How to Pick the Right Size Storage Unit

Create a Storage Inventory List

The first step to choosing a storage unit is deciding what needs to go into storage. Create a detailed list of everything you plan to pack to estimate the floor space you need. If you’re storing a lot of furniture, measure each item’s footprint. 

Use the measurements to determine the minimum square footage required for your largest items. Add in the boxes, and you can make a reasonable estimate. Don’t forget that some items may stack on top of each other. For example, a pair of end tables often stack neatly with one table face down on the other. 
The moving truck you use can be an excellent way to gauge the size you need since many storage units are around the same size.

How Often Will You Need to Access Your Stuff?

How often you require access to your belongings may also impact the size you need. If you’re storing items short-term, you can fill every cubic inch of space up to the ceiling. You won’t need to build in an aisle or worry about getting a specific box out of storage. 
If using a storage unit as a long-term solution, you’ll likely move things around more regularly. You may need to find seasonal items or grab a piece of furniture to replace a broken item at home. In that case, you’ll want enough room to maneuver, pull boxes down, and reorganize. If you need regular access to your self-storage unit, renting a bigger one is best.

Think in Three-Dimensions to Estimate Space

When shopping for self-storage, consider the unit’s length, width, and height. Most storage units have an eight-foot ceiling. The taller the unit, the more space you will have — you can stack up to the roof when you pack the room. Lower ceilings may mean substantially less space. When inquiring about a unit, ask for all dimensions to avoid any surprises.

Always Round Up When Choosing a Unit

Once you have a solid estimate of the space you need, round up to the next size. There’s nothing more frustrating than moving half your belongings in and realizing there isn’t enough space for the rest. 

If you get a unit that’s too small, you might spend all day moving things around to try and squeeze in the last few boxes. If it won’t all fit, you might need to upgrade your unit and move everything again — that’s a lot of unnecessary work! Your storage facility may also not have a larger unit available. If you can afford to upsize from your estimate, do it.

Find Your Ideal Storage Unit Size

Visualizing the amount of space you need in a storage unit can be challenging. A good tip is to rent a storage unit one size smaller than your moving truck. For example, if you’re using a 25-foot truck, a 10’x20′ storage unit should do the trick. With a 15-foot truck, you can opt for a 10’x10′ option.

Units may be available as small as 4’x4’, which is the size of a large closet. These compact units are often great for seasonal storage, like holiday decorations or camping gear. Larger units usually range from 5’x10’ to 10’x30’. Review the chart below to determine which size is best for your needs.

Unit	Size	Estimated Contents
5’x10′	50 square feet	Looks like a walk-in closet and fits the contents of a one-bedroom apartment.
10’x10′	100 square feet	The size of a small bedroom, but it can hold two bedrooms worth of belongings.
10’x15′	150 square feet	Equivalent to a one-car garage, this size can fit three bedrooms’ worth of furniture and boxes.
10’x20′	200 square feet	It can hold the belongings of an entire three-bedroom apartment or a small car.
10’x30′	300 square feet	Often the largest unit size, this can store anything from a boat to a five-bedroom house.

Your ability to pack items into the space impacts how much you can fit into a storage unit. By being intentional in your packing, you’ll be able to fit more into the unit. Remember to leave enough space to move around if you need access to anything you’ve put in storage.

FAQ

Should I go bigger or get two units?

It’s often less expensive to rent a larger unit than an additional small one. Going bigger is better unless there’s a reason to separate your items, such as the need for climate control.

Do I need climate control?

A climate-controlled storage unit is best for items prone to environmental damage, such as artwork, wooden furniture, or electronics. However, if you’re storing durable items, you can likely go without one.

When should I ask for outdoor access?

Ask for an outdoor unit to store items that don’t fit through a standard 36”x 80” doorway. A garage door opening to the outside makes it possible to move larger items in and out.

Can I downgrade if I don’t need as much space?

You can often size down if the facility has a smaller storage unit available. Check your rental terms and prepare to pay for the overlap during the month you transfer units. You may pay for an extra month if you need both for a few days.