What Size Moving Truck Should You Use

What Size Moving Truck Should You Use

The size of the moving truck can make a big difference, learn how to calculate the size you will need.

What Size Moving Truck Should You Use

If you have decided to move yourself, a DIY move, you are going to have to determine the size of truck you will need to transport your belongings.

When considering which moving truck to use, understanding the truck sizes and what can fit into each one, will help when deciding which truck to use. Take into consideration the distance of your move, what you will be moving and the overall weight. For a long distance move, you will want to make sure you have a truck large enough that fits everything. For local moves, having a smaller truck could work, assuming that you have the time and resources to make multiple trips from point A to B and load/unload.

If you will be renting a truck, look at the differences to help figure out the right size for your move. Understanding what each truck can hold, will help avoid renting a truck that is too small, or paying for a truck that is too big.

One of the easiest methods used when determining which size truck to rent, is to use the truck rental companies standard method of calculating the trucks capacity. The rental truck companies list the trucks capacity by the number of bedrooms. For example: If you are moving from a 2 bedroom apartment, most rental truck companies will recommended a 15’ truck be used.

Remember, these are estimates and each move is different.

Moving Trucks

All measurements and sizes are based on U-Haul moving trucks.

8’ Pickup trucks – Volume: 76 cu. ft. Max load: 1180 lbs - Ideal for small loads and local deliveries. Seating for 3 adults.

Cargo vans – Volume: 245 cu. ft. Max load: 4000 lbs - Can hold belongings from a studio apartment. Ideal for small loads and local deliveries. Seating for 2 adults.

10’ truck – Volume: 402 cu. ft. Max load: 2810 lbs - Studio apartment and 1 – 2 bedroom moves. Seating for 2 adults.

15’ truck – Volume: 763 cu. ft. Max load: 6385 lbs - Great option for 1 – 2 bedroom house moves. Seating for 3 adults.

17’ truck – Volume: 865 cu. ft. Max load: 5930 lbs – Great for 2 bedroom house and larger apartments. Seating for 3 adults.

20’ truck – Volume: 1015 cu. ft. Max load: 5605 lbs – 2 bedroom house/3 bedroom apartment. Seating for 3 adults.

26’ truck – Volume: 1611 cu.ft. Max load: 9010 lbs – Best for 3 – 4 bedroom moves. Ideal for large loads. Seating for 3 adults.

Once you have a general idea of the size truck you might need, it’s always a good idea to speak with a representative at the truck rental company, and if possible provide measurements. Research the different rental companies and check out your options. This will help make the right decision on which truck to use, based upon the needs of your move. In addition to Uhaul, other major truck rental companies include: Budget, Enterprise, Penske and Ryder.

Once the truck size has been determined, next step is to know How to Load a Moving Truck.