Moving Container Sizes

Moving container sizes and dimensions

Several companies, including PODS, U-Haul, U-Pack and Go Mini’s, offer moving containers that vary in dimensions, volume and weight capacity.

To determine which option best fits your needs, you can use cubic footage to measure the total internal storage space available for stacking boxes and furniture. Evaluating the weight capacity is also important, as it determines whether a container can safely transport heavier items, such as large appliances or solid wood furniture.

For smaller moves

For those with smaller loads, U-Pack offers a single option, the ReloCube, which is more compact than most competitors' small containers.

Alternatively, PODS and U-Haul both offer 8-foot containers designed for a single room’s worth of belongings. Between the two, the PODS 8-foot unit is more spacious, offering 402 cubic feet compared to U-Haul’s 257, and has a higher weight limit, better suited for heavy furniture and appliances.

For medium and large moves

PODS and Go Mini’s provide 12-foot and 16-foot containers with similar dimensions, though Go Mini’s units generally offer more internal volume. The 12-foot model typically accommodates two to three rooms, while the 16-foot version can hold three to four rooms. Both are large enough for a king-sized bed, but the 16-foot size is better equipped to handle major appliances like washers and dryers.

For extra-large moves

For the largest residential moves, Go Mini’s is the only provider to offer a 20-foot container, which boasts 1,280 cubic feet of space and the capacity to move five to six rooms at once.

» LEARN: What is a moving container?

Moving container size by home size

Before reserving a moving container, conduct a thorough inventory of your belongings to ensure you select the most cost-effective size. Many providers offer online estimation tools that calculate the required volume based on your room count and specific furniture items. For instance, if you are transitioning between furnished spaces, you likely only need a small container to transport personal boxes and décor rather than large furniture pieces.

The general recommendations for moving container sizes based on the home’s square footage are:

• 500 sq. ft. or less: 8 ft.
• 500 to 800 sq. ft.: 12 ft.
• 800 to 1,200 sq. ft.: 18 ft.
• 1,200 sq. ft. or more: 20 ft. or multiple containers

You’ll also need to verify that your property can physically accommodate the delivery. Measure your driveway or designated drop-off area to ensure there is enough overhead and ground clearance for both the container and the delivery truck’s hydraulic lift. You can check the provider's website for specific clearance requirements.

Depending on your inventory and available space, renting two containers instead of one can offer significant flexibility. This approach allows you to pack in stages: you can have the first container delivered for non-essential items and sent to storage early, then have a second container delivered for the items you'll need right up until moving day.

Moving container size by room count

When selecting a container size, consider both your home’s square footage and the specific number of rooms you are packing. Online estimation tools typically calculate your needs by totaling all rooms – including bedrooms, living areas, and dining spaces – to provide a more accurate recommendation.

» RELATED: How to pack a moving pod

Studio and one-bedroom moves

For smaller moves, an 8-foot container – or even a more compact option – is often sufficient depending on the specific items you need to transport. These 8-foot units are generally recommended for residences of 500 square feet or less, as they can typically accommodate a king-sized bed, a sofa under 92 inches long, and a few layers of moving boxes.

Two- to three-bedroom moves

For moves involving two to three rooms within 800 square feet or less, a 12-foot container may be the most suitable choice. These units provide enough volume to accommodate:

• King-sized bed
• Twin bed
• Small sofa
• Several dressers
• Dining table
• Miscellaneous smaller furniture
• Packed boxes

Because of this capacity, a 12-foot container is typically the ideal option for moving the combined belongings of two people.

Three- to four-bedroom moves

A 16-foot container is generally recommended for three- to four-room moves from spaces of 1,200 square feet or less. It’s ideal for families or individuals with a high volume of furniture and stored items, as it provides sufficient clearance for large items. In addition to accommodating multiple bed sets, these containers can hold major appliances like a washer and dryer, as well as approximately 60 standard moving boxes.

Full home and large moves

The 20-foot moving container, the largest portable option available, is designed to accommodate the contents of five to six rooms. Its expansive capacity makes it ideal for households with large, bulky furniture and a high volume of boxed storage items. Beyond standard furniture, this container can comfortably accommodate major kitchen and utility appliances, including a refrigerator, a deep freezer and a dishwasher.

Moving container weight limits and packing

Weight limits vary significantly by provider, so it’s important to check these specifications before booking. All-steel containers, such as those from 1-800-Pack-Rat or Zippy Shell, typically support more weight than aluminum models.

Since the moving industry estimates roughly 1,000 to 1,500 pounds per furnished room, a six-room home would require a container with at least a 6,000-pound capacity. As a best practice, aim to load your container to only 75% of its maximum limit. You can use online calculators to help estimate your total inventory weight. Here are some essential packing rules to ensure a smooth move with a portable container:

• Distribute weight evenly: Load the heaviest items, such as appliances, at the back and spread other heavy pieces across the floor to maintain balance.
• Secure furniture: Tie down large items like dressers and headboards to prevent them from tipping or shifting during transit.
• Maximize space: Stack lighter boxes on top of furniture and fill all gaps to minimize movement.
• Prioritize accessibility: Place seasonal or rarely used items in the back, keeping daily essentials near the door for easy access.
• Protect surfaces: Wrap all furniture and appliances in moving blankets to prevent scratches and dents.
• Respect weight limits: Avoid overloading the container, as excessive weight can damage both the lifting mechanism and your belongings. If you’re unsure about fit, consult your provider for a size recommendation.

» LEARN: How much does it cost to move?

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