Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit: A Comprehensive Guide
Between discovering your storage unit is too small and needing a last minute upgrade or fearing of paying too much for a unit too large, there’s more that goes into this decision than what is seen on the surface. This comprehensive guide will show you how to make the best decision possible when needing to pick your next storage unit by giving an inside look at the most popular storage unit sizes.
Drawbacks of Picking the Wrong Unit
Overpaying for too much – Renting a unit that is too large or has specific amenities that will go unused can lead to overpaying monthly rental rates.
Cramming items into a storage unit – Many individuals and businesses place the health of their items at risk when they get a storage unit that is too small. Since stored items will be there for prolonged periods, the constant pressure involved in cramming items together can cause stress and make them more prone to breaking. Additionally, if the unit is too full then items may not get enough air circulation, creating the perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew.
Not enough space for growth – Depending on your intention with renting a storage unit, getting a unit too small from the beginning doesn’t allow room to grow. This is especially true for business owners who need to manage a growing inventory and don’t have time to constantly worry about a storage unit’s size not being enough.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Storage Unit Size
1. What Are You Storing?
Your storage unit size ultimately hinges on what you intend on storing and the needs of those items. Some items will need more specific storing conditions than others, especially if they are prone to deteriorating in rough conditions. Additionally, some items like furniture are larger which requires more space, especially because they’re frequently stored with other items like boxes and matching furniture sets.
2. How Often Will You Need to Access Items?
This is another heavy consideration because nothing will create a lag in your workflow than a storage unit that is too small for a bulk amount of items. It can create more problems than anticipated if you have to unpack and repack your storage unit every time you need to get something.
3. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage
Considering the duration of your storage stay can influence the size of the unit you decide to rent. For those only intending on staying only for a short-term can get away with a smaller unit even if it’s a tighter fit. However, anyone that anticipates staying for a longer duration should consider larger storage units for airflow and ease of access.
Storage Unit Size Breakdown
5×5 Storage Unit (25 sq. ft.)
A 5×5 storage unit is the perfect size unit for those who need a small bump in their daily storage capacity. These units are often compared to having an additional closet to store items like seasonal decorations, small furniture like nightstands and chairs, and boxes.
It may seem like a small space, but when items are stacked vertically, a 5×5 can fit a surprising amount of your belongings. These units are ideal for students who need temporary storage for their dorm room essentials, especially over summer break.
People who move are downsizing or live in a limited storage capacity housing like an apartment, who need just a bit more room for their belongings benefit from 5×5 storage units. Additionally, business owners who need a separate location to store documents and other office supplies.
5×10 Storage Unit (50 sq. ft.)
A 5×10 storage unit is one of the most frequently rented units because it often is the perfect size for the average renter’s requirements. These units are often compared to a walk-in closet that can fit contents found inside a small bedroom, several medium-sized boxes, and business storage such as inventory and office supplies.
A 5×10 storage unit can be maximized when larger furniture and other bulkier items are placed in the back and smaller items are stacked in the front. These units are ideal for apartment renters who need more space than what their apartment offers.
Additionally, those who are avid outdoor hobbyists need a place to fit outdoor gear. Small business owners also reap the benefits of a 5×10 storage unit because they can store office storage and furniture.
10×10 Storage Unit (100 sq. ft.)
A 10×10 storage unit offers a spacious area that is about the size of a standard bedroom, which when packed right can store a lot of items. This storage unit is the ideal size for those who need to fit roughly the same amount of contents found inside an entire one bedroom apartment including appliances and furniture.
These units can also comfortably store office supplies and furniture in addition to business inventory management, depending on size and amount. Hobbyists who participate in different seasonal activities like biking, kayaking, snowboarding, and in some cases snowmobiling will benefit from a 10×10 storage unit.
Often, these units are rented to homeowners who temporarily need somewhere to store their belongings when remodeling an area of the home. Business owners anticipating growth will benefit from the extra space of a 10×10 for some business equipment and inventory.
10×15 Storage Unit (150 sq. ft.)
The 10×15 storage unit is a major space maximizer as it is often compared to the size of a large bedroom capable of fitting a lot of household or business items. Typically, these units can fit all of the contents found inside a two-bedroom apartment or small home. These units are best for fitting large appliances like washer/dryers and refrigerators in addition to your home items.
Many businesses benefit from these types of units because of their space, including construction companies needing a place to store additional equipment, tools, or other small construction materials. If drive-up accessible, these units can fit motorcycles and other small motorized vehicles.
10×20 Storage Unit (200 sq. ft.)
