How to find the number of moving boxes you need

As moving D-Day approaches you might be scrambling to get your moving checklist ticked off. If only you knew how many boxes you might need for your next move… 

…you can stop frantically Googling now, we have the answer for you. 

This guide will provide an overview of the various types of moving boxes available locally, including their dimensions and ideal uses. We’ll also offer practical methods for estimating the number of boxes you'll need based on your home’s size and the volume of your belongings. 

Let’s start by looking at the type of moving boxes you generally have available.

Types of Moving Boxes

Small boxes

Size: 443mm x 296mm x 299mm

Small boxes are perfect for packing small, personal items such as books, magazines and kitchen utensils. They are also ideal for packing trinkets, small electronics and bathroom essentials. Their compact size makes them easy to handle and stack.

Medium boxes

Size: 610mm x 310mm x 350mm

Medium boxes are versatile and suitable for a variety of items. They work well for packing office supplies, kitchenware and smaller home goods like decorative items or small appliances. These boxes are a good choice for moving light items but require more space than small boxes. Their size makes them manageable and efficient for organising mid-sized items.

Large boxes

Size: 451mm x 451mm x 506mm

Large boxes are designed to accommodate bulkier items such as blankets, towels, pillows and larger home goods. They are ideal for packing items that are too big for medium boxes but not so heavy that they become difficult to lift. These boxes are perfect for consolidating larger, lightweight items and can be used for packing bedding and comforters as well.

Archive boxes

Size: 330mm x 430mm x 300mm

Archive boxes are designed to store paperwork, files and important documents. Their stackable design is perfect for archiving. These boxes are sturdy and help keep documents protected from dust and damage during transport or storage.

Hanger boxes

Size: 550mm x 430mm x 1030mm

Hanger boxes are made to transport clothing directly from your closet, maintaining their crease-free condition. They come with a built-in hanging rod that allows clothes to remain on their hangers, making the moving process more convenient. This type of box is perfect for moving garments like dresses, suits, and coats without needing to fold or iron them later.

TV boxes

Size: 1360mm x 220mm x 800mm

TV boxes are specially crafted to provide maximum protection for your television during transport. They come with cushioning and are designed to accommodate various TV sizes. The box makes sure that your TV remains safe from impacts and scratches, making it a crucial item for anyone moving electronics. Ideal for both flatscreen and older models, this box is essential for preserving the condition of your TV.

Estimating the Number of Moving Boxes

Now, to answer the burning question!

When planning a move, working out the right number of moving boxes can be a challenge and you don’t want to end up not having enough boxes for your move. One of the best ways to estimate the number of boxes you'll need is to use the square footage of your home. 

Here’s a handy guide for you:

A simpler way to figure out how many moving boxes you would need to buy could be based on how many bedrooms your house has: 

Where to get moving boxes?

Searching for ‘where to buy moving boxes near me’? Whether you are looking for moving boxes in Cape Town, Pretoria, PE, Durban or Johannesburg, Stor-Age stores around the country have boxes of all sizes you can purchase. With over 60 stores, you’ll find one of our properties within five minutes of your home. Now that’s convenient!

Don’t forget about tape and bubble wrap. These are all available at our packaging shop at a Stor-Age near you. Check out our locations that sell boxes for moving and more here!

Did you know we have a special offer where you get two FREE boxes when you buy 8? Don’t miss out — visit us before you start packing for your move and tick boxes off your moving checklist. 

Lastly, if you are wondering how many boxes you can fit in a self storage unit then use our space estimator tool.

Still unsure of how many boxes or how much tape you need for safely storing your household or business items? Our team of self storage experts is here to help. Simply give us a call on 0861 18 18 18 and we will make sure you only order the amount of packaging that you need.