Moving Box Sizes: The Complete Guide

Moving box sizes vary widely, and choosing and packing the right size takes some planning. Carelessly tossing all your dishes into an extra-large box spells trouble when it’s time for the mover to load it, and the bottom gives out from the weight.

A typical moving box size is 18″ x 18″ x 16″ (medium-sized), with a volume of 3 cubic feet. These boxes work well for most household items, but sometimes they won’t be right for packing certain things. Toys, oddly shaped items, bulky blankets, books, and many other odds and ends probably won’t fare well in this box size.

When you’re moving, it’s best to use a range of box sizes and types to give every item the right protection and support. We break down everything you need to know, from standard moving box sizes to when and how to use specialty boxes.

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Standard Moving Box Sizes and Dimensions

Most average moving boxes come in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. Keep in mind that exact moving box dimensions and weight limits may vary, depending on where you buy them. However, they’re usually pretty close to the moving box size guide provided below.

Small Moving Boxes

• Dimensions: 16″ x 12″ x 12″
• Volume: 1.5 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

If you have small, dense items, such as canned goods, books, or tools that you want to pack together, a small moving box’s dimensions usually work well. They limit how much you can put in, keeping the weight manageable. They’re also great if you need to pack smaller items that go together, such as the contents of a drawer or silverware.

Medium Moving Boxes

• Dimensions: 18″ x 18″ x 16″
• Volume: 3 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

Medium moving box dimensions accommodate most common household goods. Just be careful not to overload them. They’re a top pick for kitchenware, decor, linens, medium appliances, toys, crafts, and office supplies.

Large Moving Boxes

• Dimensions: 18″ x 18″ x 24″
• Volume: 4.5 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

Large moving box dimensions are well-suited for tall, bulky, or oblong items that take up a lot of space. They’re great for clothing, desk lamps, heavy blankets, curtains, speakers, and small or medium electronics.

Extra-Large Moving Boxes

• Dimensions: 24″ x 18″ x 24″
• Volume: 6 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

Extra-large boxes are ideal for bulky but lightweight items, like bed comforters, pillows, lampshades, and winter coats. Just because these boxes can hold up to 65 pounds doesn’t mean they should be packed that heavy — overloading increases the risk of the box tearing or collapsing, and you should only be lifting boxes that weigh 40 lbs or less.

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Specialty Moving Box Sizes and Dimensions

Not all moving boxes are structured the same. Some are made of corrugated cardboard for extra durability. Others have specialized sizes that make them useful specifically for one or two types of items, but they’re worth having on hand.

We’ve broken down the main specialty moving boxes and their common dimensions below.

Wardrobe Boxes

• Dimensions: 18″ x 21″ x 46″ to 24″ x 21″ x 48″
• Volume: 10 to 14 cubic feet (up to 100 pounds)

What they’re for: Clothes on hangers (coats, blouses, skirts, dresses, pants, suits, etc.)

How to pack them:

• Pack a wardrobe box like you would a closet. Hang each piece of clothing on the box’s horizontal metal bar.
• Use the bottom of the box for accessories like belts and shoes to maximize space and balance the weight of the box.

Alternatives: Plastic storage boxes or vacuum-sealed bags work well, especially for bulkier coats or winter garments. Or use pieces of casual clothing to cushion other delicate items in boxes.

Dish Pack Boxes

• Dimensions: 24.125″ x 12″ x 11″
• Volume: 1.85 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

What they’re for: Plates, bowls, glasses, coffee mugs, other cookware

How to pack them:

• Cushion each item with bubble wrap or newspaper before packing.
• Start with the heaviest, sturdiest plates on the bottom row of the divider. Then nest similarly sized dishes vertically in each slot, and pack each section tightly so the items don’t shift during transit.
• Check out this kitchen packing video playlist, our detailed guide to packing dishes, for more tips.

Alternatives: A regular small or medium moving box works in a pinch. Just make sure you label it as fragile. Fill in all gaps so the items can’t move around and chip or break.

Glass Pack Boxes

• Dimensions: 18″ x 18″ x 28″
• Volume: 5.25 cubic feet (up to 120 pounds)

What they’re for: Glasses, mugs, champagne flutes

How to pack them:

• Wrap individual items in bubble wrap or foam sheets before packing.
• Place a layer of bubble wrap across the bottom of the box for extra cushioning.
• Insert items in their designated sections in the glass pack box.

Alternatives: Use a regular small or medium moving box, and make sure there’s extra cushion between the items if you’re not using a divider.

