Moving Box Sizes: A Guide on Maximizing Your Packing Potential
Every move varies, but the average person will need at least 15 moving boxes for each room they're packing up. That might sound like a lot of boxes, but once you start clearing drawers, closets, and shelves, you'll realize you have more stuff than you thought.
While you can use the shipping boxes you already have, they're not necessarily the right size for moving everything.
The truth is, the moving box sizes matter for both packing and stacking. If you pack heavy items in a big box, you won't be able to lift it. If you fill a small box too full, the stuff inside could break.
Luckily, you can make the most of any box size by packing the right items inside. Keep reading as we outline our moving box size guide below.
Small Moving Boxes
The standard size for a small moving box is 12 x 12 x 16 inches, and they hold about 1.5 cubic feet.
They're great for packing heavy, yet small items like books, CDs, and small electronics. You can also use them to store important paperwork, valuable jewelry, or knick-knacks. Just remember not to pack these boxes too full or something could get crushed or broken during the move.
If you're packing anything breakable, one of the best ways to protect it is to wrap it in packing paper. It keeps things from shifting in the box, plus, an unprinted paper is eco-friendly.
Medium Moving Boxes
Medium boxes are typically 18 x 18 x 16 inches and have a 3 cubic feet capacity. It's the most versatile moving box size, so you'll want to have plenty of these on hand.
They're great for kitchenware like pots and pans, coffeemakers, slow cookers, and flatware. You can also use them to pack delicate lamps and lampshades, speakers, and kids’ toys.
Large Moving Boxes
Large boxes are 18 x 18 x 24 and have a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet. They can't hold as much weight as a small or medium box, so they're great for lightweight, yet bulky items.
Since they're 24 inches tall, you can pack tall lamps, furniture pieces, or appliances inside. Since these boxes can store a lot, but can't handle too much weight, you can fill the empty spaces with other things. Pack linens, stuffed animals, or blankets around heavier appliances to maximize the storage without making the box too heavy.
Extra Large Moving Boxes
This is the largest for regular moving boxes at 24 x 18 x 24 inches and 6 cubic feet. Remember that the bigger the box, the lighter the items inside need to be.
This size is perfect for bulky comforters and bedding, pillows, large kids’ toys, and towels. You can also use this size box to store folded clothes like sweaters or hoodies.
Specialty Moving Boxes
To maximize your packing, you might also need some specialty boxes like a dish pack box, mirror cartons, or wardrobe boxes.
Dish pack boxes are 18 x 18 x 28 inches, and they're specially designed to carry kitchen plates, glasses, and stemware. Even if you're just moving across town, make sure to use plenty of packing paper and put heavy pieces on the bottom.
Mirror cartons come in a wide range of sizes, and they'll protect artwork, mirrors, and picture frames during your move. Wardrobe boxes are for hanging clothes, so they're usually 24 x 21 x 29 inches. You can fit up to 3 feet worth of closet space in one box.
Choose the Right Moving Box Sizes for Your Move
Using the right moving box sizes will make things easier for your movers. Plus, when you use the right size boxes to pack, there's a better chance that all your stuff will arrive in good shape.
Brooks Transfer & Storage Company can help if you're looking for a moving company or storage company. Contact us today to get a quote or learn more about our services.
