Wondering how many storage boxes you’ll need for your move? It’s important to get this right. Apart from large items like furniture and appliances, the rest of your things will need to go into boxes. Whether you rent boxes, hire professional packers, or buy new ones, knowing how many you’ll need is essential.
At South London Movers, we often get asked this question. So, we’ve created this guide to help you estimate the right number of boxes for your move.
How Many Boxes Do I Need to Move?
On average, most families need around 60 boxes for a move. However, the exact number depends on a few factors. Every move is different. Here are six key things to think about when working out how many boxes you’ll need:
1. Number of rooms
The more rooms you have, the more boxes you’ll need. Different rooms need different amounts of boxes. For example, kitchens usually need more boxes than bathrooms. Bedrooms often need the most because they hold furniture, clothes, and personal items.
2. Number of people
More people usually means more boxes. A family home will need more than a home for one person. The good news? You’ll have more hands to help with packing.
3. Number of years spent living in the home
The longer you’ve lived in your home, the more stuff you’ll have. If you’ve been in your house for many years, you’ll need more boxes than someone who has only lived there for a short time.
4. Square footage
Larger homes usually mean more items. The square footage of your home can give you an idea of how much stuff you’ll need to pack.
5. Lifestyle
Are you a minimalist or a sentimentalist? Minimalists tend to have fewer belongings, so they’ll need fewer boxes. Sentimentalists, who hold onto more things, will need more boxes.
6. Level of pre-move decluttering
Decluttering before your move can help reduce the number of boxes you’ll need. Take time to give away, sell, or recycle items you no longer need. This can save you money on boxes and make your move easier.
For more tips on de-cluttering & sorting items before your home removal, check out our article on green moving.
Box Sizes and Their Uses
Choosing the right size of box for each type of item is crucial to ensure everything is packed safely and efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of the most common box sizes and what they are best used for:
Small Boxes (Dimensions: Approx. 30 x 30 x 30 cm)
Small boxes are ideal for packing heavier items. Since they are smaller, they prevent you from overloading them, making them easier to carry and reducing the risk of the box breaking. These are perfect for:
- Books: Books are dense and heavy, so small boxes prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift.
- Tools: Hand tools or small, heavy equipment fit well in these boxes without causing strain on the box structure.
- Kitchen Supplies: Canned goods, jars of spices, and other non-perishable food items fit well in small boxes, as do heavy kitchen gadgets like blenders or toasters.
Medium Boxes (Dimensions: Approx. 45 x 45 x 45 cm)
Medium boxes offer more room but are still manageable to carry. They are great for lighter items that can take up more space. Use them for:
- Clothes: Folded clothes, jackets, and accessories like hats and scarves fit well in medium-sized boxes.
- Shoes: Shoe boxes or individual pairs can be neatly packed, preventing them from getting squashed during the move.
- Small Appliances: Household items like kettles, toasters, or desk fans are ideal for medium boxes as they are light enough to carry, but still need the right amount of space for safe packing.
Large Boxes (Dimensions: Approx. 60 x 60 x 60 cm)
Large boxes are designed for bulky but lightweight items. They provide ample space for packing larger things without adding too much weight. These are best for:
- Bedding: Pillows, duvets, and blankets can be packed in large boxes, as they are bulky but don’t weigh too much.
- Towels and Linens: Large boxes are great for soft, lightweight items like towels, curtains, and tablecloths.
- Large Toys or Lightweight Decor: For children’s toys or bulky but light home decor items, large boxes offer enough space without becoming too heavy.
Specialty Boxes
Specialty boxes are designed to protect fragile or uniquely shaped items. These boxes come in various sizes and shapes to suit specific needs. Some examples include:
- Mirror and Picture Boxes: These boxes are flat and long, designed to protect mirrors, picture frames, or artwork during transport.
- TV Boxes: Made to fit flat-screen TVs, these boxes often come with protective foam or padding to prevent damage.
- Wardrobe Boxes: These tall boxes come with a hanging rail, so you can transport clothes directly on their hangers, keeping them wrinkle-free.
- Dish Packs: These boxes are specially reinforced to hold fragile items like dishes, glassware, and china. They may come with dividers to keep items separate and reduce the risk of breaking.
You might also want to invest in sturdy plastic boxes. These are great for long-term storage, like keeping winter clothes or tools. They come in all shapes and sizes.
By using the right size and type of box, you can ensure that your belongings are safely packed and easy to transport. Packing correctly also makes unpacking at your new home much easier and more organised.
Estimating Boxes Based on Home Size
An easy way to estimate the number of boxes you’ll need is by looking at your home’s size. Here’s a rough guide:
- Studio flat: 15–20 boxes
- 1-bedroom home: 20–30 boxes
- 2-bedroom home: 35–45 boxes
- 3-bedroom home: 50–60 boxes
- 4-bedroom home: 70+ boxes
These numbers can vary based on how much you own and whether you’ve decluttered before moving. Minimalists may need fewer boxes, while those with more belongings or hobbies will need more. Don’t forget to account for extra storage areas like garages or attics, which often hold items that add to your box count.
Decluttering beforehand can reduce the number of boxes, saving you time and money.
Packing for a Stress-Free Move
Packing isn’t the most fun part of moving, but it’s important. With this guide, you should have a better idea of how many boxes you’ll need. Being organised will help make your move less stressful.
At South London Movers, we offer professional packing services. Our team uses high-quality materials to keep your belongings safe. Whether it’s a small move or a full house removal, we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information about our services.
If you’re planning to rent a storage unit, some removal companies like ours offer the added benefit of moving your extra items into storage at no extra cost.
If you’re handling the move yourself but need affordable, reliable storage options, our team is also here to help. For those in the South of England, we recommend We Pack & Store, offering free collection and competitive rates.
From student moves to whole house removals, piano removals and storage plans, we do it all to the highest standard.
