Choosing the Right-Sized Moving Truck for Your Moves

When it comes to moving house, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right-sized moving truck. At Norm Eacott Removals, we’ve helped thousands of Australians relocate, whether it’s a cosy Sydney apartment, a suburban townhouse with trusted removalists in Central Coast, or a large family home in Newcastle. From experience, we know that picking the wrong vehicle size can turn what should be an exciting, fresh-start day into a stressful and expensive ordeal.

Choosing the right truck isn’t just about convenience. It can save you time, reduce moving costs, protect your belongings, and make the whole experience smoother and far less stressful. In Australia, where homes range from tight inner-city terraces to spacious regional properties, getting this decision right is crucial.

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Why Vehicle Size Matters for Your Move

The size of your moving vehicle plays a pivotal role in how efficiently your move will go. It affects three main areas: cost, safety, and accessibility.

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Avoiding Multiple Trips and Extra Costs

One of the most common mistakes we see is underestimating the amount of space needed. A truck that’s too small may mean multiple trips, which can quickly increase fuel costs, driver time, and even removalist charges.

• In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, multiple trips can also mean more traffic stress and longer unloading times.

• In states like NSW and Victoria, repeated trips on long-distance moves can add significantly to fuel and toll costs.

• Planning for the correct vehicle size reduces the chance of delays, making your move more efficient.

Example: Moving a 3-bedroom home with a 12 m³ van often means two trips, whereas a 25 m³ truck could handle everything in one go, saving both time and money.

Tip: When in doubt, slightly overestimate the size you need—it’s better to have a bit of extra space than to cram everything and risk multiple trips.

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Protecting Furniture and Fragile Items with Proper Space

Cramped vehicles increase the risk of scratches, dents, and broken items. Proper truck sizing ensures that everything, from sofas to delicate artwork, fits safely.

• Adequate space allows for protective padding, blankets, and tie-downs.
• Too much empty space can be risky if items aren’t secured; they may shift, topple, or get damaged during transit.

Tip: Disassemble large items where possible, like beds or tables, to maximise space and reduce the risk of damage.

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Balancing Vehicle Size with Parking and Access Restrictions

Bigger trucks aren’t always better. In inner-city suburbs of Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, narrow streets, tight driveways, and apartment complexes can make parking a challenge.

• Some councils require temporary parking permits for oversized vehicles. Failing to organise this can lead to fines or delays.

• For regional or rural moves, larger trucks are generally easier to manage, but in suburban streets or tight urban lanes, a smaller truck or van is often a safer choice.

Tip: Measure driveway widths, check for low-hanging trees, and consider temporary unloading zones before booking your truck.

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How to Estimate the Vehicle Size You’ll Need

Estimating the right truck size starts with understanding the volume of your move and the types of items you have.

Matching Vehicle Sizes to Home Types

1-Bedroom Apartment or Studio

• Typically requires a small van or 10–12 m³ truck.

• Suitable for a bed, a sofa, a few chairs, small appliances, and boxes.

2-Bedroom House

• A medium-sized truck (15–20 m³) is ideal.

• Can comfortably fit bedroom furniture, a dining set, a lounge, a washing machine, and a moderate number of boxes.

3-Bedroom or Larger Homes

• Often requires a large truck (25 m³ or more), especially if moving long-distance or interstate.

• Includes multiple beds, lounge sets, dining furniture, appliances, and a significant number of boxes and storage items.

• Long-distance moves also require careful planning to avoid overloading and to comply with vehicle weight limits.

Tip: Write down an inventory of all rooms and major items. This will make it easier for your removalist to provide an accurate vehicle recommendation.

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Factoring in Bulky Items Like Appliances and Outdoor Furniture

Some items take up more space than you might expect:

• Large appliances: fridges, washing machines, dryers, ovens

• Outdoor items: BBQs, garden furniture, trampolines, bikes

• Bulky or awkward furniture: wardrobes, sectional lounges, pool tables

Tip: Disassemble where possible, use blankets for padding, and stack heavier items at the bottom. Norm Eacott Removals can advise on disassembly and packing strategies for these bulky items to save space and prevent damage.

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Considering Storage Boxes, Packing Materials, and Odd-Shaped Items

Boxes, packing materials, and oddly shaped items can fill a moving truck faster than anticipated:

• Packing materials like bubble wrap, blankets, and foam sheets take up room but protect fragile items.

• Odd-shaped items such as surfboards, gym equipment, musical instruments, or lamps need extra planning for safe loading.

Tip: Overestimate slightly when calculating your truck size. Leave enough room for padding and secure placement, your items will thank you.

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Tips for Making the Right Choice on Moving Day

Even with careful planning, a few practical steps on moving day can make all the difference.

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When to Choose a Van, a Small Truck, or a Large Truck

• Van: Ideal for studio apartments or 1-bedroom flats with minimal furniture. Perfect for inner-city moves where parking is tight.

• Small Truck: Suitable for 1–2 bedroom homes, apartments, or townhouses. Fits furniture, appliances, and boxes efficiently while maintaining access in narrow streets.

• Large Truck: Best for 3-bedroom+ homes or long-distance interstate moves. Handles high volumes and bulky items with ease.

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Asking Your Removalist for a Volume Estimate

Professional removalists can provide expert volume estimates. Providing a detailed inventory; number of bedrooms, furniture, appliances, and boxes. This will ensure your removalist recommends the optimal truck size.

Tip: Accurate estimates help avoid last-minute upgrades or extra trips, saving both money and stress.

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Planning for Access – Driveways, Narrow Streets, and Parking Permits

• Check driveway width, overhanging trees, and street access.

• In many inner-city suburbs, council permits may be required for trucks to park on public roads.

• Consider creating a temporary unloading zone close to your home.

Tip: Discuss access issues with your removalist in advance. At Norm Eacott Removals, we provide guidance on best parking practices and access planning to ensure your move runs smoothly.

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Choosing the right-sized moving truck is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when relocating. By considering your home size, the volume of belongings, bulky items, packing materials, and access limitations, you can make your move safe, efficient, and stress-free.

At Norm Eacott Removals, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. From inner-city apartments to large family homes, we’ll help you select the perfect vehicle for your move, saving you time, money, and unnecessary stress. After all, moving should be about starting a new chapter not dealing with avoidable headaches.

Ready to make your next move smooth and worry-free? Contact us today, and let’s find the right truck for your journey.