How Many Boxes Do You Need for a 1-Bedroom Apartment? – Packing Guide

One of the most common questions people ask before moving is:

“How many boxes do I need for a 1-bedroom apartment?”

Buying too few boxes leads to last-minute panic. Buying too many wastes money and space. The right estimate helps you stay organized, reduce moving costs, and pack efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• Average box count for a 1-bedroom apartment
• Box estimates by room
• Factors that increase or reduce box needs
• Tips to pack smarter and save money

How Many Boxes Do You Need for a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

Most 1-bedroom apartments require 30 to 60 moving boxes, depending on lifestyle and amount of belongings.

Typical Box Estimate

The average renter needs around 40–45 boxes for a standard 1-bedroom apartment.

Box Breakdown by Room

Here’s a realistic room-by-room breakdown:

Bedroom

• Clothes
• Shoes
• Bedding
• Accessories

Estimated boxes: 10–15

• Medium boxes for clothing

• Small boxes for shoes & accessories

Living Room

• Books
• Electronics
• Decor
• Lamps
• Small furniture items

Estimated boxes: 8–12

• Medium & large boxes

• Specialty box for TV (optional)

Kitchen

• Dishes
• Glassware
• Pantry items
• Small appliances

Estimated boxes: 8–12

• Small & medium boxes

• Dish-pack boxes recommended

Bathroom

• Toiletries
• Towels
• Cleaning supplies

Estimated boxes: 2–4

• Small boxes work best

Closet / Storage / Misc.

• Seasonal items
• Linens
• Cleaning tools

Estimated boxes: 3–6

Total Average:

30–60 boxes, depending on storage and habits

Box Sizes You’ll Need

A balanced mix of box sizes is key.

Recommended Box Mix

Specialty boxes may include:

• Dish packs
• Wardrobe boxes
• TV or mirror boxes

Factors That Affect Box Count

Lifestyle & Habits

Minimalists need fewer boxes. Collectors, hobbyists, or home cooks need more.

Apartment Size

A large 1-bedroom (800–1,000 sq ft) will require more boxes than a compact unit.

Storage Areas

Extra closets, storage units, or garages add box needs quickly.

Furniture Ownership

More furniture = more items to disassemble and pack.

DIY Packing vs Professional Packing

DIY Packing

✔ Lower cost

✔ Full control

✘ Time-consuming

✘ Risk of underestimating boxes

Professional Packing

✔ Accurate box count

✔ Faster packing

✔ Better protection

Van Lines Move often recommends professional packing for renters short on time or moving long distance.

How Much Do Boxes Cost?

Average moving box costs:

• Small box: $1–$2
• Medium box: $2–$4
• Large box: $3–$6
• Specialty box: $8–$15

Total box cost for a 1-bedroom apartment usually ranges from $60 to $150.

Ways to Reduce the Number of Boxes

✔ Declutter before packing

✔ Donate unused items

✔ Use suitcases and laundry baskets

✔ Pack efficiently (no half-empty boxes)

✔ Reuse original packaging when possible

Fewer boxes = lower moving cost.

How Box Count Affects Moving Costs?

More boxes mean:

• More labor time
• More truck space
• Higher moving costs

Reducing box count can save hundreds of dollars on moving day — especially for long-distance moves.

Quick Estimation Rule

A simple rule of thumb:

10 boxes per room

For a 1-bedroom apartment (living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom):

40 boxes is a safe estimate.

Final Thoughts

Most people moving from a 1-bedroom apartment will need 30 to 60 boxes, with 40–45 boxes being the sweet spot for average households. Planning ahead, choosing the right box sizes, and decluttering early will make your move smoother and more affordable.

If you want help estimating your packing needs or coordinating your move, Van Lines Move can guide you from packing to delivery with trusted professionals.