Choosing the Right Truck Size for Your Move in Australia

As a homeowner, it’s easy to assume that you have a fair grasp of what your possessions are, how many items you have, and the amount of space you’ll need in a truck to transport everything to your new neighbourhood safely.
However, this assumption could be false. It’s easy to miscalculate the size of the truck you need to move your items to a new address without a hitch. Without the proper calculation of truck dimensions for your Australia move, you could end up paying for more trips than expected or end up with damaged goods.
This is why selecting the right truck size is a critical step in ensuring a smooth and efficient move, whether you’re relocating to a new neighbourhood within the same city or to a totally different state.
With a wide range of truck sizes in Australia, understanding truck dimensions and capacities can help you avoid common pitfalls like running out of space or paying for more than you need. This guide is designed to simplify the process, so choosing the perfect truck size as you prepare for your move gets easier.
Why Choosing the Right Truck Size Matters
The size of the truck you choose can make or break the success of your move. Opting for the wrong truck size—whether too large or too small—can lead to unnecessary complications.
What Happens If You Hire the Wrong Truck Size?
Selecting the appropriate truck size for a move is a critical decision that can significantly impact the efficiency and success of the relocation process. Hiring a truck that does not match your needs can lead to several complications, including increased costs and logistical challenges.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when determining the right truck size for your needs.
Not Defining Your Moving Requirements
One of the most significant mistakes is failing to clearly define your moving needs beforehand.
Knowing exactly what you will transport—whether it’s furniture, appliances, exercise equipment, or a mix of everything—is essential. Without this clarity, you may end up with a truck that does not accommodate your specific requirements, leading to unnecessary stress during your move.
Underestimating Space Concerns
Many people underestimate the amount of truck space they need for a move. This often results in hiring a truck that’s too small or too large.
- Hiring a Truck That’s Too Small: When you opt for a truck that’s too small, you won’t only realise that not all of your belongings fit in the vehicle but you may also need to make multiple trips. This increases your transportation costs and consumes more time and energy, making the moving process more stressful. Additionally, cramming items into a smaller space can risk damage to your belongings, particularly fragile items that may not be secured properly during transit.
- Hiring a Truck That’s Too Large: On the other hand, selecting a truck that is too large can also present its own set of challenges. While it may seem convenient to have extra space, driving and manoeuvring a larger vehicle can be cumbersome, especially in urban areas with narrow streets. This can lead to potential accidents or damage to property during loading and unloading. Furthermore, hiring a larger truck often incurs higher rental costs and fuel expenses, and this can strain your moving budget unnecessarily.
Ignoring Weight Capacity
Another common mistake is neglecting to consider the weight capacity of the truck. Each truck has a maximum payload limit that must not be exceeded.
Overloading can lead to safety hazards, potential damage to the vehicle, and increased wear and tear on tires and suspension systems. Try to assess the weight of your belongings accurately before making a decision.
Benefits of Choosing the Right-Sized Truck
On the opposite end of the spectrum, you get the following advantages if you select the right truck size for your move:
- Cost Savings: Choosing a truck that perfectly matches your requirements helps minimise rental and other related expenses.
- Time Efficiency: A single trip saves time and energy, so you can focus on settling into your new home.
- Better Safety: Properly packed items in a well-sized removalist truck reduce the chances of breakage or accidents on the road.
Hiring a removal truck for a small apartment or a larger relocation truck for a family home entails understanding truck sizes and dimensions to ensure you’re prepared for a hassle-free moving day.
Key Factors to Consider Before Selecting a Truck Size
Choosing the right truck size involves more than just guessing how much space you’ll need. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Volume of Your Belongings
Estimate how much you need to transport. A small studio might fit into a 3-tonne truck, while a 5-bedroom house may require an 8-tonne truck. Use online truck volume calculators to get a rough estimate.
Truck Dimensions and Accessibility
Check the dimensions of the truck you’re hiring to ensure it fits through narrow driveways or parking spaces at your pickup and delivery locations.
In Australia, popular truck sizes range from small 2-tonne vans to larger 10-tonne trucks with dimensions of up to 7.5 metres in length.
Types of Items Being Moved
Do you have fragile or bulky items or things that require special handling during your move?
Furniture, large appliances, or delicate items may need extra space or padding, so make sure to discuss these things with your removalist. Some relocation trucks come equipped with tail lifts for heavy items or straps for securing fragile loads.
Distance of the Move
For long-distance moves, choosing a larger truck to minimise trips can save time and fuel. Local moves, on the other hand, might allow for smaller trucks with multiple trips, if necessary.
Rental Duration and Budget
Consider how rental fees are calculated—most truck rental companies in Australia charge by the hour, day, or kilometre. Ensure the truck size you select aligns with your budget limits.
Weather and Road Conditions
For moves during rainy seasons or on unsealed roads, ensure the truck has adequate coverage to protect your belongings.
By carefully evaluating these factors, it’ll be easier to select a truck size that perfectly suits your move and avoid unnecessary stress on moving day.
Common Truck Sizes in Australia and Their Uses
Selecting the right truck size for your move is easier when you understand the typical options available in Australia. Different truck sizes are designed to suit specific moving needs, whether it’s a small apartment, a large family home, or a commercial relocation.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common truck sizes in Australia and their ideal uses:

