Find Out how many boxes do you need for moving: Moving Box Calculation Tips
Our moving consultants are all experts in estimating the weight, volume, and costs for a move, but even they will agree that estimating the number of boxes for moving can be tricky. Truthfully, the number of boxes you need to purchase to start packing is completely variable and unique to every relocation. Some homes are sparse, some families are pack rats, and even the types of boxes needed are unique to what you own.
Therefore, the most accurate way to determine how many boxes you need will always be to have a professional moving consultant do an in-home survey and produce a cube sheet. The cube sheet will include the number and types of boxes you will need to start packing, and that list will be completely customized to your items.
However, sometimes you just need a rule of thumb to purchase boxes and start packing. Here are some averages and generalizations we use for estimating the number of boxes needed for a move:
Before you get started, click here to learn more about the types of boxes sold for packing for a move.
Average number of boxes needed to pack an apartment or condo:
| ROOM | 1.5 cu. ft. small box | 3.1 cu. ft. medium box | 4.5 cu. ft. large box | 5.1 cu. ft. dishpack box | Wardrobe Boxes |
| Kitchen | 2 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 0 |
| Living Room | 2 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Dining Room | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Master Bedroom | 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 4 |
| Bedroom #2 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 2 |
| Bathroom | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 8 | 17 | 16 | 7 | 6 |
How many boxes to move a one bedroom apartment? Approximately 45 boxes. About 54 boxes are required for a two bedroom apartment.
Average number of boxes needed for a single family home move:
| ROOM | 1.5 cu. ft. small box | 3.1 cu. ft. medium box | 4.5 cu. ft. large box | 5.1 cu. ft. dishpack box | Wardrobe Boxes |
| Kitchen | 4 | 6 | 4 | 6 | 0 |
| Living Room | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 |
| Dining Room | 0 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| Master Bedroom | 3 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 6 |
| Bedroom #2 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 2 |
| Bedroom #3 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 2 |
| Bathroom #1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Bathroom #2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 19 | 28 |
28 | 12 | 10 |
How many boxes to move a house? Approximately 100, depending on the number of bedrooms, and of course the volume of belongings.
These estimates only take into account an average home set-up. Think about which things you tend to have more of than the average household, then add boxes based on that.
- Don’t forget about adding boxes to pack hall closets, basements, attics, garages, and sheds.
- If you have many books, papers, or records, add more 1.5 boxes.
- For more knick-knacks, small appliances, and miscellaneous, add more 3.1 boxes.
- For more clothes, blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals, add 4.5 boxes.
- For additional kitchenware, add 5.1 boxes.
Paper and Tape
- Tape: purchase 1 roll of tapes for every 10 boxes
- Packing Paper: purchase 25 lbs of packing paper for every 2 dishpack boxes, this is enough to cover those dishpacks and additional fragiles in the other boxes
Other tips and rules of thumb for estimating boxes:
- Don’t forget your mirrors and artwork! Add 1 mirror carton for every 2 large frames in your home.
- Do you have bookcases? Add 6 additional 1.5 boxes for every bookcase in your home.
- For closets with hanging clothes, a wardrobe box will hold 2 feet worth of hanging items, so just measure the width of your closet to determine how many wardrobe boxes you need.
- Moving.com has a handy packing materials calculator that is also a good guideline for estimating boxes.
Ready to purchase boxes? If you’re packing for a Boston, Washington D.C., Austin, Tampa or Philadelphia move you can request a free box delivery by filling out this form.
FAQ’s
The number of boxes needed depends on your home size and packing needs. On average, a studio or one-bedroom requires 10–20 boxes, a two-bedroom needs 20–40 boxes, and a three-bedroom or larger may need 40–60+ boxes. Specialty boxes for fragile items, clothing, or kitchenware may also be necessary. We recommend getting extra boxes to ensure you have enough for packing.
The number of boxes you need depends on your home size and how much you’re packing. A studio or one-bedroom typically requires 10–20 boxes, a two-bedroom needs 20–40, and a three-bedroom or larger may need 40–60+ boxes. Specialty boxes for fragile items, wardrobes, and kitchenware may also be necessary. If you’re unsure, we can help estimate the right number of boxes for your move.
A 3-bedroom home typically requires 40–60+ boxes, depending on the amount of belongings and packing style. This includes a mix of small, medium, and large boxes, plus specialty boxes for fragile items, wardrobes, and kitchenware. If you have more items or prefer smaller, lighter boxes, you may need additional packing supplies. Need help estimating? We can provide recommendations based on your move.
The number of boxes needed depends on the size of your home and how much you’re packing. A one-bedroom home typically requires 15–25 boxes, a two-bedroom needs 25–40, a three-bedroom may need 40–60, and a four-bedroom or larger can require 60+ boxes. Additional specialty boxes for fragile items, wardrobes, and kitchenware may also be necessary. If you’re unsure, we can help estimate the right number of boxes for your move.
Medium boxes (about 18″ x 18″ x 16″) are the most versatile for moving. They are large enough to hold a variety of items like kitchenware, books, and decor, yet small enough to stay manageable when packed. They balance capacity and weight, making them easier to carry than large boxes, which can become too heavy when full. For the best packing strategy, use a mix of small, medium, and large boxes based on your items.
