How Many Boxes Do I Need to Move?
The number of boxes depends on home size: Studio = 10–20, 1BR = 20–40, 2BR = 40–60, 3BR = 60–80, 4BR = 80–120, 5+ BR = 120–160 boxes.
Total Boxes = (Number of Rooms x 10–15) + Kitchen (15–20) + Garage (10–20)
Knowing how many boxes you need before moving day prevents the stress of running out mid-pack. This guide provides accurate box counts based on your home size and a room-by-room breakdown. Order moving boxes from Amazon to save 20–40% vs. buying from your moving company.
What This Means
These estimates are based on national averages from licensed moving companies and industry data for 2026. Your actual costs may vary by 10–15%. Use this as a starting point and get multiple quotes.
Recommended Moving Supplies
Editor's picks to make your move easier and more affordable
Medium Moving Boxes (20-Pack)
Sturdy 18x14x12" corrugated boxes. Ideal for kitchenware, books, and general household items.
Check Price on AmazonLarge Moving Boxes (12-Pack)
Heavy-duty 20x20x15" boxes for bedding, lampshades, and bulky lightweight items.
Check Price on AmazonBook Boxes Small (25-Pack)
Extra-strong 16x12x12" boxes designed for heavy books, records, and tools.
Check Price on AmazonScotch Heavy Duty Packing Tape (6-Pack)
Industrial-strength tape with dispenser. Seals boxes securely for long-distance moves.
Check Price on AmazonBubble Wrap Roll 12" x 36ft
Perforated cushioning wrap for fragile items like dishes, glassware, and electronics.
Check Price on AmazonPacking Paper 200 Sheets
Clean, unprinted newsprint paper for wrapping dishes, glasses, and delicate items.
Check Price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our editorial recommendations.
How Many Boxes by Home Size
| Home Size | Small | Medium | Large | Wardrobe | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 5–8 | 3–6 | 2–4 | 1 | 10–20 |
| 1-Bedroom | 8–15 | 6–12 | 4–8 | 1–2 | 20–40 |
| 2-Bedroom | 15–22 | 12–18 | 8–14 | 2–3 | 40–60 |
| 3-Bedroom | 22–30 | 18–25 | 12–18 | 3–4 | 60–80 |
| 4-Bedroom | 30–45 | 25–35 | 16–25 | 4–6 | 80–120 |
| 5+ Bedroom | 45–60 | 35–50 | 25–35 | 6–8 | 120–160 |
Save money by ordering moving box kits from Amazon.
Boxes Needed by Room
| Room | Small | Medium | Large | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | 8–10 | 5–8 | 2–3 | 1–2 dish packs |
| Bedroom (each) | 3–5 | 3–5 | 2–4 | 1 wardrobe |
| Living Room | 3–5 | 3–6 | 2–4 | — |
| Bathroom (each) | 2–4 | 1–2 | — | — |
| Home Office | 4–8 | 2–4 | 1–2 | — |
| Garage/Storage | 2–5 | 3–6 | 3–8 | — |
Use bubble wrap for fragile kitchen items.
Complete Packing Supplies List
| Supply | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | 4BR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Packing tape rolls | 2–3 | 3–5 | 5–7 | 7–10 | 10–15 |
| Bubble wrap (feet) | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 150 |
| Packing paper (lbs) | 5 | 10 | 15 | 25 | 35 |
| Markers | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| Furniture pads | 2–4 | 4–6 | 6–10 | 10–15 | 15–20 |
Order: packing tape | moving labels | furniture blankets
Where to Get Free Moving Boxes
- Grocery stores: Ask for banana boxes
- Liquor stores: Boxes with dividers for glasses
- Nextdoor/Facebook Marketplace
- Bookstores: Sturdy book boxes
- U-Haul Box Exchange: Free community program
Frequently Asked Questions
How many boxes do I need for a 2-bedroom apartment?
A 2-bedroom apartment typically requires 40–60 boxes: 15–22 small, 12–18 medium, 8–14 large, and 2–3 wardrobe boxes.
How many boxes does a 3-bedroom house need?
A 3-bedroom house needs 60–80 boxes on average.
What size boxes should I get for moving?
Small (16x12x12) for heavy items like books. Medium (18x18x16) are most versatile. Large (18x18x24) for lightweight bulky items. Never put heavy items in large boxes.
How much do moving boxes cost?
Individual boxes cost $1–$5 each. Bulk kits from Amazon cost $50–$150. A 2-bedroom move’s boxes cost $80–$200 total.
Should I buy boxes or get them from the moving company?
Buying yourself from Amazon or Home Depot is 30–50% cheaper than purchasing through your moving company.