Storage Unit Size Calculator
Determine what size storage unit you need based on furniture and box inventory. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer
Formula
Required Volume = Total Item Volume / Packing Efficiency (0.70)
Where Total Item Volume is the sum of cubic feet for all furniture, appliances, and boxes, and Packing Efficiency accounts for wasted space due to irregular shapes, access aisles, and stacking limitations. The calculator then matches the required volume to the smallest standard storage unit that fits.
Worked Examples
Example 1: One-Bedroom Apartment Storage
Problem:You need to store: 1 queen bed, 1 sofa, 1 dresser, 1 table, 2 chairs, 10 small boxes, 5 medium boxes, and 3 large boxes.
Solution:Bed: 70 cu ft | Sofa: 60 cu ft | Dresser: 30 cu ft | Table: 25 cu ft\n2 chairs: 20 cu ft | 10 small boxes: 15 cu ft | 5 medium boxes: 15 cu ft | 3 large boxes: 18 cu ft\nTotal volume: 253 cu ft\nWith 70% packing efficiency: 253 / 0.70 = 361 cu ft needed\nRecommended unit: 5x10 (400 cu ft capacity)
Result:A 5x10 storage unit is recommended, estimated at approximately $85/month.
Example 2: Three-Bedroom House Storage
Problem:Store 3 beds, 2 sofas, 4 dressers, 2 tables, 8 chairs, 2 large appliances, 20 small boxes, 15 medium boxes, and 10 large boxes.
Solution:3 beds: 210 cu ft | 2 sofas: 120 cu ft | 4 dressers: 120 cu ft | 2 tables: 50 cu ft\n8 chairs: 80 cu ft | 2 appliances: 80 cu ft | 20 small: 30 cu ft | 15 medium: 45 cu ft | 10 large: 60 cu ft\nTotal volume: 795 cu ft\nWith 70% packing efficiency: 795 / 0.70 = 1,136 cu ft needed\nRecommended unit: 10x15 (1,200 cu ft capacity)
Result:A 10x15 storage unit is recommended, estimated at approximately $175/month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size storage unit do I need for a one-bedroom apartment?
A one-bedroom apartment typically requires a 5x10 or 10x10 storage unit depending on how much furniture you have. A 5x10 unit provides 50 square feet and about 400 cubic feet of usable space, which is usually enough for a bed, a small sofa, a dresser, a table, and about 15 to 20 boxes. If you have a larger sofa, multiple dressers, or several appliances, you should step up to a 10x10 unit with 100 square feet and 800 cubic feet. The rule of thumb is that a 5x10 handles a studio or small one-bedroom, while a 10x10 is better for a fully furnished one-bedroom apartment.
How is storage unit size measured and priced?
Storage units are measured by their floor dimensions in feet, such as 5x5, 5x10, 10x10, 10x15, and 10x20. The ceiling height is typically 8 feet, so a 10x10 unit has 800 cubic feet of total volume. Pricing varies by location, climate control, and unit size, but generally ranges from $50 per month for a 5x5 unit to $300 or more for a 10x30 unit. Climate-controlled units cost 25 to 50 percent more than standard units. Urban areas tend to charge higher rates than suburban or rural locations. Many facilities offer first-month-free promotions and discounts for prepaying several months in advance.
Should I get a climate-controlled storage unit?
Climate-controlled storage units maintain temperatures between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and regulate humidity levels. You should choose climate control if you are storing wooden furniture, leather goods, electronics, musical instruments, photographs, artwork, or important documents. Extreme heat and cold can warp wood, crack leather, damage electronic components, and cause mold growth on paper and fabric. If you live in an area with hot summers, cold winters, or high humidity, climate control is strongly recommended for long-term storage exceeding three months. The extra cost of 25 to 50 percent is usually worthwhile to protect valuable belongings from temperature and moisture damage.
How do I maximize space in my storage unit?
Start by placing the largest and heaviest items against the back wall first, such as sofas stood on end, mattresses, and large appliances. Disassemble furniture like bed frames, tables, and bookshelves to save significant space. Stack boxes from heaviest on the bottom to lightest on top, and create a center aisle so you can access items in the back without moving everything. Use uniform box sizes when possible for easier stacking. Fill dresser drawers, appliances like washers and dryers, and any hollow spaces with smaller items and linens. Place frequently needed items near the front door of the unit for easy access without disturbing everything else.
References
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer · Editorial policy