How Many Boxes Do I Need For Moving House?

The numbers below assume a typical UK household with average possessions. Heavy collectors (books, vinyl, ceramics) should add 15–25%; minimalists can deduct 10–15%.

• Studio flat: 10–15 medium, 4–6 large, 2 wardrobe, 2 picture
• 1-bed: 15–20 medium, 6–10 large, 3 wardrobe, 2 picture
• 2-bed: 25–35 medium, 10–15 large, 4–5 wardrobe, 3 picture
• 3-bed house: 35–50 medium, 15–25 large, 6–8 wardrobe, 4 picture
• 4-bed house: 50–70 medium, 25–35 large, 8–10 wardrobe, 5 picture
• 5-bed+: 70+ medium, 35+ large, 10+ wardrobe, 6+ picture

Use small/medium boxes for anything heavy (books, plates, tinned food). Reserve large boxes for soft, bulky items like bedding, cushions and clothing. Specialist boxes save hours of wrapping for kitchen, wardrobe and picture-frame items.

• Small (1.5 cu ft) — books, files, tools
• Medium (3 cu ft) — most household items
• Large (4.5 cu ft) — bedding, toys, linen
• Wardrobe — hanging clothes, no folding needed
• Picture/mirror — flat with corner protectors
• Dish-pack with cell dividers — glasses and crockery

Cardboard is cheaper up front but ends up in landfill. Plastic crate hire is greener, sturdier and typically £1–£3 per crate per week — and most UK movers will deliver and collect.