Many people today choose to move themselves rather than pay professional movers. They want to save money and have more control over the process. However, before doing so, they must know how to pick the right truck size.
When they rent a moving truck, they won’t want one that is too big because they will pay more than necessary and won’t realize the desired savings. On the other hand, a truck that is too small won’t save them as much because they will have to find an alternative way to move any items that don’t fit in the truck. What factors should they consider when choosing a moving truck?
Moving Truck Sizes
Moving truck sizes vary greatly. One person might be able to complete the move with a cargo van, which is the smallest moving vehicle available. Another person might need a 26-foot box truck to move the entire household. Other options range from 10 feet to 22 feet.
Flatbed trucks are ideal for short, local moves. The truck can be used to transport larger furnishings, while boxes are placed in the owner’s vehicle. Traditional truck rental locations and some big-box stores offer these vehicles for rent.
Cargo vans can accommodate a wide range of items inside. People moving a dorm room, studio apartment, or small one-bedroom apartment might find that a cargo van is all they need to complete the move. However, some people need larger vehicles.
Individuals often find that a 15-foot moving truck is necessary for their move. This vehicle can hold the contents of a one or two-bedroom apartment. However, many people choose a self-storage unit that can be packed over time and shipped when it is full.
Box trucks are what most people think of when discussing moving trucks. They are ideal for long-distance moves. Most box trucks range from 10 feet to 26 feet in length, although there will be variations among companies.
Choosing a Size
A cargo van or 10-foot box truck is ideal for small studio apartments up to 400 square feet. Move up to a 10-foot to 16-foot box truck for a one-bedroom apartment up to 600 square feet. A house or apartment up to 1200 square feet needs a 15-foot or 16-foot box truck, while a three-bedroom home requires a 20-foot or 22-foot truck. Larger homes require the largest box truck available, which is a 26-foot truck, and multiple trips may be necessary to move all items.
Tips for Choosing a Truck
Moving calculators are beneficial when determining the size of a moving truck. However, people must load these trucks efficiently to make the most of each square inch. Efficient packing and loading can reduce the size of the moving truck required.
Consider investing in a smaller truck and making multiple trips if the move is local. Doing so can save money. People should also consider the size of the truck and how comfortable they will be when driving it.
Some people choose to rent a moving storage container to save money while leaving the driving to someone else. These containers are placed on the property so the renter can fill them at their convenience. Once the containers are full, the renter contacts the provider, and they are moved to the new location.
Safety is the most important thing when moving. From packing and moving boxes to loading and unloading the truck, people need to prioritize their health and well-being. Doing so ensures they can enjoy their new home once they and their goods arrive.
