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How To Estimate The Storage Unit Size You Need?

February 25, 2025


Choosing the proper storage unit size is essential as it can save you over $1000 yearly. So, take the estimated size seriously before confirming your booking. To find the perfect match for your stuff and unis, you can follow some steps. 

In this article, we have mentioned 5 effective steps to estimate the unit size accurately based on your amount of belonging. So jump to the straight below–

5 Steps To Estimate The Storage Unit Size You Need

1. Estimate The Volume Of Your Belongings

To estimate the size of the storage unit, you first have to understand the total amount of stuff you want to store. You can make a list and write down all your items. Then, gather all the belongings in an organized way by type and size. You can do that by following these methods–

Besides, all the things that require climate-controlled units must be packed separately. For instance, photographs, business documents, and others.

2. Check The Home Storage Options

When you are done packing, double-check that you have the storage size you want to use. If you purchase the largest unit and you only have stuff for the smaller unit, then you can lose a good amount of money.

The distinction between the small and large size units is around $1000 yearly. So you better take a few minutes to check your stuff and storage unit.

 

What Fits in a Small Storage unit?

The small unit size is approximately 5 feet wide and long. Therefore, you can store over 50 square feet of items. Customers usually keep small belongings such as patio furniture, outdoor gear, and others.

3. Calculate Your Space

Now, you have to calculate the storage size based on your items. You can do that by following these measurements–

 

Therefore, you can measure the items in many ways. For instance, you can either gather your item and measure the pile or measure all item’s height and width individually. Also, you can go through the company’s website for accurate measurements.

What do I use to measure my belongings?

To measure your belongings, use a tape measure for larger items like furniture, a ruler for smaller objects, and a digital scale for weight. For more precise measurements, consider calipers. Smartphone apps can also assist with measuring dimensions and organizing inventory.

4. Choose A Storage Unit Size

Once you have measured all your items, decide if you need a small or large storage unit. There are many storage units of different sizes, but they generally fall into these three categories. For example, small units can hold up to 50 square feet of items. Meanwhile, medium units can store around 150 square feet, and large units can accommodate up to 300 square feet.

WOW Mover Storage Unit Size Guide

Sizes Dimensions (feet) Cubic footage Square footage Fits
Large 10 x 20–10 x 30 1,600–2,400 200–300 Up to 5 rooms
Medium 5 x 15–10 x 15 600–1,200 75–150 Up to 3 rooms
Small 5 x 5–5 x 10 200–400 25–50 Up to 1 room

 

How tall are storage units?

Most storage units are around eight feet tall. This means that someone as tall as 6′9″.

5. Choose Specific Measurements

The final step is figuring out what size storage unit you need to contact storage facilities and select a certain size. By choosing a suitable size, you can save money. As you have already decided on the unit size in step 4, you can now go through the company website. This will help you find the exact measurement.

Unit Sizes By Different Company

Company Name Unit Sizes Learn more
Extra Space Storage 8+
Public Storage 7+
Life Storage 9+
CubeSmart 11+

How To Save Money On Your Storage Unit?

Identify Your Largest Items

When you don’t have time to make a detailed inventory, you can quickly decide on the size of the storage unit you need by measuring your longest and widest items. Based on the WOW Mover storage unit size guide, if an item is more than 10 feet long or wide, a small unit will work. If it’s more than 15 feet, you’ll need a large unit instead of a medium one.

Compare The Costs

Often, storage units cost a lot compared to other stuff. For instance, when you store beds, shelves, and dressers, these will cost around $150 monthly. However, you can compare the cost of all other cheap storage in your locations; then, the high-price company can lower the price.

Ask About Specific Sizes

Often, companies have more available sizes of units than published on the website. So it is better to call the company and ask the representative about the size based on your items. Usually, they are able to provide the exact size.

Research Several Companies

Don’t settle after checking one company; search online for all the companies situated in your location. This way, you can get more options and choose one which is available at the lowest price.

Visit A Storage Facility

Searching and reading storage units online can be beneficial, but if you visit the facility, it can save you time and money. Just go inside the facility and understand how much stuff a unit can store. This visit can save you $100.

Consider Moving Containers

This can be a great alternative if you want to store for the short term. However, moving containers are popular for the lowest price range compared to rental trucks. Its storage facility is also excellent, with a monthly charge. This can save a few dollars and the stress of transportation.

FAQs About Storage Unit Sizes

What is the average square footage of a three-bedroom house?

The square footage can be 1,300 to 2,500 for a three-bedroom house. However, this size can change based on locations and companies.

 

What size storage unit do I need for major appliances?

For large appliances, choose between medium to big storage units. You can store in these sizes from washers, refrigerators, dryers, and more.

 

Where can I find 10 x 10 storage?

Many companies come with 10×10 storage sizes. For instance, Extra Space, CubeSmart, and more.

 

What is the largest standard storage unit size?

The biggest storage unit size is 10×30 feet, providing 300 square feet of space. This unit can store the contents of a large home, including furniture and vehicles.

 

What size storage do I need?

The size of the storage unit you need is based on your stuff. There are many storage sizes available, such as small (25-50) and large (200-300) square feet.

 

Will a mattress set fit in a medium storage unit?

Yes, you can store a mattress in a medium storage unit easily.

 

How much is a storage unit?

The cost of a storage unit varies based on size, location, and amenities. On average, prices range from $50 to $300 per month.

 

What is the average storage unit size?

The average storage unit size varies, but common dimensions include 5×5 feet (25 sq. ft.), 10×10 feet (100 sq. ft.), and 10×20 feet (200 sq. ft.). These sizes accommodate different needs, from small items to larger furniture and appliances. 

 

Which company has the most affordable storage space?

CubeSmart is recognized as the company with the most affordable storage space. It offers units at an average monthly rate of approximately $160, which is about 20% below the industry average.

 

What is the smallest storage unit size?

The smallest storage unit size typically available is 5×5 feet, equivalent to 25 square feet. This compact space is ideal for storing small items like boxes, seasonal decorations, or personal belongings.