The most common box-related mistake in a long-distance move is underestimating — you run out of boxes with three rooms left to pack and a pickup in two days. Here's a realistic count by home size, with the factors that push your number higher or lower.
Box Counts by Home Size
| Home Size | Small Boxes | Medium Boxes | Large Boxes | Total |
|---|
| Studio | 5–10 | 10–15 | 3–5 | 20–30 |
| 1 Bedroom | 10–15 | 15–20 | 5–8 | 30–45 |
| 2 Bedroom | 15–20 | 20–30 | 8–12 | 45–65 |
| 3 Bedroom | 20–30 | 30–40 | 12–18 | 65–90 |
| 4-5 Bedroom | 30–40 | 40–60 | 18–25 | 90–130 |
These are estimates for a typical household. Heavy book collections, extensive kitchen equipment, or home offices will push you toward the higher end.
Which Box Size for What
- Small boxes (1.5 cu ft) — books, canned goods, tools, anything dense and heavy. Small boxes because heavy items in large boxes become impossible to lift safely
- Medium boxes (3.0 cu ft) — the most versatile size. Kitchen items, electronics, toys, clothing not in wardrobe boxes, most general household contents
- Large boxes (4.5 cu ft) — light but bulky items: pillows, linens, lampshades, stuffed animals, lightweight clothing
- Wardrobe boxes — hanging clothes, packed directly from the closet
- Dish packs — kitchen fragiles, double-walled construction
What Pushes Your Count Higher
- Full kitchen with extensive servingware or cookware
- Home office with books, files, and equipment
- Children's rooms with toys and clothing
- Attic, basement, or storage unit contents
- Extensive book collection
Where to Get Boxes
Our packing service includes all materials. If you're self-packing, purchase from a moving supply company rather than liquor stores or grocery stores — moving-specific boxes are designed with the weight and stacking requirements of a moving truck in mind. Used boxes are fine for a local move; for a long-distance haul, new boxes with intact corners are worth the cost.
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