Picture Boxes

• Dimensions: 37″ x 4″ x 27″ to 48.25″ x 4.31″ x 70″
• Volume: 2.3 to 8.42 cubic feet (up to 65 pounds)

What they’re for: Photographs, artwork, mirrors, plaques, other framed objects

How to pack them:

• Wrap each item in bubble wrap or a towel to protect the glass.
• Place one wrapped frame flat inside the box. If packing more than one, stack them horizontally with the heaviest on the bottom, and use dividers or padding between each to prevent damage.
• Fill in excess gaps to prevent shifting while moving.
• Got an odd-shaped frame? Follow our guide to packing odd-shaped mirrors. The same process applies to artwork and other framed items.

Alternatives: If you don’t have boxes that fit the size or shape of your frame, wrap it in a foam sheet or bubble wrap. Use a heavy blanket to double-wrap the frame, then secure it with tape on the corners.

TV Boxes

• Dimensions: 24.5″ x 6.125″ x 48.75″ to 48″ x 6.31″ x 88″
• Volume: 4.2 to 15.42 cubic feet (between 45 and 120 pounds)

What they’re for: Televisions and large computer screens (between 32 and 70 inches)

How to pack them:

• Take a photo of your setup before disassembling. Then, put all cables, remotes, and accessories into a big zipper bag.
• Remove the TV’s stand or wall mount.
• Wrap the screen in a foam sleeve, moving blanket, or bubble wrap to prevent scratches.
• Place the TV upright on a flat surface. Slide the first half of the box over the top of the TV, then secure it with packing tape. Avoid laying the TV flat, as this can cause internal damage.
• Use furniture pads, towels, bubble wrap, or other soft materials to fill out the gap between the screen and the box’s wall.
• Slide the second half of the box onto the TV. Use packing tape to secure the sides of the box.
• Check this guide for everything you need to know about packing and moving a TV.

Alternatives: Carefully wrap the TV with a thick layer of bubble wrap. Use foam cushioning on the corners, then double-wrap the screen in a heavy blanket. Secure the blanket with moving tape. Just keep in mind, this isn’t as protective as a box, so move with caution.

Electronics Boxes

• Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ x 12″ to 24.5″ x 24.5″ x 27.5″
• Volume: 2.8 cubic feet to 9.55 cubic feet (between 65 and 125 pounds)

What they’re for: Computers, game consoles, microwaves, stereo systems, and other electronic appliances or devices

How to pack them:

• Remove all batteries or cartridges to prevent leakage and corrosion.
• Place cables and other attachments in a zipper bag, then tape the bag to the appliance.
• Protect the device in bubble wrap, foam sleeves, blankets, or other soft material.
• Load the heaviest items on the bottom, then stack the rest on top for a tight fit to prevent shifting.

Alternatives: Because electronics are delicate (and expensive), sturdy boxes are highly recommended. If you’d rather skip them, standard 3-cubic-foot boxes or large cartons with plenty of cushioning also work.

Book Boxes

• Dimensions: 12″ x 12″ x 12″
• Volume: 1 cubic foot (up to 65 pounds)

What they’re for: Books, board games, photo albums, small picture frames, DVD collections

How to pack them:

• Double-tape the bottom of your book boxes to reinforce them.
• Add a layer of bubble wrap across the bottom for extra cushioning.
• Sort books by size and pack books with similar dimensions together. Lay books flat with spines facing each other.
• Fill any gaps with packing paper or bubble wrap. Then seal the box with tape.

Alternatives: Any box or plastic storage bin works well. Just stick to the smaller sizes to avoid overpacking. Keep in mind that while book boxes can often hold upwards of 60 pounds, regular cardboard moving boxes aren’t usually as durable.

Plastic Storage Bins and Totes

What they’re for: Cleaning products, office supplies, bathroom items, towels, linens, curtains, tools, miscellaneous accessories

How to pack them:

• Plastic bins are durable and reusable, making them ideal for items you’d typically store in them post-move, like cleaning products or bathroom supplies. Just make sure to cushion the contents and seal any liquids in plastic bags to prevent spills or breakage.
• Fold towels and linens and place them on the bottom. Arrange other items on top tightly to avoid excess room that allows for movement.
• Reinforce the bin’s lid with moving tape.

Alternatives: Any kind of organizational container can usually substitute for a plastic storage bin. Metal or wood crates, wire baskets, and even spare suitcases, backpacks, or gym bags often fit these items just fine. In a pinch, you can leave lightweight items in your dresser or desk drawers and shrink wrap them shut, although this will make the larger item heavier to lift, so proceed with caution.

