What Size Truck Do I Need for a House Move?

5 May 2026Moving Guide

Choosing the wrong vehicle size is the most common (and costly) house move mistake. This guide helps you pick the right truck for your home - from a studio flat to a 4-bedroom house.

Picking the wrong vehicle size can mean two costly outcomes: paying for a truck that's too large for your load, or needing a second trip because you underestimated. Here's a simple guide to getting it right.

Studio flat or single room: A 1-ton bakkie or mini van is usually sufficient for a single-room move - a bed, wardrobe, small couch, and boxes. Expect a rate of R350-R500 for a local move.

1-2 bedroom apartment: A 1.5-ton closed van or 1.5-ton bakkie handles most 2-bedroom contents. If you have large furniture (sectional couch, double-door fridge, queen bed), budget for a 1.5-2 ton vehicle.

3 bedroom house: A 4-ton truck is the standard recommendation. This handles a full dining room, 3 bedrooms, lounge furniture, fridge, washing machine, and packed boxes.

4+ bedroom house or large home: An 8-ton truck or two 4-ton trips is typically required. For high-value or fragile items (pianos, antiques), consider a specialist vehicle with blankets and strapping.

When in doubt, choose up. A slightly larger vehicle costs marginally more but eliminates the risk of a second trip - which would cost double.

QikTruck's online quote tool shows all available vehicle sizes with photos and capacity descriptions. You can select the right vehicle and get an instant price in under 2 minutes.

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