If you’re moving, downsizing, or remodeling and know you need extra space for your belongings, the next question is: What storage size do I need?
Answering this question is mission-critical. Because you don’t want to pay for more storage than you actually need or end up getting another unit after realizing the one you chose is too small. But how would you know your ideal storage size? We break down each unit below to find the right size storage unit for you!
Storage Unit Size Guide
We’ll begin with a storage unit size guide for the most common storage spaces in the market. Take note that the standard ceiling height is 8 ft.
Small Self-Storage Units
Small storage units are perfect if you need to stash away seasonal items, like holiday decorations, a few boxes and small furniture from one room.
Storage Lockers
Size: Typically no bigger than 4’x5′, with a lower ceiling height than a storage unit.
Holds: A storage locker is ideal if you only have a few things to put in storage, for short term storage.
5’ x 5’ Storage Units
Size: 25 sq ft, small walk-in closet
Holds: Mattresses smaller than queen-size, chair and dresser, seasonal wardrobe and sports equipment, Christmas tree and holiday decor.
5’ x 10’ Storage Units
Size: 50 sq ft, medium walk-in closet
Holds: Furnishings of one bedroom like a queen sized mattress and bedframe, refrigerator, or a motorcycle.
Medium Self-Storage Units
Medium sized storage units are ideal if you are renovating, moving between apartments or need to clear out a couple of rooms. These units tend to fit the contents of a one to two bedroom apartment.
5’ x 15’ Storage Unit
Size: 75 sq ft, similar to a small bedroom
Holds: Items from a regular 500 sq ft home, bedroom furniture, sofa, washer and dryer, and a refrigerator.
10’ x 10’ Storage Unit
Size: 100 sq ft, similar to a standard bedroom or half of a one-car garage
Holds: Items from a two-bedroom home, including two bedroom, a few appliances, dining room furniture and entertainment centers.
Large Self-Storage Units
Large storage units are the least popular since they are big enough to store the contents of an entire two to four bedroom home. Renters choose these sizes if they are moving a family to a new home or going on an extended trip or on leave, like military personnel or expats.
10’ x 15’ Storage Unit
Size: 150 sq ft, slightly smaller than a one-car garage
Holds: Furnishings from a two bedroom house, including kitchen appliances, or a compact car.
10’ x 20’ Storage Unit
Size: 200 sq ft, same as a standard one-car garage
Holds: Items from a three bedroom house, including full-sized appliances like a, dryer, and refrigerator.
10’ x 25’ Storage Unit
Size: 250 sq ft, little larger than a one-car garage
Holds: Things from a fully furnished three to four bedroom house, a large truck, a small RV, or a boat.
10’ x 30’ Storage Unit
Size: 300 sq ft, one-and-a-half car garage
Holds: Furnishings from a five-bedroom house, a large truck, an RV, or a boat.
Hopefully you have a better idea what size storage unit you need, but if you’re still unsure you a reserve a larger unit and downsize once you get to your storage facility. And remember you should always speak to a manager at your storage facility to make sure what you can and can’t put into your storage unit.
For more moving and storage tips, check out SelfStorage.com’s Moving Blog!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Studio or Bedroom?
Get a storage space between 5×10 and 10×10.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Two Bedroom Apartment?
Pick a storage unit between 10×10 and 10×15.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Three Bedroom House?
Choose a space between 10×15 and 10×20.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Four Bedroom House?
Go for large storage spaces like 10×20 or 10×30.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Car?
It depends on the type of car you have. If it’s a compact car, a 10×15 storage space is just enough but if you have a sedan, the 10×20 is ideal. For vans and trucks, pick between a 10×25 or 10×30.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Boat?
Most boats can fit in a 10×20 to 10×30 storage space. Always measure your boat before confirming a size so you get exactly what you need.
