guide

What Size Moving Truck Do you really need when planning a big move? This is one of the most common questions homeowners and renters ask as they prepare for relocation. Choosing the wrong truck can either leave you frustrated with not enough space or overspending on a truck that’s far too big. That’s why having a reliable moving truck size guide is essential. At Chamomile Go, we know how stressful moving can be, and we’re here to make it easier by helping you figure out the perfect fit for your belongings.

Why Choosing the Right Moving Truck Matters

Moving isn’t just about boxing things up it’s about efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Selecting the wrong truck size can create serious headaches:

• A truck that’s too small means multiple trips or the risk of cramming and damaging items.

• A truck that’s too large can lead to wasted money and belongings shifting during transit.

That’s where expert guidance comes in. With the right approach, you can find the best truck size for moving and save time, money, and energy.

Common Moving Truck Sizes Explained

Before we answer the big question, “What Size Truck Do I Need For Moving?” let’s break down the most common truck sizes you’ll find at rental companies. These categories vary slightly by provider, but the general idea remains consistent:

Small Trucks or Cargo Vans (10–12 ft)

• Ideal for: studio apartments or small 1-bedroom moves.

• Capacity: holds about 1–2 rooms of furniture.

• Pros: easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and affordable.

Medium Trucks (15–17 ft)

• Ideal for: 1–2 bedroom apartments or small homes

• Capacity: around 2–3 rooms of furniture.

• Pros: versatile and fits most standard moving needs.

Large Trucks (20–26 ft)

• Ideal for: 3–5 bedroom homes.

• Capacity: can carry the contents of a full house, including large furniture and appliances.

• Pros: fewer trips, better for long-distance moves.

Understanding these moving truck capacity ranges makes it easier to choose a truck that balances your budget and storage needs.

How to Estimate the Truck Size You’ll Need

To simplify your decision, Chamomile Go recommends considering two key factors: the size of your home and the amount of belongings you own.

Here’s a quick moving truck size guide to help:

• Studio / 1-bedroom apartment → Cargo van or 10–12 ft truck.

• 2-bedroom apartment or small house → 15–17 ft truck.

• 3–4 bedroom home → 20–22 ft truck.

• 5+ bedroom home → 26 ft truck.

Of course, the final decision depends on how much furniture and storage you have. Minimalist movers may need less space, while families with full garages and storage units may require larger trucks.

Tips for Choosing the Best Truck Size for Moving

Chamomile Go suggests asking yourself these questions when picking a truck:

• Do you own large furniture like sectional sofas or king-sized beds?

• Will you be transporting bulky appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines?

• Are you making a local move or going long-distance?

For long-distance moves, it’s always better to rent a slightly larger truck to avoid running out of space. Local moves give you more flexibility since you can make multiple trips if necessary.

If you’re working with sherman oaks movers or another professional moving company, they can usually recommend the ideal size based on your inventory list. Many moving company sherman oaks professionals even offer on-site consultations to give you the most accurate advice.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Renting a Truck

One of the most frequent moving mistakes is underestimating the amount of space required. A truck that’s too small often leads to:

• Cramming belongings unsafely.

• Renting a second truck at the last minute.

• Unexpected costs and delays.

Another mistake is renting a truck that’s far too large. While it may seem safer to go big, this often means higher rental costs and increased fuel consumption. That’s why following a moving truck size guide and consulting with Chamomile Go or sherman oaks movers can save you unnecessary stress.

How Moving Companies Can Help

Sometimes, instead of figuring it out alone, it’s smarter to rely on experts. Hiring a moving company sherman oaks not only saves you the hassle of lifting heavy furniture but also ensures the truck size is chosen correctly. Professional movers have years of experience estimating moving truck capacity and can load your belongings efficiently.

Chamomile Go often reminds customers that the right moving truck isn’t just about size—it’s about convenience, safety, and peace of mind. If you’re unsure, leaning on professionals is always the smartest option.

you may also read this: PODS Moving Cost Breakdown

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right truck size doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using this moving truck size guide, you can confidently decide whether a small, medium, or large truck is the right fit for your move. Chamomile Go, along with trusted partners like sherman oaks movers and moving company sherman oaks, can help make the process smooth and stress-free.

If you’re planning a move and still wondering, “What size moving truck do I need?” don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized guidance and expert moving support.

FAQs

1. How do I know what size moving truck do I really need for a 2-bedroom apartment?

For most 2-bedroom apartments, a 15–17 ft truck works best. It usually fits furniture, appliances, and boxes without overcrowding. Always double-check your inventory for bulky items before booking.

2. Can I use a cargo van instead of a truck for a small move?

Yes, a cargo van is perfect if you’re moving out of a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. However, if you have furniture like a queen-sized bed or large sofa, follow a moving truck size guide to avoid multiple trips.

3. What size moving truck do I need for a cross-country move?

For long-distance moves, it’s safer to rent one size bigger than you think you’ll need. This ensures enough moving truck capacity for all your items and avoids last-minute issues on the road.