Moving Truck Size Calculator
Select your home size below to get a truck size recommendation, or browse the full size guide to compare capacities. Truck measurements are approximate industry standards — verify exact specs with your rental company.
Find Your Truck Size
Truck Size Reference Guide
Approximate dimensions and capacities. Specifications vary by rental company fleet (typically Penske, U-Haul, Budget, Enterprise) — confirm with your provider.
| Truck Size | Approx. Cargo Space | Max Payload | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-foot truck | ~400 cu ft | ~2,810 lbs | Studio, small 1BR (light) |
| 12–14-foot truck | ~500–600 cu ft | ~3,500–4,000 lbs | 1-bedroom apartment |
| 15–16-foot truck | ~800–850 cu ft | ~6,000 lbs | 2-bedroom apartment, small 3BR |
| 20-foot truck | ~1,000 cu ft | ~7,500 lbs | 2–3-bedroom house |
| 22–24-foot truck | ~1,200–1,300 cu ft | ~8,500–9,000 lbs | 3-bedroom house (full) |
| 26-foot truck | ~1,400–1,700 cu ft | ~10,000 lbs | 3–5-bedroom house |
Note: "Payload" is the maximum cargo weight; "Cargo space" is the interior box volume. Truck dimensions vary by manufacturer. A standard rule of thumb is 1 cubic foot holds approximately 7 lbs of household goods (AMSA). Always confirm exact specs with your rental provider before booking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A 15-foot or 16-foot truck is usually sufficient for a 2-bedroom apartment with average furnishings (4,000–6,000 lbs). If you have a lot of bulky furniture or a full dining set, size up to a 20-foot truck to avoid two trips.
A 20-foot truck (approx. 1,000 cubic feet) fits 3–4 rooms and up to ~7,500 lbs. A 26-foot truck (approx. 1,400–1,700 cubic feet) fits 5–6 rooms and up to ~10,000 lbs. The 26-foot truck is the largest available from most consumer rental companies. Both require a standard driver's license in most US states.
Consumer rental trucks up to 26 feet do not require a commercial driver's license (CDL) in most US states — a standard Class C license is sufficient. However, requirements vary by state. Check your state DMV rules before renting, especially if you are renting a 26-foot truck or towing a vehicle trailer.
Local rentals (1 day, under 50 miles) run $40–$130/day for a 10–16-foot truck and $80–$180/day for a 20–26-foot truck, plus $0.79–$1.09/mile. One-way long-distance rentals vary widely by route and season — common rates are $800–$2,500 for cross-country moves.