If you are moving out of a 1-bedroom apartment and wondering what size U-Haul to rent, you are not alone. Choosing the right truck can be tricky, especially when you are trying to avoid renting something too small or way too big. Luckily, U-Haul offers several truck sizes tailored for small to medium moves, and figuring out the right one for your situation is easier than you might think.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including how much space most 1-bedroom apartments require, which U-Haul trucks are best suited, what furniture you can fit, and a few helpful moving tips.
What Makes a 1-Bedroom Apartment Move Unique?
Most one-bedroom apartments fall somewhere between 450 and 800 square feet. They typically include:
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One bed (often queen or full)
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A small dresser or chest
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A sofa or loveseat
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A small dining table and chairs
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Nightstands, lamps, and boxes of kitchenware, clothes, or electronics
The goal is to find a moving truck that can comfortably fit all of this without being oversized. Overestimating can lead to unnecessary rental fees and more fuel usage. Underestimating means making multiple trips or cramming everything in too tightly, which can damage your belongings.
Best U-Haul Truck Size for 1 Bedroom Apartment
For most one-bedroom moves, U-Haul’s 10-foot and 15-foot trucks are the most commonly recommended options. Here is a closer look at both.
10-Foot U-Haul Truck
This is U-Haul’s smallest box truck, best suited for minimalist moves or furnished apartments where you are only bringing personal items and a few pieces of furniture.
Key details:
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Inside dimensions: Approximately 9 feet 11 inches long, 6 feet 4 inches wide, 6 feet 2 inches high
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Total volume: 402 cubic feet
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Weight capacity: Around 2,810 pounds
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Seating: 2 adults
Best for:
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Studio or small 1-bedroom apartments
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Single individuals with limited furniture
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Moves that do not involve large appliances or bulky couches
You can usually fit a mattress, a small sofa, a small table, several boxes, and a few small furniture pieces in the 10-foot truck. If your apartment is lightly furnished or you are only moving essentials, this is one of the best trucks for a small move.
15-Foot U-Haul Truck
If you have a bit more furniture or are moving with a partner, the 15-foot truck gives you more breathing room without being too large.
Key details:
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Inside dimensions: Approximately 15 feet long, 7 feet 8 inches wide, 7 feet 2 inches high
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Total volume: 764 cubic feet
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Weight capacity: Around 6,385 pounds
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Seating: 3 adults
Best for:
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Larger 1-bedroom apartments with full-size furniture
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Couples or roommates with shared items
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Anyone with appliances, multiple bookshelves, or extra boxes
The 15-foot truck features a “Mom’s Attic,” a small storage space located above the cab, ideal for storing fragile items and valuables. This space helps you separate boxes or delicate items from heavier furniture stacked in the main cargo area.
Comparing U-Haul Truck Options for a 1-Bedroom Move
| U-Haul Truck Size | Square Footage Moved | Best For | Max Load Capacity | Total Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Foot | Up to 500 sq. ft | Minimalist 1-bedroom or studio | ~2,810 lbs | 402 cu. ft |
| 15-Foot | 500 to 800 sq. ft | Average 1-bedroom with furniture | ~6,385 lbs | 764 cu. ft |
If your furniture includes a sectional couch, a queen-size bed, a dresser, kitchen items, and several boxes, the 15-foot truck will feel more comfortable. If you live a more simple life or are moving out of a furnished unit, the 10-foot option will likely be sufficient.
Common Furniture Items That Fit in a U-Haul 10-Foot vs. 15-Foot Truck
Here is a quick breakdown of what you can expect to fit based on your truck size.
10-Foot Truck
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Full or queen mattress and frame
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Dresser or nightstand
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Small couch or loveseat
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Coffee table
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10 to 15 medium boxes
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Kitchen items and lamps
15-Foot Truck
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Queen or king mattress and frame
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Dresser, nightstands, bookshelves
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Full-size sofa or sectional
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Small dining table with 2 to 4 chairs
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20 to 25 medium boxes
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Rugs, lamps, kitchen appliances
It is always a good idea to measure your largest items and compare them with the truck’s interior dimensions before making a final decision.
Other Things to Consider When Choosing a U-Haul Truck
1. Do You Plan to Tow a Car?
The 10-foot truck does not have towing capabilities. If you need to haul your car along with your belongings, you will need to go with at least the 15-foot option. This is something to think about early in the planning process.
2. How Far Are You Moving?
For a cross-town move, it is sometimes easier to rent a smaller truck and make a second trip if needed. For long-distance moves, it is better to rent slightly larger to avoid extra time and fuel costs.
3. Will You Be Driving Alone?
The 10-foot truck seats two people, while the 15-foot truck seats three. If you are moving with a friend or partner, this small detail may influence your decision, especially if you are trying to avoid taking multiple vehicles.
4. How Good Are You at Packing?
If you are efficient with space and good at stacking boxes, you might be able to get away with the smaller truck. If you are not confident in your Tetris skills, go with a little extra room. A tightly packed truck is not always a safe or smooth ride.
Packing Tips to Maximize Truck Space
No matter which truck you choose, smart packing makes a big difference. Here are some quick tips to help:
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Disassemble furniture like bed frames and tables
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Use uniform-sized boxes so they stack neatly
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Place heavier items on the bottom, lighter ones on top
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Use straps to secure large items against the wall
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Utilize soft items (pillows, towels) as padding for fragile goods
Taking the time to plan your packing approach can reduce stress and help prevent damage.
Final Recommendation: What Truck Should You Choose?
If your apartment is furnished modestly and you are moving solo, the 10-foot U-Haul is often the best truck for a small move. It is easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and can handle the basics.
If you are moving with a partner, have more furniture, or want extra space to make packing easier, go with the 15-foot truck. It remains manageable for first-time movers, offering the flexibility to pack without stress.
When in doubt, size up slightly. It is better to have a little extra room than to run out of space halfway through your move.
Ready to Choose the Right U-Haul Truck?
The right truck size can make your entire moving day easier. By thinking ahead and evaluating your furniture, boxes, and travel plans, you can confidently pick the best U-Haul truck for your 1-bedroom apartment.
Still not sure? Try our Moving Truck Size Estimator Tool to get a personalized truck recommendation based on your space and furniture. It takes the guesswork out of moving so you can plan with confidence.
