Moving Box Estimator
Box counts are rules of thumb used by movers, labelled as such. When in doubt, order 10 percent extra; returns are easier than a second trip.
Worked example
An average-packed home with 2 bedrooms, 1 living room, 1 kitchen and 1 bathroom: bedrooms give 8 small, 12 medium, 6 large; living room 2, 4, 3; kitchen 3, 5, 2; bathroom 2, 1, 0. Total: 15 small, 22 medium, 11 large, 48 boxes.
Formula
Rule-of-thumb boxes per room (small / medium / large): bedroom 4 / 6 / 3, living room 2 / 4 / 3, kitchen 3 / 5 / 2, bathroom 2 / 1 / 0. Room counts are multiplied by the density factor: light 0.7, average 1.0, full 1.3, then rounded. Small boxes are about 2 cubic feet, medium about 3, large about 4.5.
FAQs
Why so many medium boxes? Medium boxes hit the sweet spot: big enough for most household goods, light enough to carry when full of books or dishes. Reserve large boxes for bedding, pillows and other light, bulky items.
What about wardrobe boxes and dish packs? Add roughly 1 wardrobe box per metre of hanging clothes and 1 dish pack per 8 to 10 place settings. They are not included in the counts above.
Estimates only. Figures are planning guides based on the stated assumptions, not professional advice. Verify quantities and prices before purchasing.