What Fits in a Storage Unit
If you are choosing a unit size, the practical question is always the same, will it fit on the day, without a last minute scramble.
Use the examples below to pick a sensible starting size. Then check the storage unit size guide for the exact sizes available at your local Henfield Storage branch.
Choose by item groups, not square footage
Square footage is hard to picture. Item groups are easier.
Start with three numbers:
- how many boxes or tubs you have
- how many bulky items you have (sofas, mattresses, wardrobes, bikes, appliances)
- whether you want space to reach items during your stay
If you want access to things during storage, plan for a clear walkway. If you are storing and leaving it alone, you can pack tighter.
Small units (10 to 25 sq ft)
Small units are best for boxes, bags, and a few compact items.
A small unit often fits:
- moving boxes and storage tubs
- suitcases, bags, and folded clothes
- bedside tables, small drawers, dining chairs
- a bike, sometimes two if packed well
- home office items like a desk chair, monitor, and small printer
Small units fill quickly once you add long or awkward shapes. A mattress, a large mirror, or flat pack furniture can push you into the next size.
Medium units (35 to 75 sq ft)
Medium units suit furniture from one room, or anyone who wants a bit of room to load and organise.
A medium unit often fits:
- boxes plus larger furniture pieces
- a sofa or armchair with stacked boxes around it
- a bed frame and mattress if dismantled
- dining table top with chairs
- rugs, shelves, lamps, and other long items along the walls
Packing makes the biggest difference in this range. A dismantled bed and boxed bedding takes far less space than a full frame left intact.
Large units are usually for storing most furniture from a home, or combining several rooms into one space.
A large unit often fits:
- lots of boxes plus multiple large furniture items
- beds and mattresses, wardrobes, drawers, sofas
- appliances stored short term during a move or renovation
- bulky items that cannot be dismantled easily
If you are choosing between large and extra large, check the storage unit size guide and ask your local branch to confirm what makes sense for your item list.
The size mistakes that cause the most stress
Most sizing problems come from the same few issues.
- Bulky items eat space
Sofas, mattresses, bikes, and appliances take up more room than people expect, especially if they are not dismantled or packed upright. - A unit can fit, but still be unusable
If you need access during storage, packing wall to wall makes every visit a job. - Boxes stack, real life items do not
Bags, odd shapes, soft items, and furniture create gaps that waste space. - People add more over time
If you expect to keep adding items, leave yourself some margin. - Room count is not a reliable shortcut
Two similar homes can need different unit sizes depending on furniture and how items are packed
Quick “what fits” table
Use this to choose a realistic starting point. Exact options vary by branch, so confirm with the storage unit size guide.
| If you are storing | A good starting point | What usually changes the size |
|---|---|---|
| Mostly boxes and bags | Small unit | Loose items, awkward shapes, large mirrors |
| Boxes plus some small furniture | Small to medium | Adding a sofa, mattress, or table top |
| Furniture from one room | Medium unit | Large wardrobes, multiple mattresses, bulky desks |
| Furniture from several rooms | Large unit | Items that cannot be dismantled, appliances, bikes |
How to fit more into the same unit
Packing is usually the difference between “just fits” and “needs a bigger unit”.
A few rules that work:
- use sturdy boxes so you can stack safely
- dismantle beds and tables where possible
- keep heavy, square items low and stack lighter boxes on top
- pack soft items into drawers and gaps where suitable
- store long items upright along the walls when safe
- avoid lots of loose bags if you can, they waste space
Choosing your unit size with confidence
If you are close on size, do this:
- write a quick list of your biggest items first
- count boxes separately from bulky items
- decide whether you need access space during storage
- check the storage unit size guide for what your local branch has available
If you want a second pair of eyes on the size, contact your local Henfield Storage branch and we will help you choose the right option.
Related guides
If you’re still deciding on the right unit, these guides can help:
You can also browse all storage advice in our Help & Advice section.
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get startedFAQs
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How do I work out what size storage unit I need?
Start by grouping what you are storing: boxes only, boxes plus furniture, or furniture from a room. Then confirm using the storage unit size guide. If you are unsure, contact your local branch and we will confirm.
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What takes up more space than people expect?
Sofas, mattresses, and anything awkward shaped. They create gaps that stop you stacking properly, which can push you up a size.
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Do boxes really make that much difference?
Yes. Boxes stack cleanly and make better use of space. Loose bags and random shapes tend to waste room.
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Should I dismantle furniture before storage?
If you can, yes. Dismantling beds and tables often saves space and makes loading easier. For packing tips, use our guide on how to pack a self storage unit.
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Is it better to choose a slightly bigger unit to be safe?
Not always. It can be cheaper to pack better than to upsize. Use the storage unit size guide first, and if you are unsure, contact your local branch and we will confirm.
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Where can I see exact unit sizes?
Use the storage unit size guide for the clearest sizing breakdown.
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