Choosing the right storage unit size can save you money and make moving, organizing, or storing your belongings much easier.
A unit that is too small may leave you struggling to fit everything inside. A unit that is too large means paying for space you do not need.
This storage unit size guide explains the most common options and what you can typically store in each one.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
The right storage unit depends on three main things:
- How many items you need to store
- The size of your furniture and boxes
- How often you need access to your belongings
Before renting a unit, make a quick list of everything you plan to store. Large items such as couches, mattresses, appliances, shelving, and dining tables should be considered first.
You can then estimate how much additional room your smaller boxes will require.
5x5 Storage Unit
A 5x5 storage unit is one of the smallest options available.
It works well for people who need extra space for a limited number of belongings.
What fits in a 5x5 storage unit?
You may be able to store:
- Small boxes
- Seasonal decorations
- Sports equipment
- Small furniture
- Clothing
- Office supplies
- Personal belongings
A 5x5 unit can be a useful option if you are clearing out a closet, small office, or part of an apartment.
5x10 Storage Unit
A 5x10 storage unit provides more room while still being suitable for smaller storage needs.
What fits in a 5x10 storage unit?
Depending on the size of your belongings, it may hold:
- A mattress and bed frame
- Small couches or chairs
- Several moving boxes
- Small appliances
- Bikes
- Desks
- Seasonal items
This size can work well for someone moving out of a studio apartment or storing furniture during a renovation.
10x10 Storage Unit
A 10x10 storage unit is a popular middle-ground option.
It gives you enough room for larger furniture while still keeping your belongings organized and accessible.
What fits in a 10x10 storage unit?
A typical 10x10 unit may hold:
- Bedroom furniture
- Living room furniture
- Mattresses
- Tables and chairs
- Appliances
- Boxes and containers
- Small business inventory
If you are moving from a one-bedroom apartment or completing a home renovation, this size may be worth considering.
10x15 Storage Unit
A 10x15 storage unit gives you considerably more space for furniture, appliances, and packed boxes.
It can be suitable for:
- Multi-room household contents
- Large furniture
- Appliances
- Moving boxes
- Business equipment
- Inventory
- Renovation storage
The extra room also makes it easier to leave a walkway through the unit if you need regular access.
10x20 Storage Unit
A 10x20 unit is designed for larger storage requirements.
It may be suitable when moving homes, completing a major renovation, or storing business equipment and inventory.
What can you store in a 10x20 unit?
Depending on the layout, you may be able to store:
- Furniture from several rooms
- Large appliances
- Beds and mattresses
- Dining room furniture
- Boxes
- Commercial inventory
- Equipment
For larger storage requirements, it is usually better to speak with the storage facility before booking so you can confirm the available space.
How to Estimate the Storage Space You Need
You do not need to measure every box before renting a storage unit.
Start by grouping your belongings into categories.
For example:
Large furniture: couches, beds, tables, cabinets
Appliances: refrigerators, washers, dryers
Medium items: chairs, shelves, bikes
Small items: boxes, containers, decorations
Once you know your largest items, it becomes much easier to estimate your total storage needs.
You should also consider whether your furniture can be safely disassembled. Removing table legs, shelving, and bed frames can reduce the amount of floor space required.
Leave Space to Access Your Belongings
Using every inch of your storage unit may sound efficient, but it can create problems later.
If you expect to visit your unit regularly, leave a small walkway between your belongings.
Place items you may need frequently near the front of the unit and long-term storage items toward the back.
Clear plastic containers or clearly labelled boxes can also make items easier to find.
Small Storage Unit vs Larger Storage Unit
When deciding between two sizes, think about how long you will use the unit.
A smaller unit may work when:
- You have mostly boxes
- Furniture can be stacked safely
- You do not need frequent access
- Storage is temporary
A larger unit may make more sense when:
- You have bulky furniture
- You are storing several rooms of belongings
- You need regular access
- You are storing business inventory
- You expect to add more items later
The goal is not simply to choose the cheapest unit. It is to choose a unit that gives your belongings enough room without paying for unnecessary space.
Looking for Storage Units in Richmond?
If you need extra space for your home, move, renovation, or business, General Storage All offers storage options designed for different needs.
Explore our storage units in Richmond or view our available storage units to find an option that works for you.
Not sure which size to choose? Contact our team and we can help you compare available units.
