Why Estimate Storage Space?

Renting a storage unit is common when moving, downsizing, or clearing seasonal items from your home. Picking a unit that's too small leads to frustration, while an oversized unit wastes money each month. Our Self Storage Unit Size Calculator helps you gauge how much space you need by considering the number of moving boxes and large furniture pieces. While every household is different, this tool provides a starting point so you can shop for storage with confidence.

Storage facilities typically offer units in standard sizes such as 5×5 feet, 5×10 feet, 10×10 feet, and larger. The ceiling height may vary, but most units are around 8 to 10 feet tall. The volume you need depends on how efficiently you pack and whether you plan to access items frequently. A little planning goes a long way toward fitting everything inside and still having room to walk if necessary.

How the Calculator Works

For simplicity, we assume each standard moving box requires about 2 cubic feet of space when stacked. Large furniture items—like couches, dressers, or mattresses—take up roughly 50 cubic feet each. Multiply the number of boxes by 2 and furniture pieces by 50, then add the results. The calculator compares the total cubic footage to common unit sizes and recommends the smallest size that fits.

For example, 20 boxes and two large furniture pieces equal 20×2 + 2×50 = 140 cubic feet. A 5×5 unit offers about 200 cubic feet (5 × 5 × 8), so it would be a snug but workable fit. If you have oddly shaped furniture or want aisle space to reach boxes in the back, consider stepping up to the next size. Many facilities allow you to upgrade later if needed, though availability can vary.

Packing Efficiently

To make the most of your storage unit, use sturdy boxes that stack well without crushing. Disassemble furniture when possible and store hardware in labeled bags. Fill drawers with lighter items to save box space, and use protective covers for mattresses and upholstered pieces. If you plan to access your belongings regularly, leave a narrow walkway down the middle of the unit. Otherwise, stack items tightly from floor to ceiling to maximize cubic footage.

Keep an inventory of what you store so you can find items later without unpacking everything. Label each box with its contents and the room it came from. Consider placing frequently used items near the front of the unit for easy retrieval. Good organization reduces the time you spend digging through piles and helps you avoid renting a larger unit than necessary.

Understanding Unit Sizes

A 5×5 unit is ideal for small loads—think a few pieces of furniture and several boxes. A 5×10 unit fits the contents of a studio apartment, while a 10×10 can handle a typical one-bedroom home. For multi-bedroom homes or vehicle storage, you may need 10×20 or larger. Climate-controlled units cost more but protect delicate items like electronics, photographs, and wooden furniture from temperature extremes and humidity.

Example Calculation

Let's say you have 35 boxes and three large furniture items. That's 35×2 + 3×50 = 220 cubic feet. A 5×10 unit offers around 400 cubic feet, providing enough space with room to maneuver. If your storage facility only has 10×10 units available, you'll have extra room for holiday decorations or future items.

Conclusion

Estimating your storage needs ahead of time prevents headaches and unnecessary costs. Use our calculator to gauge the right unit size for your belongings, then follow the packing tips to keep everything organized. With a little planning, you'll find a storage solution that keeps your possessions safe and accessible until you need them again.