A 10×20 storage unit is the largest of the most popular sized storage units that you will find at most self-storage facilities. These storage units are compared to a one-car garage in size which when packed properly can fit the contents of a three-bedroom home. These storage units are one of the most rented sizes for families who are moving or need to temporarily move out of their home due to remodeling.
Businesses with larger inventory or those who have a lot of furniture will benefit the most from a 10×20 storage unit. Often families with multiple children will require the space of a 10×20 storage unit. Also, businesses who are anticipating major growth and want to get ahead of their storage capacity without dealing with the hassle of moving a lot of inventory as it grows will need a 10×20 storage unit.
How to Maximize Your Storage Space
1. Stack Smartly
The size of the unit matters, but how you stack the items in the unit matters just as much. Even a storage unit with an excessive amount of room can become filled quickly if items are stored in a disorderly manner.
The key to maximizing the space in your storage unit is by strategically placing items in specific places. Using the same size boxes will also help fill gaps where items can be stored and ensure the space is being used properly. Heavier boxes and items should be on the ground and lighter items should be stored on top.
2. Use Shelving Units
For those who are using a larger storage unit or businesses storing inventory, shelving units are ideal for maximizing the storage space. Shelving units allow you to safely take advantage of the vertical space inside the storage unit, an often forgotten measurement since all the storage units in the facility are the same height. Heights matter as much as depth and width of the unit and shelving helps you use it all!
3. Disassemble Furniture
Assembled furniture is often too oddly shaped for sensible storing. Different shapes aren’t ideal for making the most of a storage space because the lack of uniformity can take up room that would otherwise fit boxes and other similar shaped items better. Additionally, disassembled furniture is not just better for storing, but easier to transport as well.
Furniture doesn’t need to be completely disassembled, instead opt to take apart the more major components like legs from a table or break the bed frame into smaller, independent pieces instead of just a single item.
4. Label Everything
Labels are the key to your overall organization and how you maximize the space inside your storage unit. When you can easily identify contents inside a box you’ll know the best place to store them and ensure the items inside remain safe.
More sturdier items are best placed on the ground when being stacked for a more solid foundation with lighter, more fragile items stacked on top. Accurate labeling can also help you identify your items when needing to get something out of your storage unit during periodic visits, maximizing the space and your time.
5. Leave a Walkway
A walkway can help you not only easily access contents inside your storage unit, but it forces you to be more intentional about filling your unit. Since the overall key to maximizing the space in your storage unit is intentional packing, keeping in mind a clear walkway to access all the contents will help you make the most of the space.
Climate-Controlled vs. Standard Storage: Do You Need It?
What is Climate Control?
Climate-controlled storage units are sought after, especially in Southern California, because they provide a consistent temperature throughout the year. No matter the weather outside, the items in a climate-controlled unit will remain safe from the repercussions that those of a standard unit might endure.
Since climate-controlled units maintain the same conditions year-round, there’s less concern about humidity build up inside the unit. Humidity is often a major issue for stored items because it provides the perfect breeding ground for mold and moisture to thrive. Climate-controlled units cut through the humidity providing the best conditions possible for stored items
When to Choose It
Climate-controlled units are ideal for more sensitive items that can’t go through changing weather and conditions without facing major deterioration. These items may include antiques and collectibles, especially paper-based and vinyl materials prone to deterioration and warping when wet.
Additionally, electronics can be sensitive to humidity, because moisture can build inside the devices which is never a great combination. Antique furniture may also be susceptible to more rapid deterioration when not stored in the right environment, making them the ideal candidate for climate-controlled storage units.
Anyone planning on storing for longer periods of time than a climate-controlled storage unit should be considered, because these specialized storage units will maintain their integrity the best.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Size
Visit the Facility
You can do all the research online you want, but nothing beats seeing the facility and storage unit in-person. Getting to see the storage unit will put it into a better perspective about which size is right for you, especially if you’re still struggling to decide between two particular sizes.
Still Debating?
If you’re truly stuck between sizes then it’s always best to err on the side of caution and move on size up. It’s better to have more room to grow or, at minimum, allow adequate airflow than to cram your items into something too small.
The dangers of getting a unit too small includes potentially damaging items from cramming things together and encouraging mold growth from having too many items and not enough airflow. If your budget allows, it’s best to go bigger than to not have enough.
Ask for Advice
The storage experts at Nova Storage will help you make the right decision by understanding your specific circumstances and making their recommendations. If you find yourself unable to make a decision, just remember you’re not in it alone!
Choosing the right storage unit size is an important decision that has many factors you must weigh. Picking the right size storage unit will ensure your items are stored in the best conditions possible and can continue to serve you for many years. After doing your initial research, reach out to the storage experts at Nova Storage for a personalized recommendation.
Contact us or easily reserve your unit online and move-in today!
