Trusted Full-Service
Local Moving Company
in Chicago

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Trusted Full-Service
Local Moving Company
in Chicago

Moovers Chicago Logo

Trusted Full-Service
Local Moving Company
in Chicago

How Many Moving Boxes Do I Need

Mar 12, 2025

Planning a move? Working with professional residential moving services can make your relocation smoother, but one question remains constant: the number of boxes you’ll need. Many homeowners struggle with this decision, often caught between getting too many or too few boxes for their belongings. This guide will help you make smart choices about your packing supplies, saving you time and reducing stress during your move.

 

Assessing Your Belongings

Start with a room-by-room inventory of your possessions. Sort your items into groups like clothing, books, kitchen items, and electronics. Pay special attention to breakable items that need extra protection. Check if large furniture pieces fit through doorways or need taking apart. Watch the weight of your items to avoid overloaded boxes. Create an inventory list for each category to help you figure out your box needs accurately.

 

Estimating Box Sizes Needed

Pick box sizes based on what you’re packing to keep your items safe during the move:

  • Fragile Items: Small boxes provide better protection for delicate objects
  • Heavy Objects: Use small boxes for books and dense items to prevent strain
  • Light but Big Items: Large boxes work well for pillows and blankets
  • Daily Items: Medium boxes handle most household goods easily

 

Packing Strategies and Tips

Pack smart by organizing your move systematically. Prepare your supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers should be on hand before you start. Group items by room or type to stay organized. Pack rarely-used items first, saving daily necessities for last. 

Fill boxes entirely but keep them manageable. Protect breakable items with proper cushioning. Mark boxes clearly with contents and room destinations. Keep a master list of packed items to track your progress.

 

Specialized Boxes for Fragile Items

Keep your delicate items safe with proper packing materials:

  • Dish Barrels: Strong boxes with extra padding for kitchen items
  • Wardrobe Boxes: Hang clothes directly to prevent wrinkles
  • Picture Boxes: Custom fit for artwork and mirrors
  • Electronics Boxes: Extra protection for valuable devices

 

Calculating Total Box Quantity

Based on your inventory, make a practical estimate of your box needs. Sort items by size and type first. Pack more significant, lighter items in big boxes and keep heavy or fragile items in smaller ones. Think about how many items fit safely in each box type. Keep the packed weight reasonable for lifting. Add 10% extra boxes for unexpected needs.

 

Ready to start packing? Make your move easier by ordering your boxes today. Our moving experts can help you choose the right quantities and types for your needs. Visit our office to get started with your packing supplies.

 

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