The rule of thumb
The number of boxes depends on how many rooms you pack and how much you own. A simple estimate is:
Boxes = (rooms × 10 + people × 5) × amount of stuff
with a factor of 0.7 for a minimalist home, 1 for an average one and 1.4 for a home full of books, collections or hobby gear. Then split by size: about 35% small, 40% medium and 25% large.
Worked example
A family of 3 is moving from a house with 5 rooms to pack (2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen and garage), with an average amount of stuff.
- Boxes: (5 × 10 + 3 × 5) × 1 = 65 boxes.
- Small boxes: 23, medium boxes: 26, large boxes: 16.
- Packing tape: 65 ÷ 15, rounded up, gives 5 rolls.
Box sizes and what goes in them
| Box | Typical size | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1.5 cu ft) | 16 × 12 × 12 in | books, dishes, canned food, tools |
| Medium (3 cu ft) | 18 × 18 × 16 in | kitchen items, toys, small appliances, linens |
| Large (4.5 cu ft) | 18 × 18 × 24 in | pillows, lampshades, bedding, light bulky items |
| Wardrobe | about 24 × 20 × 46 in | hanging clothes |
| Dish pack | about 18 × 18 × 28 in | plates and glasses with dividers |
Keep each box under about 50 lb. Heavy items go in small boxes so they stay easy to carry.
Typical needs by home size
| Home | Boxes | Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 15 to 30 | 10 ft |
| 1 bedroom | 25 to 40 | 10 to 15 ft |
| 2 bedrooms | 40 to 60 | 15 to 20 ft |
| 3 bedrooms | 60 to 100 | 20 to 26 ft |
| 4+ bedrooms | 100 to 150 | 26 ft |
Packing tips
- Start early with rooms you use least, like the garage, guest room and storage.
- Label two sides of each box with the room and a short content list.
- Tape with an H pattern on the bottom: one strip along the seam and one across each edge.
- Fill gaps with towels or paper so contents do not shift.
- Free boxes: grocery and liquor stores often give away sturdy boxes, and many people sell used moving boxes after a move.
- Pack an open-first box with chargers, medicines, toiletries, sheets and a few tools.