Storage Unit Size Guide: How to Choose the Right One
Fact Checked by: Here’s the quick answer: Storage unit sizes usually range from the size of a small walk-in closet (5×5) to a large garage (10×30) and beyond. The most common sizes are 5×5, 5×10, 10×10, 10×15, and 10×20, with larger sizes for special cases like storing a car.
The right size storage unit depends on what you’re storing and how much space it takes up. Whether you’re a college student or a homeowner needing more space, picking the right size can save you time and money. We help thousands of people with their storage needs. Here’s a clear way to choose the right fit.
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Storage unit size guides
Storage units range from compact 5 feet × 5 feet spaces to expansive 20 feet × 20 feet units. Most facilities have ceilings around 8–10 feet high, so it helps to think in cubic feet as well as floor space.
Quick math: length × width × height (for example, a 5 × 10 × 8 unit ≈ 400 cubic feet).
| Size | Approx. capacity | What typically fits | Who it’s best for | Typical monthly price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 × 5 (≈ 200–250 cu ft) | Small walk-in closet | Seasonal décor, a bike, small dresser, 6–10 boxes | Extra “closet” space | $70–$90 |
| 5 × 7.5 | Between 5×5 and 5×10 | Odd-shaped items, small furniture, 10–12 boxes | When 5×5 is tight but 5×10 is too much | $100–$130 |
| 5 × 10 (≈ 400–500 cu ft) | Walk-in closet / small shed | Mattress set, small sofa or love seat, 10–15 boxes | Studio apartment | $140–$170 |
| 10 × 10 (≈ 800–1,000 cu ft) | Half of a 1-car garage | 1-bedroom apartment: couch, bed, appliances, 20–25 boxes | One-bedroom moves | $190–$230 |
| 10 × 15 | Large bedroom | 2–3 rooms of furniture, large appliances, 30+ boxes | Large 1- to small 2-bedroom homes | $220–$280 |
| 10 × 20 | Standard 1-car garage | Entire 2- to small 3-bedroom home; motorcycles | Whole-home storage | $260–$350 |
| 10 × 30 / 20 × 20 | Oversized garage | Large homes, inventory, or multiple vehicles (where allowed) | Big moves or business storage | Varies widely |
*Prices vary by city, seasonality, climate control, and demand. Always compare local rates.
5 × 5 storage unit
Think of a 5 × 5 as a small walk-in closet. With 25 square feet of floor space, it’s great for seasonal items, a bike, or a few large boxes. Typical costs run $70–$80 per month, but pricing varies by location and whether or not you need features like climate control.
5 × 10 storage unit
This 5 × 10 doubles the space to 50 square feet. It can fit small furniture and the contents of a studio apartment. Expect to pay about $140–$150 per month, depending on demand and amenities.
10 × 10 storage unit
At 100 square feet, this size resembles half a single-car garage. It’s ideal for a typical one-bedroom apartment’s contents. Prices usually land around $200–$210 per month, but the actual rate can vary pretty widely by city and facility.
Additional sizes
Don’t overlook less common dimensions, like 5 × 7.5 units. These can be perfect for oddly sized items or small furniture when a 5 × 5 is too tight but a 5 × 10 is more than you need.
Pricing information
Storage costs scale with size, location, and features. Larger units are convenient, but you’ll pay for space you don’t use. Measure carefully and match the unit to your inventory to avoid overpaying.
How to choose the right storage unit size
Dialing in the right size starts with a quick plan. A little prep will keep you from renting more space than you need.
- Do an inventory: List everything you’ll store and note bulky items (large pieces of furniture, mattresses, bikes). Group by room so you can estimate how many boxes and how much furniture you actually have.
- Measure key pieces: Measure your largest items and compare against the unit’s door width/height and interior dimensions. Sectionals, headboards, and tall bookcases are common “didn’t fit the door” culprits.
- Create a quick layout: Sketch a top-down view to see how items can Tetris together. Try to leave an aisle so you’re not unloading the whole unit to find one box.
- Use a quote tool: Our moving cost calculator can help estimate space needs and compare options if you’re storing during a move.
Common uses for storage unit sizes
Here’s a quick reference to help you match storage unit sizes to typical items you might store.
- 5 × 5: Seasonal décor, camping gear, a dresser, or several medium boxes. It works great as an extra closet when you’re short on home storage.
- 5 × 10: Mattress set, small sofa or love seat, small appliances, and 10–15 boxes. It’s a strong fit for studio apartments and dorm room off-season storage.
- 10 × 10: Furniture from a one-bedroom apartment, larger appliances, and 20–25 boxes. This size offers wiggle room for awkward items like dining sets or bikes.
Packing and organizing tips
Efficient packing saves both space and money and protects what you love. Here are a few packing tips:
- Pack smart: Use sturdy, uniform boxes so they stack cleanly. Label at least two sides and the top, and number boxes to match an inventory list.
- Maximize vertical space: Place heavy items on the bottom, lighter boxes up high, and use freestanding shelving to avoid crushing cartons.
- Protect valuables: Wrap fragile items, use furniture pads, and keep electronics off the floor. Slipcovers or moving blankets can prevent dust and scuffs.
- Plan access: Leave a center aisle and keep “first-need” items (documents, tools, linens) near the door for quick grabs. It always pays to pack an essentials bag.
Additional features
Consider climate-controlled units for sensitive items like wood furniture, electronics, photos, and instruments.
Strong security—gated access, cameras, bright lighting—can also offer peace of mind. For a deeper look at providers, see our best self-storage companies guide. The Self Storage Association also provides helpful industry resources to help you plan for your storage needs.
Related: Items You Shouldn’t Keep In A Storage Unit
FAQs about storage unit sizes
What is the most popular storage unit size?
The 10 × 10 is the most popular because it fits most one-bedroom apartment setups without being oversized. If you’re between sizes, a 10 × 10 adds flexibility for awkward items and extra boxes. Just remember availability and pricing vary by location.
How do I calculate how much storage space I need?
Build a quick inventory and measure your largest pieces (sofas, mattresses, dining tables). Match your list to common sizes (5 × 5 for boxes and small items, 5 × 10 for studios, 10 × 10 for one-bedrooms). If you’re within 10% of capacity, size up to avoid renting a second unit.
What’s the best way to organize a storage unit?
Use uniform boxes, stack by weight and size with labels facing out, and leave a center aisle. Store frequently used items in front and consider a simple shelf unit to maximize height without crushing boxes.
Do I need climate control?
If you’re storing wood furniture, electronics, instruments, photos, or anything sensitive to temperature and humidity swings—or you live in a humid or very hot/cold climate—climate control is worth the upgrade.
Choose the right storage unit for your needs
Choosing the right storage unit size streamlines your move and protects your belongings. If you’re storing as part of a move, use our moving cost calculator to get personalized quotes and find your perfect fit today.
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