If you’re moving in Toronto, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right rental truck or van. With narrow city streets, limited parking, and a wide range of housing sizes, selecting the right size vehicle can be the difference between a seamless move and a stressful one.
Too small, and you’ll be making multiple trips. Too big, and you’ll be fighting for parking on busy roads or paying for unused space. Here’s how to choose the perfect moving truck for your situation.
Picking the Perfect Moving Truck for Your Toronto Move
Every move is unique, but the right moving truck in Toronto depends on how much you’re transporting, the type of building you’re moving into or out of, and how far you’re going. Here’s how to break it down:
When to Choose a Cargo Van
A cargo van is the smallest rental option available and ideal for tight urban areas like downtown Toronto. Choose this if:
- You’re moving out of a bachelor or small 1-bedroom apartment
- You’re a student relocating to or from campus housing
- You only have a few pieces of furniture and fewer than 30 boxes
- You’ll be navigating tight parking or low-clearance garages
Cargo vans are particularly useful in Toronto’s core neighbourhoods like Queen West, The Annex, or Kensington Market, where space is limited, and a 20-foot truck could cause a traffic jam.
They’re also ideal for same-day moves, where you might just need to relocate a handful of belongings quickly without the hassle of a larger vehicle. If you’re working with professional movers, a van can make loading faster and easier for everyone involved.
Best for Condo or Apartment Moves: 16–20 ft Trucks
If you’re moving out of a mid-sized apartment or condo, a 16- to 20-foot moving truck is often the best balance of size and maneuverability. This size works well for:
- 1–2 bedroom units with furniture and appliances
- Moves that involve elevators or loading docks in high-rise buildings
- Neighbourhoods like Yonge and Eglinton or Liberty Village, where buildings are modern, but streets can still be busy
These trucks usually hold beds, couches, dining tables, dressers, and up to 100 boxes. They’re big enough for a full apartment but still manageable for residential driving in most Toronto neighbourhoods.
If you’re moving in or out of a condo with underground loading access, check the clearance requirements before choosing this truck size. Many high-rises require advance booking for elevators, and planning your vehicle accordingly helps ensure a smooth move.
Full Home or Long-Distance Moves: 22–26 ft Trucks
For larger homes or multi-family relocations, you’ll want a truck that can handle it all in one trip. A 22- to 26-foot truck is ideal for:
- 3–4 bedroom homes with multiple large furniture items
- Long-distance moves where you can’t afford to make a second trip
- Moves from suburban Toronto areas like Scarborough, Etobicoke, or North York
These trucks offer high clearance and large interior volume for stacking, securing, and separating delicate items. If you’re moving across the city or into a nearby town, this size gives you the space to move everything efficiently.
They’re also more fuel-efficient than people expect, thanks to updated engines and transmission systems, making them a solid choice even for moves that span the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Tips for Estimating the Right Size
If you’re still not sure what truck size you need, use these moving tips to help you estimate:
- Count your boxes: A small apartment may have 20–40 boxes, while a home could have 100 or more.
- Measure large furniture: Beds, dressers, sofas, and appliances take up more space than you think.
- Consider disassembly: Some large items can be taken apart to fit more compactly.
- Use an online truck size calculator: Many rental companies offer tools that estimate truck size based on your inventory.
- Err on the side of caution: It’s almost always better to have a little extra room than to run out mid-move.
If you’re hiring movers, ask them for an estimate; they often know exactly how much space your list of items will require. And if you’re doing it yourself, pack up as much as you can in advance so you can visualize the volume of items to be moved.
Extra Factors to Consider When Renting a Truck in Toronto
Toronto is a dense, fast-moving city, and moving day isn’t always easy. Here are a few local tips for considering a truck rental in Toronto:
- Time of day matters: Avoid rush hours for easier navigation and faster travel.
- Parking permits: You may need a temporary permit to park your truck on certain residential streets.
- Loading dock access: Some buildings require advance notice to use loading bays or service elevators.
- One-way rentals: If you’re moving out of town, ask about drop-off options at your destination.
Choosing a local provider that understands Toronto’s layout and by-laws can help you avoid last-minute surprises.
Not Sure Which Size You Need? We Can Help.
Ventures Car and Truck Rental offers a full range of moving trucks in Toronto, from compact cargo vans to full-size box trucks ready for long hauls. Our experienced team can walk you through your move, help estimate your load, and suggest the right truck rental in Toronto for your needs.
Whether you’re moving across the street in downtown Toronto or across the province, we make it easy with flexible truck rental options, responsive service, and expert moving tips.
Reach out to Ventures Car Rentals today at (905) 800-0150, email us at info@venturescarrentals.com, or click here to get in touch online.
