Introduction

Choosing the right removal truck is one of the most important parts of planning a successful move.

A truck that's too small may require multiple trips, increasing both time and labour costs. A truck that's larger than necessary may not be the most efficient option either.

At J Doolan Relocation Specialists, we've been matching customers with the right truck size since 1921. Our experienced estimators assess your furniture volume, access conditions and destination to recommend the most suitable vehicle for your move.

If you're unsure where to start, our free Moving Volume Calculator can estimate the size of your move in just a few minutes.

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Estimate Your Moving Volume

How Is Truck Size Calculated?

Professional removalists don't simply estimate based on the number of bedrooms.

Instead, we calculate:

• Total furniture volume (m³)

• Number of cartons

• Large appliances

• Outdoor furniture

• Garage contents

• Access requirements

• Distance between properties

• Loading and unloading time

This ensures we recommend the most efficient truck for your move.

Why Furniture Volume Matters

The amount of furniture you're moving determines how much space is required inside the truck.

For example:

A two-bedroom apartment with minimal furniture may require less truck space than a fully furnished one-bedroom home with a garage full of equipment.

That's why an inventory-based estimate is always more accurate than simply counting bedrooms.

Typical Truck Sizes

Small Removal Truck

Ideal for:

• Studio apartments

• Small one-bedroom units

• Limited furniture

Typical volume:

Approximately 15–20 cubic metres

Medium Removal Truck

Suitable for:

• Two-bedroom homes

• Small townhouses

• Apartments with lifts

Typical volume:

Around 25–35 cubic metres

Large Removal Truck

Best suited for:

• Three to four-bedroom homes

• Larger family households

• Office relocations

• Homes with garages

Typical volume:

35–50+ cubic metres

Multiple Trucks

For very large homes, commercial relocations or complex moves, multiple trucks may be recommended to complete the move efficiently.

What Happens If the Truck Is Too Small?

An undersized truck may require:

• Multiple trips

• Additional travel time

• Longer labour hours

• Delays to your moving schedule

Choosing the correct truck from the beginning usually results in a smoother and more cost-effective move.

What Else Affects Truck Selection?

Truck size isn't based on furniture alone.

Our estimators also consider:

Property Access

Steep driveways

Narrow streets

Apartment loading zones

Height restrictions

Limited parking

Distance Between Properties

Long-distance moves often benefit from larger trucks to minimise travel time.

Heavy or Oversized Items

Items such as:

• Pianos

• Pool tables

• Large refrigerators

• Marble dining tables

• Gym equipment

may require additional space or specialised loading equipment.

Use Our Free Moving Volume Calculator

The easiest way to estimate your truck size is by using our online Moving Volume Calculator.

Simply enter your furniture inventory and we'll estimate:

✔ Furniture volume (m³)

✔ Recommended truck size

✔ Suggested crew size

✔ Estimated moving requirements

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Try the Moving Volume Calculator

Why Choose J Doolan Relocation Specialists?

With over 100 years of industry experience, we know that every move is different.

Our experienced estimators don't rely on guesswork.

Instead, we carefully assess your furniture, property access and moving requirements to recommend the most efficient truck for your relocation.

Whether you're moving a small apartment, a large family home or an office, we'll help ensure the right vehicle arrives on moving day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size removal truck I need?

The best way is to calculate your furniture volume. Our free Moving Volume Calculator estimates the cubic metres of your move and recommends an appropriate truck size.

Can one truck move a four-bedroom house?

Many four-bedroom homes can be completed with one large removal truck, although larger properties or homes with significant garage contents may require additional capacity.

Does truck size affect the price?

Yes. Truck size influences loading capacity, crew requirements and overall moving efficiency. Using the right truck helps avoid unnecessary trips and additional labour.

Can you inspect my home before quoting?

Yes. For larger or more complex relocations, we can arrange an onsite assessment or review your inventory to recommend the most suitable truck.

What if I have more furniture than expected?

Our experienced team works hard to ensure estimates are accurate. If additional items are added after quoting, we'll discuss the best solution before moving day.

Can apartments require larger trucks?

Sometimes. Apartments often involve lifts, loading docks or long carrying distances. While the furniture volume may be smaller, access conditions can influence the truck and crew recommendations.

Ready to Plan Your Move?

Whether you're moving a one-bedroom apartment, a family home or a commercial office, choosing the right truck size is essential for an efficient relocation.

Use our free Moving Volume Calculator or contact our experienced team for personalised advice and an obligation-free quote.

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