Storage Unit Sizing Guide

Published on 6/16/2024
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Choosing the Best Non-Climate Controlled Self Storage Unit: A Size Guide

When it comes to self-storage, selecting the right unit size is crucial for saving both money and hassle. Non-climate controlled units are a popular choice for many, offering a cost-effective way to store items that don't require temperature or humidity regulation. To help you make the best decision, we've outlined what can typically be accommodated in four common unit sizes: 5' x 10', 10' x 10', 10' x 20', and 10' x 30'.


5' x 10' Storage Units

Dimensions: 50 square feet (5 feet wide by 10 feet deep)


What Can Fit:

- Furniture: Small furniture items like chairs, end tables, and small dressers.

- Boxes: Approximately 10-15 medium-sized boxes.

- Appliances: Small appliances like microwaves, toasters, and mini-fridges.

- Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations, gardening tools, and sporting equipment.


Ideal For:

A 5' x 10' unit is perfect for storing the contents of a small studio apartment or a dorm room. It’s a great option for those who need to store a few pieces of furniture and boxes but don't require a large amount of space.


Example Scenarios:

- Storing items during a college summer break.

- Keeping a few pieces of furniture and belongings safe during a home renovation.

- Decluttering your home by storing seasonal items or items not frequently used.


10' x 10' Storage Units

Dimensions: 100 square feet (10 feet wide by 10 feet deep)


What Can Fit:

- Furniture: Larger furniture items including couches, mattresses, bed frames, dressers, and dining sets.

- Boxes: Approximately 20-30 medium-sized boxes.

- Appliances: Larger appliances such as refrigerators, washers, and dryers.

- Miscellaneous: Bicycles, lawn mowers, and other larger seasonal items.


Ideal For:

A 10' x 10' unit is suitable for storing the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. This size is excellent for those in the process of moving, renovating, or needing to store a more considerable amount of personal belongings.


Example Scenarios:

- Storing belongings during a home remodeling project.

- Transitioning between homes and needing a place to keep furniture and boxes.

- Business owners needing to store excess inventory or office equipment.


10' x 20' Storage Units

Dimensions: 200 square feet (10 feet wide by 20 feet deep)


What Can Fit:

- Furniture: Entire sets of living room, bedroom, and dining room furniture.

- Boxes: 50+ medium-sized boxes.

- Appliances: Multiple large appliances.

- Vehicles: Small vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs, or small cars (depending on the facility).


Ideal For:

A 10' x 20' unit is large enough to accommodate the contents of a multi-bedroom house. It’s perfect for those who need to store a significant amount of furniture and belongings, as well as small vehicles.


Example Scenarios:

- Storing the contents of a home during an extended move or international relocation.

- Keeping household items safe during an extensive home renovation.

- Business owners needing substantial storage space for equipment or inventory.


10' x 30' Storage Units

Dimensions: 300 square feet (10 feet wide by 30 feet deep)


What Can Fit:

- Furniture: Complete contents of a large home, including multiple bedrooms, living room, dining room, and outdoor furniture.

- Boxes: 70+ medium-sized boxes.

- Appliances: Multiple large appliances, possibly including larger items like a piano.

- Vehicles: Larger vehicles, such as cars, trucks, or boats (depending on the facility).


Ideal For:

A 10' x 30' unit is ideal for those who need to store the contents of a large home or multiple smaller homes. This size is also suitable for storing large items such as vehicles or extensive business inventory.


Example Scenarios:

- Storing all household items during a major cross-country move.

- Keeping large quantities of inventory or business equipment.

- Vehicle storage for cars, boats, or large recreational vehicles.


Final Tips for Choosing the Right Unit


- Inventory Your Items: Before selecting a unit size, make a list of everything you plan to store. This helps in visualizing how much space you’ll need.

- Consider Future Needs: Think about whether you might need extra space in the near future. It might be more cost-effective to rent a slightly larger unit now.

- Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the storage facility to get a better idea of the unit sizes and what might fit in each.

- Stacking and Organizing: Plan to stack boxes and organize your unit efficiently to maximize space. Use shelving units if possible to keep items organized and accessible.


Choosing the right storage unit size is crucial for making sure your belongings are stored safely and efficiently. By considering what you plan to store and how much space you’ll need, you can select the best storage unit for your needs.