Renting a storage unit comes with the responsibility of selecting the right size to match your needs. The reason is simple. You don’t want to pay for more space than you need, but you also don’t want to cram everything into a unit that’s too small. Here are five essential tips to pick the right storage unit size for you:

1. Take an inventory of items you plan to store. Make a list of everything you’ll be putting in the unit, from furniture and appliances, to boxes and smaller items. This will help you determine how much space you need. Your list will also help you stay organized as you make decisions about what to store (or not).
2. Know about storage unit sizes and what typically fits. Keep in mind that the size of a storage unit is typically measured in square feet. A 5’x10′ unit is generally the size of a small walk-in closet, and it can hold boxes, small furniture, and less bulky items. A 10’x10′ unit is about the size of a standard bedroom, and can hold larger furniture, appliances, and larger boxes. Explore the storage unit sizes we offer.
3. Factor in accessibility. While what you plan to store is important, don’t forget to factor in accessibility. Think about how often you will need to get to your stored items. If you anticipate frequent visits to your storage unit, allow extra room for a small pathway. This will make items easier to get at, without having to move everything around.
4. Master the art of packing. How efficient you pack greatly influences the storage unit size you will need. Optimize space by using and packing uniformly sized boxes. Use heavier boxes as a base for stacking other boxes. Efficient packing also helps minimize clutter and maximizes efficiency.
5. Consult with our on-site experts. If you’re not sure what size unit you need, or how best to pack, don’t hesitate to call or ask our friendly staff. They will help you choose the right size based on what you plan to store, and provide guidance on how to organize your items to maximize space.

If possible, it’s better to choose a slightly larger unit than to cram everything into a smaller one. This will give you some room to add items, if needed, and prevent damage from overcrowding.