How Long Is a Moving Truck and Which One Do You Need?

Size Matters – How Long Is a Moving Truck?

A moving truck can be anywhere from about 10 to 26 feet long. Why does this matter? Well, you don’t want to end up with a truck that’s too small – it’s a recipe for relocation stress. Cross-country movers will know the exact size you need, no matter if it’s a small long-distance move or you’re trying to pack a whole house.

Relocating Through the Decades – The History of the Moving Truck

Today, there are around 50,000 relocation trucks in the US alone. But before we get into how they look now, let’s take a trip down memory lane, back to when these vans weren’t just a click away.

Exactly a Hundred Years Ago, Ford TT Became the Industry Standard

Fast forward to the 1920s, and the industry got a modern makeover with the introduction of the first motorized four-wheelers, namely the Ford TT. These beasts of burden revolutionized the game, offering more speed and efficiency than their horse-drawn predecessors.

As the decades rolled on, these vehicles evolved with the times, becoming bigger, more powerful, and equipped with all the bells and whistles needed for a smooth cross-country move. Now, they even come climate-controlled, which might be a far cry from their humble beginnings, but the purpose is still the same – helping you and belongings get from point A to point B with ease.

A Quick Look at the Characteristics of the Different Moving Truck Sizes

Compared to the 1960s, people are relocating far less – the number is cut in about half, to be more exact. However, you’ll still spot plenty of moving trucks on the road, especially during summer, between the beginning of May and Labor Day.

You’ve probably noticed that these vans come in different sizes, much like the small, medium, and large options at your favorite coffee place. Each size has its own charm and purpose, suited for different types of moves. Here’s a breakdown.

Why Is It Important to Get the Right Size of the Moving Truck?

Getting the right size of the relocation van is the golden ticket to a smooth moving day. Loading and unloading will be faster and more efficient, and you won’t have to play Tetris with belongings, trying to fit everything into a space that’s too small. Plus, you’ll avoid the headache of making multiple trips, saving you both time and energy.

Your Wallet Will Thank You Later

It’s not just about time – getting the right-sized truck can also save you money in the long run. Sure, looking at the relocation budget, it might be tempting to get a smaller van and save on costs. However, you could end up making multiple trips, and these costs can quickly pile up.

On the other hand, renting one that’s too big means you’re paying for space you won’t be using. All in all, this needs to be a smart, informed decision – so, let’s help you make it with some relocation tips and tricks.

Here’s How to Choose the Right Truck Length for a Cross-Country Move

If you’re feeling like the only person who’s scratching their head about this, don’t worry – failing to choose the right size of the van is actually a common relocation mistake. Luckily, there are plenty of hacks to help you nail it. With them under your belt, you’ll be cruising down the highway in no time!

Create an Inventory to Get a Clearer Picture of What You’re Working With

Creating a home inventory is half the battle won. This means listing everything you plan to take with you, from furniture to boxes of clothes and kitchenware. A relocation inventory will not only help you choose the right truck size but also give you a clearer picture of what you own and what you can leave behind.

A Relocation Calculator Is a Pretty Handy Tool for This

You can upload the inventory into a relocation calculator, a nifty tool that’s available online. There are actually plenty of different apps and tools, so you can even use multiple to really nail it down. Plus, it’s a fun way to take some of the stress out of the whole ordeal – it turns out math can be helpful in the real world, after all. Who would’ve known?

The Right Long-Distance Moving Company Will Be Able to Tell You Exactly What You Need

Hiring long-distance movers is truly like having a team of superheroes swoop in to save the day. One of the biggest perks is that they come with their own truck, so you don’t have to worry about picking the right size. They know exactly what you need based on their experience, paving the way for a completely stress-free move.

Another fantastic benefit of taking this route is the packing services. You can opt for the complete package where they handle most, if not all, of the stuff. Just imagine – you sitting back while the pros wrap up the kitchenware, secure furniture, and neatly pack everything into the van.

They’ve Even Got a Special Truck for a Prized Ride

If a four-wheeler is your pride and joy, you’ll be glad to know that some businesses, such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving, can also bring it along for the journey. That’s right, you can have a relocation and car shipping company all rolled into one.

Professional auto transport uses special carriers, either open or enclosed, specifically designed for transporting vehicles. The four-wheeler will be in good hands, getting to the new home safe and sound. It’s like having the cake and eating it, too – these movers can take care of everything, including vehicles, without any extra hassle involved.

Not Sure if Belongings Will Fit But Don’t Want a Bigger Truck? Decluttering Can Be the Saving Grace

So, you’re staring at the mountain of stuff and wondering how on earth will it all fit. The relocation and auto transport company recommended a certain size, but you’re convinced you can go smaller.

Well, you can try, and the secret weapon here is decluttering. It’s time to channel the inner minimalist and make those tough decisions about what still sparks joy and what you need to get rid of. Here’s how to do it:

• Tackle one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed,
• Aim to declutter a certain number of items each day to stay on track,
• Use three boxes for sorting items quickly and efficiently, separating them to keep, donate, and throw away,
• If you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s time to let it go,
• As you decide what to keep, organize those items to make packing more efficient later,
• Don’t forget to go through old papers and files, shredding what you don’t need and backing up the important files,
• Get the whole family involved in the decluttering process to make it faster and more fun.

For the Smoothest Relocation Yet, Here Are a Few Mistakes You Should Steer Clear Of

To really make the whole ordeal a success story, let’s talk about a few common pitfalls to avoid. First things first, overpacking both the truck and the boxes is a big no-no. You can end up with a bunch of broken items, which is not exactly ideal when you’re looking for a fresh start in another city.

Another mistake is hiring the first company you find without doing the research. Not all of them are created equal, and there are actually many relocation scammers out there. So, take the time to check reviews and ask for recommendations.

Don’t Wait Too Long to Book the Services – The Prices Can Go up in the Blink of an Eye

Timing is everything when booking long-distance moving services. If you wait too long, prices can skyrocket, especially during peak seasons like summer. Booking early not only secures preferred dates but also locks in better rates. It’s like snagging a good deal on a flight – the earlier you book, the more you save.

Wrap It Up – The Perfect Truck Is Waiting for Your Belongings

Relocating can feel like trying to fit an elephant into a Mini Cooper. However, with the right truck size, it’s more like a well-choreographed dance. From avoiding the classic overpacking mistake to booking the services early to dodge price hikes, you know precisely how to make the move as smooth as possible.

You also know just how important expert movers such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving are in the whole equation. With our comprehensive services, including car shipping and even 30 days of free storage, we’ve got everything covered. Don’t stress about the details – give us a call. The perfect moving truck (and team) awaits!