Small Trucks (3-5 Tonnes)
- Best For: Small apartments or studio moves.
- Capacity: Typically fits the contents of a 1-2 bedroom home, including furniture and appliances.
- Features: Compact dimensions, easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces or urban areas.

Medium Trucks (6-10 Tonnes)
- Best For: 2-4 bedroom homes.
- Capacity: Ideal for families or individuals with moderate belongings, including large furniture pieces and boxes.
- Features: Perfect for suburban relocations, balancing space and cost-efficiency.

Large Trucks (9-16 Tonnes)
- Best For: 5+ bedroom homes or commercial relocations.
- Capacity: Designed for extra-large moves, capable of transporting everything from oversized furniture to entire office setups.
- Features: Equipped for heavy-duty moves with ample loading space and advanced packing solutions.an relocations, balancing space and cost-efficiency.
North Removals Truck Packages
North Removals offers flexible packages to cater to various moving needs. All trucks are fully insured, so you have peace of mind during your relocation.
Type of Move | Truck Size | Capacity | Extras | Package Rate (AUD) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Small/medium move | Large 4.5-tonne truck | Fits up to 2 bedrooms | Includes 2 removalists, no extra costs, 2-hour minimum + travel time | 150 per hour |
Medium-large move | Large 10-tonne truck | Fits up to 4 bedrooms | Includes 3 removalists, no extra costs, 3-hour minimum + travel time | 220 per hour |
Extra-large move | Large 16-tonne truck | Fits 5 to 8-bedroom homes | Includes 3 removalists, no extra costs | Pricing available upon request |
What Happens When You Miscalculate the Truck Size for Your Move?
Let’s take a look at the experience of James (a cousin of one of our team members), who recently moved from a suburb in Brisbane to a new home in the Gold Coast. Planning his move, James decided to rent a 4.5-tonne truck, believing it would be sufficient based on his previous smaller moves. However, he underestimated the volume of his belongings, which included several large items like a dining table, a sectional sofa, and numerous boxes of books and kitchenware.
When the removalists arrived at James’s home, they quickly realised that the 4.5-tonne truck was inadequate for the job. After loading as much as they could, they had to inform James that a second trip would be necessary to transport the remaining items.
Breakdown of Costs
Initial Move: 4.5-Tonne Truck / 2 Removalists
- First Trip: 4 hours + 1 hour travel time at $150/hour = $750
- Second Trip: 3 hours + 1 hour travel time at $140/hour = $600
- Total Cost: $1,350
Cost With Proper Truck Size (10-Tonne Truck / 3 Removalists at $200/hour)
- One Trip: 5 hours + 1 hour travel time = $1,200
Extra Cost Incurred by Misjudging Truck Size: $150
In addition to the financial implications, James also faced issues with time. He wasn’t able to check early on about the street they were going to use to access his new place. Turns out, the road was closed on his moving date and the removalists had to take a circuitous alternate route to James’ new home, adding more time to the duration of the move.
So, make sure to cover all the bases besides choosing the right moving truck to avoid unpleasant surprises come moving day.
How to Estimate the Right Truck Size for Your Move
Choosing the correct truck size starts with understanding how much you need to move. By estimating your load accurately, you can avoid overpaying for unused space or scrambling for additional trips due to insufficient capacity.
Create a Moving Inventory List
Preparing a moving house checklist is an essential step in the moving process that helps streamline logistics and ensures nothing is overlooked.
A good checklist not only helps you keep track of your belongings but also aids in determining the appropriate truck size required for your move. This organised approach can significantly reduce stress and enhance the efficiency of your relocation.
Here’s a basic moving inventory list to get you started:
- Furniture
- Sofas
- Beds (including mattresses)
- Tables (dining, coffee)
- Chairs
- Dressers
- Appliances
- Refrigerator
- Washing machine
- Dryer
- Microwave
- Oven
- Boxes
- Kitchen items (dishes, utensils)
- Clothing
- Books
- Decorations
- Miscellaneous items
A comprehensive moving inventory checklist should include the following details:
- Item Description: Clearly describe each item (e.g., “3-seater sofa” or “queen-size bed”).
- Quantity: Note how many of each item you have.
- Condition: Assess the condition of each item (e.g., new, good, damaged).
- Room Location: Specify which room each item belongs to for easier loading.
- Value: Estimate the value of each item for insurance purposes.
- Special Handling Instructions: Indicate if any items require special care (e.g., fragile items).
- Notes: Include any additional notes that may be relevant for the removalists or yourself.
By preparing this checklist ahead of time, you can avoid last-minute surprises and ensure that all your belongings are accounted for during the move

