Putting belongings into storage is a great way to facilitate the moving process or declutter a home that’s tight on space, but choosing a unit can feel overwhelming. That’s because there are so many different sizes available, and many people struggle to determine which one they need. Consider the following factors to ensure you rent the right one.

How to Choose a Storage Unit Size

1. Assess the Inventory

Gather all the items you plan to store and take measurements of everything. This will give you a general idea of the bare minimum size you’ll need. If it’s just some holiday decorations or a few boxes, a 5-by-5 foot unit is usually enough.

If the contents include furniture and many boxes, consider a 5-by-15 foot or 10-by-10 foot because these are the sizes of a studio apartment or large bedroom, respectively. For larger solutions, such as storing an entire house or vehicles, it’s best to get a 10-by-25 foot or 10-by-30 foot unit.

2. Determine Usage

The size and number of items you plan on storing give you a jumping-off point, but another important factor is how you plan on using the unit and for how long. People who are storing seasonal items that only need to be accessed once or twice a year can go with a 5-by-5 foot or 5-by-10 foot unit to accommodate their contents. 

However, if the space will be visited more regularly or used for storing a variety of items, a 10-by-20 foot or 10-by-25 foot unit is a better choice. These sizes will allow you to set up aisles or shelves so everything can easily be taken out, moved, or added during the rental agreement.

3. Acknowledge Storage Requirements

What you are storing also plays a part because some belongings require more precautions than others. When storing durable items that aren’t at risk of breaking, it’s possible to get a smaller unit and fill it up by stacking the boxes. However, certain pieces need to stand alone to avoid being damaged.

A mattress, for example, should always be stored flat on the ground to protect its structural integrity. So even though it might fit into a 5-by-10 foot unit, it’s often better to rent a 10-by-10 foot space if you plan on storing anything with it. Similarly, you shouldn’t stack electronics on top of each other, so always get a unit that is one size larger than spatially required.

 

No matter what size storage solution you need, the experts at IncaAztec Self Storage in Hudson, OH, can help. They’ll work with you to understand your needs, and they offer a variety of sizes with security and temperature control capabilities. Call (330) 650-2626 to speak to a consultant, or learn more online.