Whether planning a local move or a long-distance relocation, understanding how to choose the correct truck size is essential.
Moving can be daunting, and one of the most crucial decisions is selecting the appropriate size moving truck. The right choice can save time, money, and stress, while the wrong one can lead to multiple trips or wasted space. Whether planning a local move or a long-distance relocation, understanding how to choose the correct truck size is essential. This guide will provide priceless insights into selecting the perfect moving truck size, with expert advice from Aardvark Movers Inc., a renowned professional moving company.
Assess the Size of the Current Living Space
The first step in determining the right moving truck size is to evaluate the current living space. Consider the number of rooms, including bedrooms, living areas, and storage spaces. A general rule of thumb is:
Studio or small one-bedroom apartment: ten to fourteen-foot truck
Large one-bedroom or small two-bedroom home: fifteen to seventeen-foot truck
Two to three-bedroom home: twenty to twenty-six-foot truck
Four-bedroom home or larger: twenty-six-foot truck or larger
However, these are just guidelines, and other factors should be considered for a more accurate estimation.
Inventory of Belongings
Creating a detailed inventory of all items to be moved is pivotal. This inventory should include furniture, appliances, boxes, and any unusual or oversized items. Pay special attention to large pieces such as sofas, beds, dining tables, and entertainment centers. These items often dictate the minimum size of the truck needed.
Consider the Volume of Belongings
Professional moving companies like Aardvark Movers Inc. often use cubic feet to measure the volume of belongings. As a rough estimate:
Studio apartment: 300-400 cubic feet
One-bedroom apartment: 400-800 cubic feet
Two-bedroom home: 800-1,200 cubic feet
Three-bedroom home: 1,200-1,700 cubic feet
Four-bedroom home: 1,700-2,100 cubic feet
Understanding these volume estimates can help in selecting an appropriately sized truck.
Factor in Packing Efficiency
How items are packed and loaded can significantly impact the space needed. Professional movers are skilled at maximizing space through efficient packing and loading techniques. If hiring a professional moving company like Aardvark Movers Inc., their expertise can often reduce the truck size needed compared to a DIY move.
Consider Special Items
Some items require extra space or special handling. These may include:
Pianos
Large appliances
Workout equipment
Antiques or fragile items
Outdoor furniture or equipment
When such items are part of the move, it's often wise to opt for a slightly larger truck to accommodate these pieces safely.
Account for Packing Materials
Remember to factor in the space needed for packing materials. Boxes, padding, and protective wrapping can take up a lot of space. As a general rule, add ten to fifteen percent to the estimated space needed for packing materials.
Think About the Distance and Number of Trips
Making multiple trips with a smaller truck might be feasible for local moves. However, using a single, larger truck is usually more cost-effective and time-efficient for long-distance moves. Consider the distance of the move when deciding between a larger truck or multiple trips with a smaller one.
Consult with Professional Movers
Professional moving companies like Aardvark Movers Inc. have extensive experience estimating truck sizes for various types of moves. They can supply valuable insights based on the specific details of the move. Many offer free consultations or online tools to help determine the right truck size.
Consider Driving Comfort
While having enough space is essential, it's equally important to consider the comfort level of driving a large truck. For those uncomfortable with driving larger vehicles, opt for a slightly smaller truck and make an extra trip, or better yet, hire professional movers who are experienced in handling large trucks.
Factor in Parking and Access
Consider the parking and access situations at both the origin and destination. Narrow streets, low-hanging trees, or tight parking spaces restrict the size of trucks that can be used. In such cases, it may be necessary to use a smaller truck or rely on the expertise of professional movers who can navigate these challenges.
Leave Room for Last-Minute Items
It's common to underestimate the amount of stuff to be moved. Leaving a little extra space can be helpful for last-minute items or items overlooked during the initial inventory.
Choosing the right-sized moving truck is fundamental in planning a successful move. By carefully examining factors such as the size of the current living space, inventory of belongings, special items, and the distance of the move, it's possible to select a truck that will make the moving process smoother and more efficient. When in doubt, consulting with a professional moving company like Aardvark Movers Inc. can provide expert guidance and peace of mind. Their experience and knowledge can help avoid the pitfalls of choosing a too-small or unnecessarily large truck, ultimately saving time, money, and stress during the moving process.
Aardvark Movers Inc. is a reputed moving company in Phoenix, Arizona, with experienced and skilled movers to assist with residential moving and commercial moving. We serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Glendale, Cave Creek, Carefree, Surprise, Sun City, Paradise Valley, Apache Junction, Maricopa County, and all of Arizona. 602-716-5555.