Use North Removals’ Volume and Cost Calculator
Simplify your planning process by using the North Removals Moving Cost & Truck Size Calculator.
This tool provides a quick and accurate estimate of the right truck size and associated costs, tailored to your specific move.
Tips for an Efficient Moving Day
An efficient moving day can save you time, reduce stress, and even cut down costs. By planning ahead and optimising your approach, you can make the most of your hired truck and ensure a smooth relocation.
Below are practical tips to help you achieve this:
Pack Properly to Maximise Truck Space
- Disassemble large furniture like bed frames and dining tables to free up space.
- Use uniform-sized boxes for easier stacking, and fill every inch of box space to prevent shifting.
- Wrap fragile items in protective padding to minimise damage during transit.
Label Boxes Clearly for Easy Unloading
- Use a simple labelling system (e.g., “Kitchen,” “Bedroom 1,” or “Fragile”) to guide removalists and save time when unpacking.
- Place labels on the sides of boxes, not the tops, so they’re visible even when stacked.
Arrange Heavy Items at the Bottom for Balance
- Load the heaviest items first, placing them at the bottom of the truck to create a stable base.
- Distribute weight evenly across the truck to prevent tipping during transit.
If packing feels overwhelming, let North Removals take the hassle out of the process.
Our professional packing services can save you hours of work while ensuring your belongings are securely prepared for the move.
Need to calculate how many boxes or materials you’ll need?
Use the North Removals Packing Calculator for accurate estimates and personalised recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When planning a move anywhere in Australia, selecting the right truck size is essential for a smooth and efficient relocation.
To assist you in making an informed decision, here are some frequently asked questions that address common concerns and considerations when hiring a truck.
What if I choose a truck that’s too small?
If your truck is too small, you may need to make multiple trips or leave items behind. This will lead to delays and additional costs. To avoid this scenario, create a detailed inventory of your belongings and consult with your removalist to choose the right size truck for your needs.
Are moving companies flexible with truck upgrades?
Many companies, including North Removals, allow upgrades if larger trucks are available. However, availability isn’t guaranteed, especially during peak moving seasons, so it’s best to book the appropriate truck size early.
How far in advance should I book a moving truck?
For the best availability, book your moving truck at least 2-4 weeks in advance. If you’re moving during busy periods like holidays or end-of-lease dates, consider booking even earlier.
What is included in the truck hire price?
North Removals includes services like professional removalists, insurance, and no hidden costs in terms of pricing. Be sure to confirm the details with your chosen company.
What additional costs should I consider when renting a truck?
In addition to the base rental fee, consider extra costs such as fuel, insurance, tolls, and mileage overages. Many companies offer free kilometres up to a certain limit, after which additional charges may apply. Always clarify these details with your rental provider before finalising your booking.
How do I prepare furniture for a move?
Disassemble furniture, wrap fragile items with bubble wrap, and use furniture pads to prevent scratches. Securely tape drawers and doors to avoid movement during transport.
Contact North Removals – For a Hassle-Free Moving Experience
Ready to make your move stress-free?
Contact North Removals today for expert advice, professional services, and personalised moving quotes tailored to your needs.
With North Removals, you can trust that your move will be handled with care, efficiency, and attention to detail. Let us help you choose the right truck size and services for a seamless transition to your new home.
Visit North Removals or get in touch with our team to get started with your relocation planning.
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