Moving Box Comparison: Choosing the Right Boxes for Your Move (2024)

Everything you need to know about moving boxes

You can't move without boxes. But picking the right ones and getting enough for your move — that can feel overwhelming.With so manychoices online and in stores, how do you know where to start?We’ll help you figure out what you needso you canstartpacking.

Figuring out how many boxesto buy

Before you order moving supplies,estimate your needs with this chart:

Note: If your homehas more to pack than the average home, you may want togo up one column to make sure you have enough.

Having avarietyof boxesmeans you’ll always have the perfectonefor every item.Hereare someyou may want to have on hand:

Standard box sizes

Moving boxes typically come in sizes from small to extra-large.

• Small — Measure around 16" x 12" x 12". These are ideal for packing things like books, CDs and DVDs, andkitchen gadgets.
• Medium — Measure around 18" x 16" x 18" and are great for things like towels and decorative items.
• Large — Measure around 18" x 18" x 24. They hold items like small appliances, bedding, drapes, and smaller pillows.
• Extra-large — Measure around 24" x 20" x 24"to holdbig,lightweightitems like comforters,pillowsand sports equipment.

Specialty boxes

Specialty boxesare ideal foroddly shapeditemsorthose thatneedextraprotection.

• Wardrobe— Abig box witha rod across the top forhanging clothes (tip: place shoes,beltsand pursesin the bottom).
• Dish pack — Medium-sizedwith partitions to hold fragile things like cups and mugs.
• Mirror & Picture— Thin,flatanddesigned to holdartwork and mirrors. These are typically adjustable to fit a variety of sizes.
• TV— Theseare designed toprotect flat-screen TVs— mostwill extend to fit a 32”-70” TV.
• Lamp— Made to protect lamps and other tall items.
• Office/file— Small to medium boxesthatusually havehandles andremovable tops.

Check outour packing tipsto learnthe best way to pack the items in your home.

Where to get boxes

You can buy professional-grade moving boxes onlineor at most hardware stores.

If you’re looking for discounts,use these tips to save money on boxes and supplies.

Tip:don't forget about other packing materialslike packing paper,paper padding,plastic wrapand tape (you always need more tape than you think).

Need help?

If you need more guidance on choosing the boxes for your move, leave us a comment below, and we'll be happy to help!