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What Size Moving Truck Do I Need?

By Hire Moving Labor Editorial Team · Published

Bedroom counts are only a rough guide — a sparsely furnished three-bedroom can fit in less space than a packed two-bedroom. This guide lists the published dimensions of common rental trucks, explains what actually drives the size you need, and shows how the choice affects loading help.

Where these numbers come from

The table uses U-Haul's own truck comparison figures, checked October 2026. Other rental companies use different lengths, so compare inside dimensions and volume rather than the name of the size. Rental fleets change; confirm the exact truck when you reserve.

U-Haul is a trademark of its owner. Hire Moving Labor is an independent marketplace and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by U-Haul.

What decides the size you need

Count the large items, not the rooms. These usually push you up a size:

  • Sectional sofas, sleeper sofas, and large recliners.
  • King beds, bunk beds, and tall headboards.
  • Large dressers, armoires, and china cabinets.
  • Appliances such as a washer, dryer, or extra refrigerator.
  • Garage, shed, and patio items — tools, bikes, grills, outdoor furniture.
  • A storage unit you are emptying at the same time.

If you are between two sizes

A slightly larger truck is usually easier than a second trip. Running out of space means unloading, driving back, and paying for extra time on the truck and any crew you booked. On the other hand, larger trucks are harder to park and maneuver, so check the street, driveway, and any building loading area at both addresses before choosing.

How truck size affects loading help

Hire Moving Labor is a marketplace for independent moving companies, not a moving company. Bookings are labor-only: you arrange the rental truck, trailer, or portable container, and the company you choose provides the crew.

When you request loading help, tell the company the truck size, where it will park, and your large items. That helps them plan the crew and time. For how long loading takes and how many people to book, see the linked pages below rather than guessing from truck size alone.

U-Haul rental truck sizes (as published by U-Haul)

U-Haul rental truck sizes (as published by U-Haul)
TruckSuggested home sizeInside (L × W × H)Volume
10' truckStudio / 1-bedroom apartment9'11" × 6'4" × 6'2"402 cu. ft.
15' truck1-bedroom home / 2-bedroom apartment15' × 7'8" × 7'2"764 cu. ft.
20' truck2-bedroom home / 3-bedroom apartment19'6" × 7'8" × 7'2"1,016 cu. ft.
26' truck3–4 bedroom home26'2" × 8'2" × 8'3"1,682 cu. ft.

Before you reserve a truck

  1. List every large piece of furniture and every appliance.
  2. Add the garage, patio, and any storage unit contents.
  3. Compare inside dimensions and volume, not just the truck's name.
  4. Check parking and clearance at both addresses.
  5. Confirm pickup and return times so loading and unloading fit inside them.
  6. Book loading or unloading help for the times the truck is in hand.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 15' truck enough for a two-bedroom apartment?
U-Haul suggests a 15' truck for a two-bedroom apartment. If you have large furniture, many boxes, or patio and storage items, consider the 20'.
Do I need a special license to drive a 26' rental truck?
Ask the rental company. Requirements depend on the truck and your state, and the rental company sets its own driver rules.
Does Hire Moving Labor provide the truck?
No. You rent the truck yourself. Companies on the marketplace provide labor to load and unload it.

Related pages

More rental trucks & moving containers guides

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