different size storage units

Different-Size Storage Units: Your Perfect Fit

By Rachel Smith
AD

When it comes to self-storage, finding the right size unit can be a bit of a puzzle. Different life situations require diverse storage needs, from seasonal items to entire households. With that in mind, explore various storage unit sizes and discover which one fits your specific requirements.

Before diving into the different sizes, let's first understand how they are typically measured. Self-storage units are usually described by their square footage, but their actual storage capacity varies based on ceiling height. Hence, while two units may have the same square footage, their cubic footage - and thus actual storage capacity - could differ.

Small Storage Units

Small storage units are perfect for storing personal belongings during apartment moves, college students' dorm items over the summer, or a few boxes of seasonal decorations. They typically range from 5x5 to 5x10 feet.

AD
Self Storage Size Guide
Self Storage Size Guide
an info sheet describing the different types of furniture and appliances in this image are shown
an info sheet describing the different types of furniture and appliances in this image are shown
Choosing the Perfect Fit: A Guide to Different Sizes of Self Storage Units
Choosing the Perfect Fit: A Guide to Different Sizes of Self Storage Units

Within this category, consider the following sizes and their uses:

5x5 Unit

The smallest storage unit, a 5x5 is comparable to a walk-in closet. Ideal for college students or those who need to store a few smaller items, it can accommodate a couple of boxes and smaller furniture like an end table or lamp.

a row of storage units with closed doors
a row of storage units with closed doors
Understanding the Different Types of Secure Storage in Houston
Understanding the Different Types of Secure Storage in Houston
Understanding Storage Unit Sizes: What Fits in a 5x5?
Understanding Storage Unit Sizes: What Fits in a 5x5?

As an example, a 5x5 unit can hold about two to three room-sized furniture pieces, plus 10-15 small boxes.

5x10 Unit

Next in line, a 5x10 unit is bigger than a standard closet but still compact. This size is great for storing a small apartment's worth of items, such as a one-bedroom apartment or dorm room during a break. It can comfortably accommodate a two-person sofa, some boxes, and small appliances like a small fridge or TV.

AD

You can fit about three to five room-sized furniture pieces and 10-20 boxes in a 5x10 unit.

a row of storage units with blue doors
a row of storage units with blue doors
How Much Storage Space Do You Really Need?
How Much Storage Space Do You Really Need?
5-Tier Metal Storage Shelving Unit with V-Shaped Wire Rack-Black
5-Tier Metal Storage Shelving Unit with V-Shaped Wire Rack-Black
Student Storage | Space Centre Self Storage
Student Storage | Space Centre Self Storage
Ultimate Checklist: Storage Unit Size Guide for Homeowners
Ultimate Checklist: Storage Unit Size Guide for Homeowners
78.7'' H X 110'' W 11-Drawer Bookcase With Glass Doors
78.7'' H X 110'' W 11-Drawer Bookcase With Glass Doors

Medium Storage Units

Medium-sized storage units are perfect for transitions in life, like moving to a new city, storing furniture during a remodel, or storing excess inventory for small business owners. These units vary from 10x10 to 10x20 feet.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each size:

AD

10x10 Unit

A 10x10 unit, also known as a "10," is roughly the size of a small one-car garage. This size is ideal for storing the contents of a studio or one-bedroom apartment during a move or renovations. It can comfortably fit a queen-sized bed, some boxes, and a few furniture pieces.

Storage Size Guide
Storage Size Guide
10x10
10x10
Decluttering - Mummy Matters: Parenting And Lifestyle
Decluttering - Mummy Matters: Parenting And Lifestyle
5 Small Storage Unit Hacks That Save Space
5 Small Storage Unit Hacks That Save Space
The Ultimate Storage System Plans, Storage Unit Pl
The Ultimate Storage System Plans, Storage Unit Pl
storage units with yellow and blue doors are lined up in a long row at the self storage facility
storage units with yellow and blue doors are lined up in a long row at the self storage facility
Beautiful Storage Ideas For Small Apartments
Beautiful Storage Ideas For Small Apartments
a wooden shelf with drawers and measurements
a wooden shelf with drawers and measurements
Fix Your Overflowing Storage Unit Fast - Home as We Make It
Fix Your Overflowing Storage Unit Fast - Home as We Make It
the floor plan for a living room is shown in four different colors and sizes,
the floor plan for a living room is shown in four different colors and sizes,
5-Tier Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit – 72"x48"x24" Heavy Duty Metal Shelves for Garage Pantry 72.0 H x 48.0 W x 24.0 D in
5-Tier Adjustable Storage Shelving Unit – 72"x48"x24" Heavy Duty Metal Shelves for Garage Pantry 72.0 H x 48.0 W x 24.0 D in
the diagram shows different types of garage doors and their corresponding features for each type of home
the diagram shows different types of garage doors and their corresponding features for each type of home
a multicolored shelf is next to a white wall with bookshelves on it
a multicolored shelf is next to a white wall with bookshelves on it
How to Choose a Storage Unit: 7 Key Factors to Make the Right Choice
How to Choose a Storage Unit: 7 Key Factors to Make the Right Choice

On average, a 10x10 can hold one to two room's worth of furniture and 25-40 boxes.

10x15 Unit

The 10x15 unit, or "15," is larger still, offering ample space for storing belongings from a two- to three-bedroom home. If you're downsizing or moving long-distance, this size can take the stress out of relocation by providing plenty of room for your belongings.

AD

A 10x15 can accommodate the contents of one to two rooms, plus additional boxes - generally around 25-50 boxes.

10x20 Unit

The largest of the medium storage units, a 10x20 provides enough space to store the contents of a three- to four-bedroom home. Great for both residential and commercial uses, this size can handle inventory overflow, equipment, or signage for businesses, or store household items during a major relocation.

In a 10x20, you can fit the contents of around two to three rooms, plus numerous boxes - approximately 50-75 boxes.

Large Storage Units

Large storage units are perfect for those needing extra space, like businesses with excess stock, car enthusiasts storing vehicles, or individuals with large collections or particularly bulky items. These units typically start at 10x30 feet and go up to 20x30 feet.

Explore the differing needs these large units can address:

10x30 Unit

The 10x30 unit, or "30," is a spacious As-is solution, perfect for storing the contents of a large home during renovations or a business's extra inventory. This size can accommodate numerous furniture pieces, boxes, and potentially even small vehicles like a car or boat.

A 10x30 unit can hold the contents of three to four rooms and around 75-100 boxes.

20x30 Unit

The largest standard self-storage unit, a 20x30 offers wide-open space, ideal for business inventory, equipment, and large vehicles. It's perfect for storing a small fleet of vehicles, oversized equipment, or a combination of inventory and large vehicles.

A 20x30 unit can store the contents of four to five rooms, plus numerous boxes - typically around 100-150 boxes.

Understanding the various sizes of storage units helps you make an informed decision about which size best fits your needs. By choosing the right size, you'll have peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe, organized, and easily accessible. Don't hesitate to reach out to a storage facility representative for personalized advice based on your unique situation. Happy storing!

AD