What’s Your Perfect Storage Unit Size?

Take it from us: it can be challenging to figure out the perfect storage unit size for your belongings. Measurements that once seemed straightforward can become complex once you start the mental gymnastics of matching the volume of your valuables with the self-storage sizes available. You may begin to ask yourself mystifying questions like, How big is a 5×10 storage unit? or How large is 300 square feet? And if you’re trying to store bulky items that don’t fit in easily measured and stacked boxes like camping gear or patio furniture…that’s a whole other equation.

Lucky for you, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll cover when to rent a storage unit, how to pick which storage unit size works best, and what to do about specialty items like large appliances or vehicles.

Is It Worth Renting a Storage Unit?

First things first, let’s answer the key questions those in need of storage typically ask: How much does self-storage typically cost? and How do I know if it’s worth it to rent a storage unit for my stuff?

It likely comes as no surprise that costs can vary widely depending on what type and what size storage unit you need, and can be greatly impacted by other variables like location, season, etc. Most household items would do best in climate-controlled storage, as temperature fluctuations and exposure to UV light can cause irreversible damage very quickly. So, if you don’t have access to an even temperature space, it would be a good idea to tour nearby storage facilities and arrange to rent a climate-controlled storage unit.

As for which size storage unit you need, there are many factors to consider aside from the actual volume of your items. Think about how often you need to access your belongings and how you will use your unit. Some customers use self-storage for storing outdoor furniture or other pieces they don’t need to retrieve for months on end. Others use storage to house their small business stock or tools, which requires them to keep their spaces in good order (with plenty of space to navigate) for their weekly – or even daily – visits.

Once you’ve determined how and when you’ll access your unit, you can better figure out which of the self-storage sizes available best suit your needs. We’ll go into a bit more detail throughout the rest of the article, but also invite you to visit our storage size guide page for helpful advice and illustrations.

Small Options: Storage Locker, 5×5, and 5×10 Storage Units

When it comes to smaller-sized storage, there are plenty of options available. At CubeSmart, for instance, you can choose between a storage locker, a 5×5 storage unit or a 5×10 storage unit for your smaller household items or merchandise.

A storage locker can be used for items like toys, books, or off-season clothes and sports goods, while the 5×5 storage unit can fit between 5-8 boxes, small furniture, suitcases, and the like. A 5×10 storage unit offers 400 cubic feet of space and resembles a roomy medium-sized walk-in closet. (Some options even include built-in shelving and lighting.) These units can fit office equipment, compact furniture, and even some appliances, like fans or lamps.

Medium Options: 10×10 and 10×15 Storage Units

Wondering what can you fit in a 10×10 storage unit? Wonder no more. A 10×10 storage unit is about the size of a bedroom and can generally accommodate the contents of a 12-foot moving truck. If you’re in the market to store the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or small office, this is likely the size you will want to investigate first.

A 10×15 storage unit provides ample space for large appliances or furniture items. If you’re moving apartments or office spaces – or simply need to free up space for a remodel – a 10×15 unit is often your best bet as it can fit the contents of a 16-foot moving truck. Water heaters, both small and large appliances, dressers, beds, and similar items can easily fit in a unit this size – with plenty of room to get around. 

Large Options: 10×20 and Up

It’s not What can you fit in a 10×20 storage unit? it’s What can you not fit in a 10×20 storage unit? About the size of a one-car garage, a 10×20 storage unit is great for household belongings as well as larger items like a motorcycle, vehicle or small boat. Exercise equipment, sectional couches and mattresses are no problem for larger units. In fact, once you see the size of the unit, you may be inspired to store even more pieces than you were initially considering.

A 10×30 storage unit is the largest size we have that’s not specific to vehicles. With 2400 cubic feet of space, you can fit a large garage worth of belongings. If you need to find a spot for the contents of a four- or five-bedroom house, this size will probably be your top choice. Everything from large appliances to king-sized bedroom sets to mid-sized vehicles and boats can be stored in a 10×30 with space to spare. 

Specialized Storage for Vehicles

Although the larger units mentioned above can work great for motorcycle or car storage, CubeSmart also offers specialized options for larger cars and vehicles such as boats, jet skis, ATVs, and RVs:

• Camper, trailer, and RV storage choices include 40-foot outdoor spaces, which can be either covered or uncovered depending on your preference.
• 10×25 indoor boat storage units are available for motorboats and skiffs.
• Jet Skis and ATVs can either be stored in an interior, climate-controlled unit or an exterior, covered one depending on your specific needs and climate.

Take care of your most valuable assets – and make sure they can be easily accessed for adventure on the road or water – by choosing the right storage unit. If you’re unsure what’s available, check with your local CubeSmart for pricing and availability or contact us.

Storage for Small Businesses

You may be surprised to realize how many business owners rely on storage facilities to augment or replace their existing spaces. We serve many entrepreneurs who store all types of inventories, tools, and supplies in their units. Our storage facilities are as adaptable as our customers and can be customized to fit whatever business needs you may have over the short- or long-term.

No matter what you need to store, how long you need to store it, or what conditions it needs to be in, CubeSmart has an option that’s right for you. Stop by and ask for a tour to see examples of these types of units and more. We’ll help you find the best fit in no time.