The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Self Storage Unit Size
Posted on October 11, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Picking the perfect self-storage unit size can feel like a daunting task. Too small, and you’re left playing a frustrating game of storage Tetris. Too large, and you’re paying for space you don’t need. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the ideal storage unit size for your needs.
Why Size Matters in Self Storage
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of choosing a storage unit, let’s talk about why getting the size right is so important. It’s not just about finding a space that fits all your stuff – although that’s certainly part of it. The right size storage unit can save you money, time, and a whole lot of headaches.
Imagine trying to cram all your belongings into a unit that’s too small. You’d spend hours trying to make everything fit, only to realize you can’t close the door. Or picture renting a unit that’s way too big for your needs. Sure, you’d have plenty of space, but you’d also be throwing money away on unused square footage.
The goal is to find that Goldilocks zone – a unit that’s just right. It should comfortably fit all your items while still allowing you to access them easily. And ideally, it won’t leave you with a bunch of wasted space.
Assessing Your Storage Needs
The first step in choosing the right storage unit size is to take stock of what you need to store. This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this crucial step and end up with a unit that doesn’t meet their needs.
Start by making a list of all the items you plan to store. Don’t just think about the big stuff like furniture – remember to account for boxes, small appliances, and any oddly shaped items. Once you have your list, try to group similar items together. This will help you visualize how they might fit in a storage unit.
Next, consider how you’ll need to access your stored items. Will you need to get to certain things frequently? If so, you’ll want to factor in some extra space for pathways. On the other hand, if you’re storing items long-term and don’t plan to access them often, you might be able to pack things more tightly.
It’s also worth thinking about any future storage needs. Are you likely to add more items to your unit over time? If so, you might want to size up a bit to accommodate future growth.
Common Storage Unit Sizes and What They Can Hold
Now that you’ve assessed your needs, let’s look at some common storage unit sizes and what they typically hold. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines – how much you can fit will depend on how efficiently you pack and the specific dimensions of your items.
5×5 (25 square feet)
This is the smallest standard unit size, often compared to a small closet. It’s perfect for storing a few boxes, small furniture items, or seasonal decorations. You might be surprised at how much you can fit in here with smart packing.
5×10 (50 square feet)
Think of this as a large walk-in closet. It can typically hold the contents of a small studio apartment, including a queen-sized mattress set, a sofa, chair, chest of drawers, and several boxes.
10×10 (100 square feet)
This size is equivalent to half of a standard one-car garage. It can usually accommodate the furnishings of a one-bedroom apartment, including major appliances like a washer, dryer, and refrigerator.
10×15 (150 square feet)
Moving up in size, this unit can typically hold the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or house. You’ll have room for larger furniture pieces, appliances, and plenty of boxes.
10×20 (200 square feet)
This is about the size of a standard one-car garage. It’s suitable for storing the contents of a three-bedroom house, including large furniture items and major appliances.
10×30 (300 square feet)
This largest standard size is equivalent to a large one-and-a-half-car garage. It can hold the contents of a fully furnished four to five-bedroom house.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Unit Size
While the size guides above are helpful, there are several other factors you should consider when choosing your storage unit size:
Item Dimensions
It’s not just about square footage – you need to think about the height and shape of your items too. A unit might have enough floor space, but if you have tall furniture or appliances, you’ll need to make sure the ceiling height is sufficient.
Stacking Potential
How well can you stack your items? Boxes and sturdy furniture can often be stacked to make use of vertical space, allowing you to fit more into a smaller unit. However, fragile or oddly shaped items might limit your stacking options.
Frequency of Access
If you’ll need to access your items regularly, you’ll want to leave room for pathways. This might mean sizing up to the next unit size to ensure you can comfortably move around and reach everything.
Climate Control Needs
If you’re storing sensitive items that require climate control, your options might be more limited. Not all unit sizes are always available with climate control, so this could influence your choice.
Future Needs
Are you likely to need more storage space in the future? It might be more cost-effective in the long run to choose a slightly larger unit now rather than having to move to a bigger unit later.
Tips for Maximizing Your Storage Space
Once you’ve chosen your unit size, you’ll want to make the most of the space you have. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
- Use uniform box sizes when possible. This makes stacking easier and more stable.
- Disassemble furniture if possible. Take apart bed frames, table legs, and other items to save space.
- Use vertical space. Stack boxes and use tall shelving units to make the most of your unit’s height.
- Create an inventory system. Label boxes clearly and keep a list of what’s where. This will save you time and frustration later.
- Pack strategically. Put items you’ll need to access frequently near the front of the unit.
- Use vacuum bags for soft items like clothing and bedding. These can significantly reduce the space these items take up.
- Fill hollow items. Store smaller items inside larger ones, like putting boxes inside a refrigerator or drawers.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Storage Unit Size
As we wrap up, let’s talk about some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Underestimating your needs: It’s better to have a little extra space than not enough.
- Forgetting about access: Remember, you need to be able to get to your stuff!
- Ignoring ceiling height: Don’t just focus on square footage – remember to consider the vertical space too.
- Not planning for the future: Think about whether your storage needs might change over time.
- Assuming all units are the same: Dimensions can vary between facilities, so always check the specific measurements of the unit you’re considering.
How Attic Plus Can Help
Choosing the right storage unit size doesn’t have to be a guessing game. At Attic Plus, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect storage solution for your needs. Our experienced staff can guide you through the selection process, taking into account all the factors we’ve discussed in this guide.
We offer a wide range of unit sizes to accommodate everything from a few boxes to the contents of a large house. And if you’re not sure what size you need, we’re happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your specific items and storage goals.
But our service doesn’t stop at helping you choose a unit. We also offer flexible rental terms, so you’re not locked into a size that no longer meets your needs. If you find you need more or less space, we’ll work with you to find a better fit.
At Attic Plus, we understand that your storage needs are unique. That’s why we offer more than just space – we provide peace of mind. With our secure facilities, convenient access hours, and dedicated customer service, you can rest easy knowing your belongings are in good hands.
Remember, the right storage unit is out there – and we’re here to help you find it. Whether you’re storing a few seasonal items or the contents of your entire home, Attic Plus has the perfect solution for you. Get in touch with us today, and let’s find your ideal storage space together.