Common Storage Unit Sizes & Which One to Choose for Your Needs

Ever feel like the clutter is getting out of control in a small space? A self storage unit offers flexibility and convenience to help you stay organized. Self storage facilities can, within reason, provide as much storage as you need. Whether you are a small business owner outgrowing your current location or an individual or family in need of a place to keep your belongings during an unexpected move, finding the proper storage unit has never been easier.

But how do you know what kind of storage unit you need? What are common sizes available at most facilities? Before you head out to your local Prime Storage location to rent a unit, let’s walk through some of the most common sizes available at many facilities.

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What Am I Storing In My Storage Unit?

Before you pick a unit, save yourself from being overwhelmed by figuring out what the unit’s function is. For example, is it primarily short-term storage for a few odds and ends, or will this be a semi-permanent way to reduce clutter in your home or business?

Ask yourself what kind of items you plan on storing and for how long. Most experts agree that making an inventory list is one of the first and most essential steps in any storage situation, and we love lists. But don’t just inventory your items. Also, think about the boxes you’ll be using to store them. By knowing the rough measurements of each box or container to be used, you can think in terms of square footage versus the number of items. This method makes picking a unit size much more manageable, even if the math is less fun.

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Storage Unit Sizes

Most facilities have a standard array of sizes, which is pretty convenient. For example, storage units can range from 5×5 units to garage-sized 10×30 spaces. In some cases, business owners can benefit from warehouse-sized units that can accommodate a lot of inventory.

Knowing what each storage unit fits goes a long way toward saving you precious time and money. Nothing says “bad day” like renting a unit and starting to load items into it, only to find out halfway through that it won’t fit all your belongings.

5X5 Storage Units

A 5×5 unit fits the same number of items as a typical walk-in closet, which makes it handy for small storage needs. And, no, we don’t mean one of those shared walk-in closets that you know one person ends up getting all to themselves since it’s too small. With the right packing prowess and organization, a 25-square-foot storage unit is well-suited to household clutter or small furniture. In addition, most 5×5 units are affordably priced and can include amenities, such as climate control, for maximum value.

5X10 Storage Units

5×10 storage units are the second smallest units available at many facilities and are great for apartment-sized storage needs. Think of a larger walk-in closet (now we’re talking about the shared kind). It’s big enough for boxes, but it can easily handle storage needs, like a king-sized bed, extra dresser, and around 10 to 15 boxes, depending on their size.

10X10 Storage Units

Looking to store some bulky furniture or office equipment? Consider a 10×10 storage unit. These 100 square foot spaces are equivalent to half of a standard garage and are perfect for items like:

• Lawn equipment
• Household furniture, including couches, tables, mattresses, and more
• Office equipment like desks and chairs
• Bookshelves
• Seasonal decor or camping gear
• Around 10-20 moving boxes

These storage units are great options for people who need to store the contents of a two-bedroom apartment and still have space to move throughout the unit.

10X15 Storage Units

The 150-square-foot space with a 10×15 storage unit makes this an excellent option for families. These units are great for smaller households and are equivalent in size to a large bedroom. The 10×15 storage unit is a good fit for the following items:

• Commercial inventory or equipment
• Outdoor equipment, like bicycles and skis
• Major appliances, including refrigerators and washing machines
• Big household furniture, like couches and dining room tables

10X20 Storage Units

Larger 10 x 20 units offer flexibility for home staging, remodeling, or moving. They’re also ideal—in some locations—for storing small vehicles, like a car, motorcycle, or golf cart. Just make sure there are units with drive-up access available. Our facility aisles might be wide but won’t fit a car. In addition to major appliances and bulky furniture, these units are also great for musical instruments, like a grand piano or your home studio, especially if they’re climate controlled.

10X30 Storage Units

The largest storage unit available for personal use, 10×30 units, are the size of a large garage and can hold the contents of a four- or five-bedroom house. That’s a lot to pack! If the items you plan on storing are not easily boxed or are incredibly bulky—like major appliances, outdoor equipment, sectional sofas, or big bedroom sets—this is the storage unit for you.

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Sometimes typical storage unit sizes just won’t cut it, either because you need more space for your things (some of us have a lot of stuff, and we don’t judge) or because the items you want to store, like a large RV or boat, won’t fit in a standard unit. Instead, select facilities may offer covered parking or even dedicated commercial storage space like a warehouse. If there’s any doubt about what storage options will meet your needs, reach out to your local facility to see what’s available.

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When In Doubt, Go Up A Size

Much like when buying pants, it never hurts to go up one size if they don’t fit right. On the other hand, buying a smaller storage unit just because it’s less expensive may not be a great idea, especially if you’ve never rented one. Stacking boxes or furniture too high could lead to damage from shifting or falling, not to mention a safety hazard.

A larger unit might only be a few dollars more per month and is probably a lot cheaper than a hospital visit. You could also potentially save money by skipping amenities like climate control if you don’t need them. It’s a lot easier to move your items into a storage unit once.

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Visit Prime Storage To Find Affordable Storage In the Size You Need

Whether you’re a storage expert or moving for the first time, finding the space you need shouldn’t be a hassle or a headache. Prime Storage has your back and can help answer any questions about choosing a unit. Call or visit your nearest facility to meet our storage professionals and rent the perfect space for you.