How Many Boxes Do You Actually Need?
A common mistake when moving is underestimating box needs, then making a last-minute run the night before the truck arrives. Here is a rough starting point by room. Your own count will depend on how much you own.
Room-by-Room Breakdown
Kitchen: 8-15 medium boxes (dishes, glasses, small appliances), 3-5 large boxes (pots, pans, bulk items), and 2-3 specialty dish-pack boxes with dividers.
Bedroom: 3-5 medium boxes per person (clothing, shoes, personal items), 2-3 large boxes (bedding, pillows), plus wardrobe boxes if you have suits or dresses you don't want to fold.
Living Room: 5-8 medium boxes (books are heavy, use small boxes!), 2-4 large boxes (décor, throw blankets, games), plus specialty boxes for artwork or electronics.
Bathroom: 2-3 small boxes per bathroom. Toiletries are heavier than they look.
Garage/Storage: Highly variable. Expect 5-15 boxes depending on accumulation level.
Home Office: 3-5 small boxes (files, supplies), 1-2 medium (printer, equipment).
Why Used Boxes Work for Moving
Moving boxes have a short working life. You use them for a day or two, and then they sit in your garage. That makes moving a natural fit for used boxes.
Sound Grade B and C boxes are often fine for moving, because you are going to tape them, stack them, and scuff them anyway. Use your strongest boxes for the heaviest loads, and skip anything soft or damp.
After your move, pass the boxes on to someone else or recycle them. Corrugated cardboard is widely recycled. If you have a large quantity in good condition, you can ask a partner supplier whether there is interest.
Pro Tips
- Get a few extras. Running short mid-move is far worse than having spares.
- Get a size mix. Most people buy too many large boxes. Heavy items such as books, canned goods, and tools should go in small boxes.
- Label everything. Not just the room. List the two or three main items inside so unpacking goes faster.
- Plan early. Request a quote well before your move, since availability of used moving boxes in the Portland metro area depends on partner suppliers.