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How many moving boxes do you need? The ultimate calculator for your move.
Planning a move raises many questions, but one of the most pressing is: «"How many moving boxes do I actually need?"» Buying too few items means having to frantically buy more during the stress of moving. Buying too many wastes money and space.
As moving professionals from Easy Moving GmbH We know this challenge all too well. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide. Here you'll find tried-and-tested rules of thumb, detailed calculators, and expert tips to ensure you have exactly the right number of boxes ready in the end.
At a glance: Quick rules of thumb for those in a hurry
Before we go into detail, here are three tried and tested rules of thumb that will give you a first rough estimate:
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Per square meter (m²): Expect approximately 0.5 to 1 box per square meter Living space. For an 80 sq m apartment, that would be 40 to 80 boxes. Minimalists use 0.5, collectors more like 1.
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Per person in the household: Plan with Approximately 20-25 boxes per adult and approximately 10 boxes per child.
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Per room: A very rough estimate is Approximately 15-20 boxes per room (Kitchen and basement often require more).
These methods provide a good initial guide. However, for more precise planning, you should use the following, more detailed methods.
Method 1: Precise calculation based on square meters and lifestyle
This is the most precise rule of thumb. It takes into account not only the size of your apartment, but also your personal lifestyle.
Minimalist household (little decoration, only the essentials):
Your living space in square meters x 0.5 = number of boxesExample: 60 sq m x 0.5 = 30 boxes
Typical household (average furnishings and decorations):
Your living space in square meters x 0.75 = number of boxesExample: 80 sq m x 0.75 = 60 boxes
Collector's household (lots of books, decorations, full basement):
Your living space in square meters x 1 = number of boxesExample: 100 sq m x 1 = 100 boxes
Method 2: Estimation based on household size and number of people
This method is ideal for families and shared apartments, as it uses the number of people as its basis.
| Household type | Average number of cartons |
| 1-room apartment (single) | 25-35 boxes |
| 2-room apartment (couple) | 50-60 boxes |
| 3-room apartment (family) | 70-90 boxes |
| 4-room apartment / house | 90 – 120+ boxes |
Pro tip: For every full meter of bookshelf, add an extra 3-4 boxes of books. A full wardrobe will require approximately 3-5 large boxes.
Which rooms will hold the most boxes?
Not every room is the same. Some are real "cardboard hogs." Plan for extra boxes in these areas from the outset:
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Kitchen: This is where dishes, pots, small appliances, and supplies are stored. Plan ahead. 15-20 boxes one, many of them smaller and more stable for heavy dishes.
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Basement & Attic: The classic places for things you rarely need. Often these are 10-15 additional boxes Necessary. Critically review the contents and use this opportunity to declutter!
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Study & Library: Books, files, and folders are heavy. Use special, smaller book boxes for these items. You can expect to need 3-4 boxes per meter of shelf space.
It's not just the quantity that counts: The right types of moving boxes.
You don't need just one type of cardboard box. A good mix makes moving safer and easier.
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Standard moving boxes (approx. 60 liters): The all-rounder for clothes, toys, pillows and lighter items.
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Boxes of books (approx. 40 liters): Smaller and sturdier, ideal for books, folders, dishes and heavy items. This way the box isn't too heavy to carry.
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Wardrobe boxes: Cardboard boxes with integrated clothes rail. Ideal for suits, shirts, blouses and dresses that should not wrinkle.
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Glass cartons with inserts: These offer special protection for glasses and cups and prevent breakage.
Professional tips: How to reduce the number of boxes needed
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Radical decluttering: The best way to save on boxes: Start 3-4 weeks before the move by sorting through everything you no longer need. Sell it, give it away, or dispose of it.
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Use suitcases and bags: Fill suitcases, sports bags and backpacks with clothes, books or unbreakable items.
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Filling cavities: Make use of the space in large pieces of furniture. The chest of drawers can remain filled with socks, the large pot can be used to transport spices.
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Use original packaging: Especially for electrical appliances such as televisions or computers, the original boxes offer the best protection.
Conclusion: It's better to plan for a few extra boxes.
Our experience as Moving company in Zurich This shows that it's always better to have 5-10 extra boxes in reserve than to have to improvise on moving day. Many DIY stores, and we as a moving company, offer to take back unused boxes.
Properly planning the number of boxes is a crucial step for a stress-free move. If you're unsure or would prefer to leave the entire move to professionals, we're here for you.
Contact Easy Umzug GmbH for a free consultation and a no-obligation quote. We'll help you not only with packing, but with every step of your move!
