Why are bedroom charts only a starting point?
Two homes with the same bedroom count can need very different trucks. A minimal one-bedroom apartment may fit a smaller truck, while a packed one-bedroom with a sectional, books, kitchen gear, garage items, and 50 boxes can push into the next truck size.
This calculator estimates cubic feet, then adjusts for packing efficiency. Loose DIY loading uses more space because furniture shapes, wheel wells, fragile items, and unstackable gaps reduce the space you can actually use.
If your box count is still rough, start with the moving box calculator. Once the truck size looks right, use the moving supplies calculator to estimate tape, pads, mattress bags, and TV protection.
The move buffer is smaller for local moves where another trip is possible and larger for long-distance or one-way moves.
What are the common moving truck size ranges?
| Truck band | Typical capacity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo van / small load | About 245-400 cu ft | Dorm, studio, partial apartment, small furniture |
| 10-12 ft truck | About 400-450 cu ft | Studio or very minimal one-bedroom move |
| 15-16 ft truck | About 760-800 cu ft | Most one-bedroom moves and lighter two-bedroom moves |
| 20-22 ft truck | About 1,000-1,200 cu ft | Full one-bedroom, many two-bedroom moves, long-distance buffer |
| 26 ft truck | About 1,650-1,700 cu ft | Three-bedroom-plus, packed homes, garage and outdoor items |
When should you size up?
- Your move is long-distance or one-way.
- You cannot make a second trip.
- You have a sectional, large couch, or many awkward items.
- You have garage, patio, tools, bikes, shelves, or storage items.
- Your box count is still a guess.
- You are loading loosely without professional help.
Reviewed and updated July 5, 2026. Truck dimensions, payload, ramps, clearance, and available models vary by provider and location. Confirm the actual vehicle details before booking.
What sources and assumptions does this calculator use?
HomeTally uses provider-neutral truck bands instead of assuming one rental company, because U-Haul, Penske, Budget, Enterprise, and local fleets can vary by location. The calculator combines bedroom-based planning ranges, box volume, furniture volume, packing efficiency, and a move-distance buffer.