Moving Truck Size Calculator
Picking the right moving truck shouldn't feel like a guessing game. Get one that's too small and you're making a second trip. Get one that's too big and you're paying for space you never use. Our Moving Truck Size Calculator helps you figure out what size truck you may need based on your home, furniture, and how much stuff you're bringing with you. Whether you're moving out of a studio apartment or packing up a four-bedroom house, this tool gives you a quick estimate before you start comparing trucks from U-Haul, Penske, Budget, Enterprise, and other rental companies. Just remember: a "20-foot truck" isn't always the same size across every company, so use this calculator as a starting point and always check the actual cargo space before booking. Compare Moving Truck Rentals.
Moving Truck Size Calculator
Answer a few quick questions to estimate the truck size you may need.
Approximate Moving Truck Cargo Space Comparison
| Truck Size | U-Haul | Penske | Budget | Enterprise |
| 10 ft | ~402 cu ft | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 12 ft | N/A | N/A | ~450 cu ft | N/A |
| 15 ft | ~764 cu ft | N/A | ~650 cu ft | N/A |
| 16 ft | N/A | ~800 cu ft | N/A | ~800 cu ft |
| 20 ft | ~1,016 cu ft | ~1,200 cu ft | ~960 cu ft | ~1,000 cu ft |
| 22 ft | N/A | N/A | N/A | ~1,200 cu ft |
| 26 ft | ~1,682 cu ft | ~1,700 cu ft | ~1,700 cu ft | ~1,650 cu ft |
Why Truck Size Matters
Not all moving trucks are created equal. A 20-foot truck from one rental company may have significantly more cargo space than a 20-foot truck from another. Differences in cargo box height, width, wheel wells, loading ramps, and interior design can affect how much you can actually fit inside. Find out more about moving truck rentals.
For example, Penske's 20-foot trucks often provide nearly 20% more cargo space than a comparable U-Haul 20-foot truck. That's why professional movers typically compare cubic feet and interior dimensions rather than truck length alone.
General Capacity Guide
| Truck Size | Typically Fits |
| 10-12 ft | Studio apartment, dorm room, small 1-bedroom |
| 15-16 ft | 1-2 bedroom apartment |
| 20 ft | 2-3 bedroom home |
| 22 ft | Large 3-bedroom home |
| 26 ft | 4+ bedroom home or long-distance family move |
Pro Moving Truck Sizing Tip
If you're between truck sizes, choose the larger truck. The cost difference is usually much smaller than the cost of making a second trip, extending your rental, or discovering halfway through loading that your sectional couch isn't going to fit. Find Movers Near Me.
Moving Truck Size FAQ
What size moving truck do I need for a studio apartment?
Most studio apartments fit in a 10-foot to 12-foot moving truck, especially if you have a bed, dresser, small couch, boxes, and basic kitchen items. If you have a large sectional, patio furniture, a storage closet, or lots of boxes, size up to a 15-foot truck to avoid a second trip.
What size moving truck do I need for a 1-bedroom apartment?
A 15-foot to 16-foot truck is usually the safest choice for a 1-bedroom apartment. A lightly furnished 1-bedroom may fit in a 10-foot truck, but most people underestimate boxes, lamps, mirrors, plants, and closet items. If you have a queen bed, couch, dining table, desk, and several boxes, choose the larger option.
What size moving truck do I need for a 2-bedroom apartment?
Most 2-bedroom moves need a 20-foot moving truck. If the apartment is lightly furnished, a 16-foot truck may work, but bulky items like mattresses, dressers, sofas, desks, garage items, and appliances add up quickly. For a long-distance move, sizing up is usually smarter than trying to pack every inch perfectly.
What size moving truck do I need for a 3-bedroom home?
A 20-foot to 26-foot truck is usually best for a 3-bedroom home. A smaller 3-bedroom with minimal furniture may fit in a 20-foot truck, but most full 3-bedroom homes need a 26-foot truck, especially if you have a garage, outdoor furniture, large couch, dining set, tools, bikes, or kids’ items.
What size moving truck do I need for a 4-bedroom home?
Most 4-bedroom homes need a 26-foot moving truck, and some larger homes may still require a second trip or an additional trailer. Garages, attics, playrooms, home offices, patio furniture, and storage areas are usually what push a move over the limit. If you are moving long distance, it is better to go bigger than risk running out of space on loading day.
Should I choose a bigger moving truck if I am between sizes?
Yes, usually. The price difference between truck sizes is often smaller than the cost of extra mileage, extra fuel, extra labor, or making another trip. A larger truck also gives you more room to load safely instead of stacking fragile items too tightly.
Are all 20-foot moving trucks the same size?
No. A 20-foot truck from U-Haul, Penske, Budget, or Enterprise may have different interior dimensions and cubic feet. Always compare cargo space, not just truck length. Height, width, wheel wells, ramps, and box shape can all affect how much you can actually fit.
