This guide will give you an accurate estimation of how many boxes you'll need for your move based on how many rooms are in your house.
It will also give you a breakdown of how many of each different kind of box to get-from small file boxes to large wardrobe boxes.
How Many Boxes do you Need?
Base the number of boxes you need on the number of rooms that are in your house.
On average, it takes around 10 to 12 boxes to pack one room in a house.
When you take that number and multiply it by the number of rooms in your home, you'll get a rough estimation of approximately how many boxes to obtain for your move.
Below is a chart that details exactly how many boxes you should get for your move in relation to the number of rooms in your house.
As previously mentioned, if you feel that you have more clothes than average or more dishes to pack, you can adjust the numbers to get more of those types of boxes.
| Number of rooms |
Small boxes |
Medium boxes |
Large boxes |
Dish pack boxes |
Wardrobe boxes |
File boxes |
Total |
| 1-2 rooms |
10 |
5 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
25 |
| 3-4 rooms |
15 |
10 |
8 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
40 |
| 5-6 rooms |
25 |
15 |
10 |
5 |
4 |
1 |
60 |
| 7-8 rooms |
40 |
25 |
15 |
5 |
4 |
1 |
90 |
What Kinds of Boxes do you Need?
The first step in deciding on the number of boxes to get for your move is to figure out what kind of boxes you're going to need.
There are several different types of moving boxes that are specifically designed to pack different kinds of items, so it's important to figure out exactly what you'll be packing.
Examples of various types of boxes and the reasons you may need them are:
- If you have a lot of clothing items, you'll need a lot of wardrobe boxes
- Telescope boxes are optimal for transporting artwork
- File boxes are perfect for exactly what their name entails - files
Finding the right boxes for your various belongings will help your move be more organized while also making sure your items are as protected from damage as possible.
Where Do You Find Moving Boxes for Your Move?
There are a lot of places to obtain moving boxes.
If your plan to purchase boxes, they can cost anywhere from $2 to $6 each, depending on the size and the type of box.
If you're moving from a large home with a lot of rooms, the cost of moving boxes can add up pretty quickly.
If you are someone who wants to avoid spending money on moving boxes, there are plenty of options for free moving boxes available to you.
Local stores will usually be more than happy to give you their leftover empty cardboard boxes upon request.
There are also online moving box exchange websites where you can search for people in your area who are giving away used, empty cardboard moving boxes that they have leftover from a recent move.
Ultimately, boxes are only one component in the large process of moving, but having the right amount is essential in making the move a successful one.
Takeaway
- Plan on using about 10 to 12 boxes per room as a general rule.
- Adjust box quantities based on how many clothes, dishes, or paperwork you own.
- Using the right box types helps protect belongings and keeps packing organized.
- Buying boxes can add up quickly, but free box options are often available locally.
- Having the correct number of boxes upfront prevents last-minute packing stress.
Note
Always order a few extra boxes beyond your estimate. Running out of boxes mid-pack is far more stressful than having a small surplus at the end.
Bottom Line
Knowing how many moving boxes you need makes packing faster, cheaper, and far less chaotic.
With a clear estimate and the right mix of box sizes, you can stay organized and protect your belongings from start to finish.
Need help planning your move? Talk to our moving specialists, get a free moving quote, and explore our moving guides for expert tips and step-by-step advice.