Space + payload
We compare packed cubic volume with indicative payload instead of assuming “it fits” because the dimensions work.
Independent UK moving planner
Plan the space, van, storage and boxes for your move.
Build one household inventory and get connected estimates for removals volume, load weight, van size, number of trips, self-storage space and packing boxes — without handing your details to a quote site.
140+ household itemsNo sign-upShareable quote briefTransparent assumptions
Example plan3-bedroom house move
One inventory → five answersPACKED VOLUME~25 m³
LUTON PLAN~2 loads
PRACTICAL STORAGE150–200 sq ft
BOX STARTING POINT~58 boxes
Start with your question
Four common moving decisions, one connected model.
What size storage unit?Estimate self-storage space from your property or actual inventory.Storage calculator →How big is my move?Get a quick m³ estimate, then refine it item by item.Removals calculator →How many boxes?Estimate a mixed box pack, tape and protective wrap.Box calculator →What size van?Compare space and indicative payload, not just bedrooms.Van planner →
Search Console priority
Open storage calculator →Storage Unit Size Calculator UK
Compare tight, practical and regular-access unit sizes from your actual belongings, then enter prices from any provider.
Full move-planning workspace
Build your moving inventory once
Start with a typical property or add items manually. Your result updates instantly and stays on this device unless you create a share link.
Why MoveSize is different
Volume alone can give the wrong answer.
A van can have enough cubic space and still be too heavy to load legally. MoveSize checks both space and an indicative payload, then shows how the same belongings translate into storage and packing requirements.
Detailed inventory, quickly
Search more than 140 household items, use a property preset, add exact custom dimensions and adjust quantities without starting over.
One inventory, multiple decisions
No re-entering your move into separate van, storage and box calculators.
Designed for a real decision
See the trade-off, not just a single answer.
A good moving plan should show what changes if you hire a smaller van, dismantle furniture or need frequent access to storage. MoveSize keeps those decisions connected instead of forcing you through separate calculators.
Compare every van
See estimated trips for each common UK van class, with the recommended one-load option highlighted.
See the limiting factor
Separate space and payload utilisation makes it clear whether bulky furniture or dense possessions are driving the result.
Carry the same inventory forward
Your storage and packing estimates update from exactly the same belongings, so the numbers remain internally consistent.
Typical UK van capacity guide
Use these as planning figures only. Hire fleets differ substantially, especially payload.
| Van class | Planning volume | Indicative payload | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact / small | ~3.4 m³ | ~650 kg | Small room / bulky-item run |
| Medium | ~5.5 m³ | ~800 kg | Room move / student move |
| Large panel van | ~11.3 m³ | ~1,250 kg | Often a 1-bed flat |
| Extra-large panel van | ~14 m³ | ~1,200 kg | Often a 2-bed flat / small house |
| 3.5t Luton | ~17.3 m³ | ~1,050 kg | Often a 2–3 bed move |
Current UK hire-fleet guides publish large vans around 11.3 m³, extra-large panel vans around 14 m³ and Lutons around 17–19 m³, with 3.5t Luton payloads commonly around 800–1,200 kg. See our methodology.
Moving calculator FAQs
How accurate is a moving volume calculator?
It is a planning estimate, not a loading guarantee. Furniture shapes, dismantling, packing quality and unused gaps all change the real volume. MoveSize deliberately applies a packing allowance and lets you change it.
Why does payload matter?
Vehicle load limits are based on weight as well as physical space. Dense items such as books, tools and appliances can make payload the limiting factor before the van looks full.
Can I use MoveSize to get removal quotes?
Yes. Build the inventory, use the share-link button and send the same list to more than one removal firm. The mover should still verify access, special items and loading requirements.
Does MoveSize store my inventory?
Your current inventory is stored locally in your browser for convenience. MoveSize does not require an account or server-side inventory database.
Worked examples
Start from a familiar moving scenario
Browse property-size, van-volume, storage-unit, box-count and bulky-item examples, then refine the numbers with your actual inventory.