Whether you’re decluttering your space, moving, or downsizing, storage units can be your most ideal option to store that extra stuff. But it’s not always easy to know what storage unit size you need. This is where we’d like to help you out!

In this article, we’re going to share the most common storage unit sizes and give you some tried-and-tested strategies for picking the right storage unit size for your needs. Now, let’s get started! 

Storage Unit Sizes and Costs

Nowadays, there are many storage facilities you can choose from. But don’t worry! The standard unit sizes are roughly the same in all of them. Here are some typical self-storage unit sizes to help you understand how much space and budget you might need:  

5’x10’ Storage Units

• Storage space: 50 sq ft
• Average cost: $40 – $100

5’x10’ storage units are considered small storage units and they provide around 50 square feet of space. They are large enough for the contents of a single bedroom or a small studio apartment, though it might be packed tight, so you may need to consider a slightly larger self-storage. Again, it all depends on your storage needs and how much stuff you need to store. The average cost of a storage unit depends on factors such as location, storage facility, or demand. But in general, the cost of 5’x10’ units typically ranges from $40 to $100 per month.

8’x10′ Storage Units

• Storage space: 80 sq ft
• Average cost: $60 – $150

8’x10′ storage units provide approximately 80 square feet of storage space, which is roughly equivalent to the size of a large walk-in closet. They are quite versatile, as they can accommodate items such as mattresses, box springs, and small furniture like nightstands, chairs, and drawers. These medium-sized units are ideal for storing seasonal items and providing extra space for households or businesses without requiring a large commitment. Their average cost is usually between $60 to $150 per month.

8’x20′ Storage Units

• Storage space: 160 sq ft
• Average cost: $100 – $250

8’x20′ storage units provide approximately 160 square feet of storage space. This is typically sufficient for storing items of a two-bedroom house. For example, you can comfortably store large appliances such as a fridge, washer, and dryer, along with three mattress sets, patio furniture, bookcases, couches, and assorted boxes. For these units, prices typically range from $100 to $250 per month.

8’x40′ Storage Units

• Storage space: 320 sq ft
• Average cost: $200 – $400

8’x40′ storage units offer 320 square feet of room and are perfect for homeowners or a small business. They can easily fit the contents of a three-to-four-bedroom house, including furniture like couches, armchairs, dining sets, appliances, entertainment units, bookcases, and multiple mattresses. When it comes to the average cost of 8’x40′ storage units, it can vary from $200 to $400 per month. 

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?

Now that you understand a little better the most common unit sizes, you might be wondering which one is the right one for you. Well, that depends on several factors. Our short step-by-step guide will help you quickly decide on what size storage space you need. 

Step 1: Make a Detailed Inventory of Items

Before you start thinking about anything else, it’s important first to take an inventory of the items you plan to store. An even better idea is to write your list down so that it’s easier for you to refer back to it later or when you want to get your stuff back later on. Count how many boxes you have and jot that down as well. This inventory should cover all your stuff, from small items to bigger furniture pieces. 

Step 2: Double-check your home storage options

Once you’ve figured out what you want to store, it might be a good idea to consider your existing home storage options. If you already have enough space in your garage, basement, or attic, you don’t have to opt for external storage solutions. At least not for all your belongings. You can be strategic about your self-storage and maximize the space you already have available.  

Step 3: Measure Your Belongings

Then, it’s time to thoroughly measure your belongings before you choose a storage unit. Aim to get good measurements of length, width, and height for each item (or box) that you want to store. This will help you understand the square feet each item takes up so that you know what size storage unit you will need. 

Here’s an example of how you can count how much space an item takes up. Just multiply its length (in feet) by its width (in feet). This gives you the area in square feet. For instance, if you have a rug that is 5 feet long and 4 feet wide, you multiply the length (5 feet) by the width (4 feet), and you get 20 square feet.

Step 4: Pick a small, medium, or large storage unit size

The final step is to pick the size of a storage unit you will need. Storage facilities generally have three different categories of sizes: small units, medium units, and large units. Small units can store up to 50 square feet of stuff, medium units can hold a maximum of 150 square feet, and larger units have space for as much as 300 square feet.

MyStorageBox.com storage unit size chart

Storage Unit Size	Dimensions (ft)	Approximate Square Feet	Typical Contents
Small to Medium Storage Units	8×10	80	Mattress and box spring, Small furniture items (nightstands, chairs, drawers), Records, Extra supplies, Small office furniture
Medium Storage Units	8×20	160	Two-to-three-bedroom house contents, Fridge, Washer and dryer, Mattress sets, Dining room set, Bookcases, Couches, Boxes
Large Storage Units	8×40	320	Three-to-four-bedroom house contents, Couches, Oversized armchair, Dining room set, Fridge, Washer and dryer, Entertainment nook, Bookcases, Mattress sets

Storage Unit Size FAQ

What is the most common storage unit size?

The 10’x10′ storage unit is the most common storage unit size mainly because it’s very versatile. This unit is about half the size of a bedroom and is often used for short-term storage during relocation or for decluttering purposes.

How big of a storage unit do I need for a one-bedroom apartment?

You need a 5’x10′ storage unit for a one-bedroom apartment. Units this size can hold furniture pieces like a queen-sized mattress, couch, or bike. 

How big of a storage unit do I need for a two-bedroom apartment?

A 10’x10′ is the ideal storage size for a two-bedroom apartment. It can store an entire family room, including a sofa, chairs, coffee table, and bookshelves. 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many different options of self-storage available so it’s all about thinking strategically if you want to get the best price for your storage. Planning thoroughly and doing your research goes a long way. And given the fact you’re carefully reading this size guide right now, it’s safe to say you’re on the right track!

We always recommend talking to your storage provider about your needs and consulting with them if you’re unsure which storage size you need so that you can make an informed decision. If you’re looking for self-storage in Ponca City, OK, you can count on us at My Storage Box. We offer affordable, easy access, and secure storage units. You can contact us 24/7, 7 days a week, and we’d be happy to assist you!