How to Choose a Storage Unit

Self-storage units are available in a wide range of sizes. To determine how to choose a storage unit size that fits your needs, take an inventory of all the items you plan to store. Making a list is often useful, since you’re less likely to forget items which require more space. Also, think about your future needs. Is it likely you will be adding items later on? If so, consider adding those to your list to be sure that your space will accommodate your items now and in the future.

Once you have determined the items you will need to store, it’s time to consider their sizes and weights. Some items can stack on top of each other, while others may be too heavy or awkward in shape, requiring their own space. One way to help with choosing a storage unit size is by actually packing your belongings and stacking them together. Without damaging any items inside the boxes, use a tape measurer to see how much space you need. Try using different containers or boxes to figure out the most efficient way to store everything.

Length of Time Should Be Considered When Choosing the Right Storage Unit

Depending on how long you plan to store items, it may be important to provide space for ventilation and access. When storing belongings for short periods of time, it is usually okay to pack them closer together. When storing belongings for longer periods of time, however, providing extra space not only for ventilation, but also for a walkway so you can get to your items is also vital. For belongings that you may need to access regularly, consider leaving enough space in your unit for an aisle. Then, be sure to arrange those belongings along the aisle for easy access.

To help you determine how to choose a storage unit size that works for you, we summarized this process in the five easy steps below.

1. Make an inventory list of all the items you plan to store
2. Identify items you will need to access in storage
3. Measure and estimate the collective packing size of the items you plan to store
4. Be sure to account for extra space to provide ventilation
5. Reference these packing requirements with unit size details below

Types of Storage Units Sizes to Choose From

Each of the types of storage unit sizes and the items they are used to traditionally store are featured below. For more details on choosing a storage unit, along with a visual breakdown of what can be placed in each unit, be sure to visit our Storage Unit Size Guide.

Small Storage Units

5’x5′ Units

About the size of a small walk-in closet, 5×5 storage units are ideal for personal items, clothes, boxes, skis, children’s toys, small furniture, business records or sales rep materials.

5’x10′ Units

5’x10′ units can store small amounts of furniture, sofas, chairs, chest of drawers, box spring and mattress, business supplies and record, plus other small items and boxes.

Medium Storage Units

7.5’x10′ Units

7.5’x10′ units can also store small amounts of furniture, sofas, chairs, chest of drawers, box spring and mattress, business supplies and records, plus other small items and boxes.

10’x10′ Units

10’x10′ storage units can hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment with major appliances, furniture and boxed items and supplies.

Large Storage Units

10’x15′ Units

10’x15′ storage units can hold the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or home, including appliances, boxes, furniture and boxed items and supplies.

10’x20′ Units

10’x20′ storage units can hold the contents of a three-bedroom apartment or home, including appliances, boxes, furniture and boxed items and supplies. These storage units are also ideal for commercial inventory and storage racks.

10’x30′ Units

10’x30′ storage units can hold the contents of a four- to five-bedroom home, including appliances, boxes, furniture and boxed items and supplies. These storage units are also ideal for commercial and equipment storage.

Why Selecting the Right Storage Unit Matters & Who Can Help

Determining the right size storage unit for your needs will prove to be your best value. Before making a final decision, visit your nearest ezStorage facility and ask to see a unit that is the same size you are considering. Viewing the space may be easier than trying to picture it in your head. Also, a reputable storage facility will have staff that are trained and experienced in helping tenants determine the proper storage space so bring your inventory list and packing estimate details to discuss. You can always visit our FAQ page to find answers to your self storage questions.

We’ve also created the Ultimate Guide for Renting Your First Storage Unit, filled with everything you need to know to find the right storage solution for you.

At ezStorage, our storage professionals are here to help make your storage experience simple. Stop by one of our many storage facilities near you today!