Step 3 of 10

Moving volume: how much space does your household need?

Household size is the quickest first estimate of volume, vehicle and helpers. Your inventory list makes it more precise.

More people, more things, but not twice as much

With every person, furniture, clothes and kitchen goods grow. But not evenly: a second adult adds less than the first, and children add toys and bulky items. The table shows typical ranges.

HouseholdApprox. volume (m³)Approx. boxesTypical vehicleTypical helpers
1 person, small flat10–1525–40Large van (about 12–15 m³)2
2 people20–2550–80Van with a second trip, or 3.5 t truck (about 18–22 m³)2–3
3 people25–3580–1103.5 t to 7.5 t truck3–4
4 people35–45110–1507.5 t truck (about 30–40 m³)4
5 people or a house45–60150–2007.5 t truck or two vehicles4–6

Approximate planning values, not measurements. Your furniture and household can differ considerably. Furniture density, cellar contents and dismantled furniture change the real volume. Rely on a written quote.

Why weight matters too

Every vehicle has a payload limit. Packed household goods weigh roughly a few hundred kilograms per cubic metre. A four-person household can therefore reach several tonnes in total. Heavy appliances and book boxes are also what most often causes injuries on stairs.

From estimate to plan

  • Start with the row for your household size.
  • Refine it with your inventory list, especially for large wardrobes and a full cellar.
  • Check floor and access at both addresses. They often decide the number of helpers more than the volume does.
In the moving planner

The moving planner turns your details into a volume range with a label showing how confident the estimate is. It also estimates the vehicle, crew and hours. We do not show prices online; you receive your personal quote within 24 hours.

Plan your move

Ask for free. Reply within 24 h.

Move, clear-out, household clearance or transport: we send your personal, non-binding quote within 24 hours – via WhatsApp or email.

Service area

Moving in Essen, the Ruhr area and all of NRW

Drive times from Karlstraße 32, 45329 Essen. Your town is missing? We move people all over Germany – just ask.