How to Choose the Perfect Unit Size for All Your Needs

Lockaway Storage | July 27, 2023 @ 12:00 AM

If you are planning to rent a storage unit, it's important to consider a few factors before making a decision. Simply choosing a small, medium, or large unit won't cut it. To help you make the right choice, we've prepared a guide to pick the correct storage unit. You can also use our helpful Unit Size Guide on our website.

Picking the Correct Storage Unit

1. Determine What You'll Store in the Unit

Before deciding on the size of the unit, it's crucial to know what you'll store in it. Answer the following questions:

· Will you be storing large items?

· Will you be storing business inventory?

· Will you use the unit for long-term or short-term storage?

· How often will you need to access your belongings?

Answering these questions will help you pick the right storage size. For instance, if you plan to store your business inventory, a larger unit may be the way to go, as it provides more space to add more inventory. On the other hand, if you need short-term storage, a unit that accommodates your initial belongings should suffice.

2. Make a List of the Items to Store

Although you may have a general idea of what to store, making a list is advisable to ensure that you take into account the amount of space you'll need. When creating a list, make sure to note the following:

The number of boxes you'll store.
The number of larger items, such as furniture or work equipment, you'll store.
The measurements of larger pieces you'll store.

3. Visualize the Space with Painter’s Tape

Try this hack to get a better idea of the space you'll need: use painter's tape to create the storage unit layout in your driveway or an open area. Once you have the size you're considering taped out, move your boxes or items inside the space to see if it works.

4. Go a Size Bigger if Needed

Opting for a storage unit smaller than you require may not be a wise decision from a safety perspective. It's important to note that certain precautions must be taken to avoid potential damage or risks during the storage process. For instance, it's advisable to stack boxes no more than four high (depending on size of boxes) and refrain from stacking furniture up to two pieces tall. Adherence to these safety measures could result in the loss or damage of your stored items or pose a safety hazard when unpacking.

It's worth noting that a larger storage unit may only cost a few dollars more per month, so it's essential to consider the potential cost savings before deciding on a unit size. In some cases, a larger unit may be less expensive, especially if more are available. Before deciding, it's advisable to calculate the costs involved and not be put off by the larger unit size.

Most Common Storage Unit Sizes

It's important to remember that not all storage facilities will have all the available sizes listed. Therefore, it's best to opt for the next size up if your preferred size is unavailable.

The 5'x5' storage unit is typically the most compact unit available in most storage facilities. Despite its small size, it can provide extra space around the house. To put its size into perspective, it's approximately the size of an average closet and can comfortably accommodate several boxes and one or two small pieces of furniture.

What typically fits in a 5x5?

· Dresser

· Many moving boxes or totes

· Small chairs

· Clothing

· Twin Mattress

The 5'x10' storage unit is the second smallest standard unit size available, and it can provide a bit more space for your belongings. This size is handy if you reside in a small city apartment. To put its size into perspective, it's approximately the same size as a walk-in closet. Don't underestimate its size; it could be the perfect size for you!

What typically fits in a 5x10?

· 1-2 large pieces of furniture

· 10-15 moving boxes or totes

· Yard equipment

· King-size bed

· Dresser

The 10'x10' storage unit is the most used size due to its versatility. This medium-sized space amounts to roughly half the size of a standard garage.

What typically fits in a 10x10?

· Contents of a 2-bedroom apartment

· Major appliances

· 10-20 moving boxes or totes

If you're looking for a medium-sized storage unit, the 10'x15' size could be an excellent option. This unit can comfortably accommodate a compact car if you need to store one.

What typically fits in a 10x15?

· Some compact cars

· All the contents of a two-bedroom home

· Large appliances

· 10-20 moving boxes or totes

· Large furniture

· Inventory storage

The 10'x20' storage unit is the second-largest unit available, roughly the size of a one-car garage.

What typically fits in a 10x20?

· Belongings from a 2-3 bedroom house

· Some compact and midsize cars

· A fair amount of small business inventory or supplies

· Inventory storage

· Oversized items

The 10'x30' storage unit is the biggest available storage unit for residential purposes. If you choose this unit, you will have access to roughly three-hundred square feet of space. If you have a big family or a growing business and need a substantial amount of space, this is the perfect unit for you!

What typically fits in a 10x30?

· Contents of a four-bedroom house

· Mattress sets