Plastic bins come in a wide range of sizes, making them incredibly versatile during a move. Whether you need something small to contain miscellaneous craft or office supplies or you want something large for holiday decorations, you can find a plastic bin that fits. Check out common volumes and their typical dimensions below.

Plastic Storage Bin Size Chart

Plastic Bin Size	Volume	Typical Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth)
Small	5 gallons	9.9″ x 13.2″ x 17.63″ 8.9″ x 12.5″ x 17.1″ 8.6″ x 12.3″ x 16.4″
Medium	12-20 gallons	12.5″ x 22″ x 16.3″ (12 gallon) 12.5″ x 26.9″ x 18″ (17 gallon) 16.25″ x 17.5″ x 23.75″ (20 gallon)
Large	20-40 gallons	15.75″ x 18.25″ x 23″ (20 gallon) 16.09″ x 21.92″ x 32.42″ (30 gallon) 16.4″ x 22″ x 38.2″ (40 gallon)
Extra Large	40-75 gallons	18″ x 21.37″ x 36.75″ (40 gallon) 23.2″ x 21.1″ x 46.5″ (64 gallon) 22.52″ x 23.71″ x 46″ (75 gallon)

How Many Boxes Do You Need?

Ultimately, it depends on how much you have to pack. If you’re a minimalist at heart or you have more stuff than usual, the number of boxes you’ll need might be more or less than what’s typically recommended by home size. Don’t be afraid to adjust based on your unique move and needs.

An easy way to estimate the number of boxes is to plan for 1 box for every 10 square feet of living space. It’s not a hard-and-fast rule, but it can give you a starting point. If you have rooms with more stuff in them, or if you’re packing in smaller boxes to cut down on weight, you’ll likely need more. You could also pick up a moving box kit to get started. Kits are usually packaged by home size.

If you need a general breakdown based on home size, read through the table below. It doesn’t include specialty boxes, like TV or wardrobe boxes. However, it’s a good starting point, and you can always pick up more boxes later if you decide you need them. In general, it’s better to have more boxes than you need than fewer.

Recommended Box Count Chart

Home Type	Small Boxes	Medium Boxes	Large Boxes
College Dorm	2	5	2
Apartment	10	10	10
Small House (1 to 2 Bedrooms)	20	20	10-15
Large House (3+ Bedrooms)	25	35	15-25

What Are the Best Size Boxes for Moving?

The right size moving box depends on what and how much you’re packing. If you must settle for one size, medium boxes tend to work well enough for the vast majority of items.

Generally, it’s best to use a variety of sizes. That way, you can split your belongings in ways that make sense. For example, maybe you’re an avid reader with a home library. If you tried to shove everything into an extra-large box, it might fit and close just fine, but you’d want to think twice before trying to lift it. The weight would likely tear out the bottom, or be too heavy to move safely.

 

“In a pinch, you can leave lightweight items in your dresser or desk drawers and shrink wrap them shut, although this will make the larger item heavier to lift, so proceed with caution.”

 

On the other hand, trying to shove lightweight but bulky items (like towels) into small boxes creates its own issues. You’ll likely be left with far more boxes to move than if you’d chosen a larger option.

Review the chart from the previous section to help you choose the right assortment of sizes based on your home size.

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Tips for Choosing and Using the Right Size Boxes

To help you decide what the right box sizes should be for your move, consider these tips:

• Try to keep boxes 40 pounds or under each, regardless of dimensions or how much the box is rated to hold. This prevents strain while lifting and reduces the risk of the box’s bottom falling out. If you think a box looks overloaded or if it’s heavier than 40 pounds, split up the items. It’s better to have two smaller boxes filled correctly than one big box that’s difficult to move.
• Choose specialty boxes when they make sense. They usually offer better protection for those specific items, so they’re a good investment, especially if you have things like work clothes, paintings, or electronics that would benefit from the extra care.
• Pack fragile items in the smallest boxes they’ll fit in with plenty of padding. They’ll have less room to move around, making it less likely they’ll break.
• Leave extra-large boxes for big items that can’t be broken down or for large, lightweight items like comforters and pillows. Everything else should go into small and medium boxes, which are usually easier to move.
• Choose a plastic storage bin instead of a cardboard box if you’re packing liquids like cleaners or food products. That way, if something leaks, it won’t disintegrate the box.
• Consider looking for free moving boxes. While this is great in a pinch or if you need to keep costs low, it’s often recommended to buy new moving boxes. They don’t have the wear and tear that could leave them prone to breaking.