Storage Unit Size Guide – How to Find the Perfect Size for Your Needs
In 2023, self-storage operators in the UK generated nearly £1 billion in revenue. That’s a lot of storage units! But if you’re a first-time renter, the first question you’ll probably ask yourself is: What size storage unit do I need?
That’s where this storage unit size guide comes in. We’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right size, break down each option, explain what fits inside, and help you select the perfect unit based on your needs.
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How to choose the right storage unit size
No matter what size storage unit you need, the goal is always the same: find the perfect fit without paying for space you don’t need.
To make sure you get it right, follow these practical steps:
Step 1: Take an Inventory of Your Belongings
First, you’ll want a clear idea of what you plan to store in your storage unit. The best way to take stock of your belongings is by physically going through your items.
After listing list your items, group them by category, i.e furniture, paperwork, etc. During this process you can also take quick photos so you remember what’s packed.
Step 2: Measure your larger items
Next, measure bulky items like sofas, beds, and wardrobes to ensure they’ll fit in your storage unit. If possible, disassemble them and store screws and bolts in labelled bags, taping them to the main pieces for easy reassembly.
Step 3: Consider Stacking and Vertical Space
To maximise your unit’s vertical space, you can use strong stackable bins, or boxes and and even install shelving units. These are handle for storing lightweight items like books, and small appliances.
Step 4: Think About Accessibility
It’s tempting to fill every corner of your storage unit. But if you do, you’ll have trouble accessing and retrieving your items later.
To keep your storage unit accessible, leave a pathway between rows of boxes for easier navigation. You can also store essentials at the front, like seasonal decorations or business inventory, for easier access and retrieval.
Step 5: Choose the Right Storage Unit
Select the right type based on what you’re storing:
- Climate-Controlled Units – Ideal for sensitive items like electronics, wood, and documents.
- Drive-Up Units – Perfect for bulky items with easy vehicle access.
- Indoor Storage Units – Secure and weatherproof for valuables.
- Outdoor Container Storage – Cost-effective for vehicles and equipment, but not climate-controlled.
Step 6: Plan for Future Needs
Storage needs can change, so consider a slightly bigger unit than you currently need. It’s cheaper and saves the hassle of upgrading later.
Pro Tip: A bit of extra space now can prevent the cost and stress of moving everything again.
Storage Unit Sizes Explained
Now that you know how to choose the right storage unit, let’s walk through the standard size ranges, what they fit, and how much space you really get:
10–15 sq. ft.
10–15 sq. ft. storage units are the smallest and most budget-friendly options available. They range from the size of a tall gym locker to a utility cupboard, measuring approximately 5×2 ft to 5×3 ft.
Stores approximately:
- 2–3 sports bags
- 1–2 medium boxes
Perfect for students or anyone living in compact spaces, these units are ideal for storing books, laptops or other small personal items.
25–35 sq. ft.
25–35 sq. ft. storage unit sizes range from a small walk-in closet to a garden shed. They’re ideal for smaller items that can quickly take over your home, such as seasonal decorations, suitcases, or boxes.
25 SQ FT (5ft x 5ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Foldable Bed Frame (dismantled)
- 2 Travel Bags or Suitcases
- 1 Flat-Screen TV
- 5–6 Storage Bins
- 2 Framed Mirrors or Artwork
35 SQ FT (6ft x 7ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Work Desk (dismantled)
- 1 Office Chair
- 1 Medium Bookshelf
- 5–6 Storage Boxes
- 1 Tall Cabinet
50–75 sq. ft.
50–75 sq. ft. storage units range from the size of a large walk-in closet to a small studio space, typically measuring 5×10 ft to 5×15 ft. They comfortably fit the contents of a one-bedroom flat or a large bedroom setup, including furniture, boxes, and appliances.
50 SQ FT (10ft x 5ft) stores approximately:
- 1 King-Sized Bed
- 1 Wardrobe
- 1 Chest of Drawers
- 1 Dressing Table
- 18 Boxes
75 SQ FT (10ft x 7.5ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Three-Seat Sofa
- 1 King Bed
- 1 Double Fridge Freezer
- 1 Double Cabinet
- 1 Wardrobe and 25 Boxes
100–125 sq. ft.
A 100–125 sq. ft. storage unit is comparable to a single car garage or two transit vans, typically measuring 10×10 ft to 12.5×10 ft. These units comfortably hold the contents of a small two-bedroom flat, with plenty of vertical space due to the standard 8 ft. ceilings.
100 SQ FT (10ft x 10ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Three-Seater Sofa and Two Chairs
- 1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds
- 2 Wardrobes and 2 Large Cabinets
- 1 Double Fridge Freezer and Washing Machine
- 40 Boxes
125 SQ FT (12.5ft x 10ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Three-Seater Sofa and Two Chairs
- 3 King Size Beds
- 3 Wardrobes and 2 Large Cabinets
- 1 Double Fridge Freezer, Washing Machine, and Tumble Dryer
150–175 sq. ft.
150–175 sq. ft. storage units span between 15 ft x 10 ft to 10 ft x 17.5 ft, providing 1,200 to 1,750 cubic feet of space, depending on ceiling height. This range is equivalent to one and a half single-car garages up to a compact double garage.
These sizes can easily fit the contents of a two-bedroom apartment up to a four-bedroom house. As such, it’s a popular choice among businesses who need to store inventory or larger pieces of equipment.
150 SQ FT (15ft x 10ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Three-Seater Sofa and Two Chairs
- 4 King-Sized Beds
- 3 Wardrobes and 2 Large Cabinets
- 1 Double Freezer, Washing Machine, and Tumble Dryer
- 50 Boxes and contents of a garage
175 SQ FT (17ft x 10ft) stores approximately:
- 1 Three-Seater Sofa and Two Chairs
- 3 King Beds and 2 Wardrobes
- Contents of a home office
- 1 Double Freezer, Washing Machine, and Tumble Dryer
- 50 Boxes and the contents of a shed
200 sq. ft
A 200 sq. ft. storage unit is approximately the size of a double car garage, providing a spacious 1,600 to 1,800 cubic feet of storage space. This size can comfortably store the entire contents of a four to five-bedroom house.
Due to its generous space, it’s also commonly used as a workspace for small businesses or artists, easily accommodating workbenches, shelves, and equipment, while still leaving enough room to move around.
200 SQ FT (20ft x 10ft) stores approximately:
- 2 Three-Seater Sofas and Two Chairs
- 4 King-Sized Beds
- 4 Wardrobes and 3 Large Cabinets
- 1 Double Fridge Freezer, Washing Machine, and Tumble Dryer
- 60 Boxes
- Contents of a home office (desks, chairs, and storage cabinets)
- Workbenches and shelves for tools or equipment
What Not to Do When Choosing Your Storage Unit Size
Choosing the right storage unit size can feel straightforward, but it’s easy to make missteps that cost you time and money. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when selecting a storage size:
Guessing Instead of Measuring
Estimating space can lead to underestimating how much room you need. Sofas, beds, and appliances take up more vertical space than expected. Instead of measuring everything, focus on the largest or most oddly shaped items.
Only Considering Floor Space
Storage units are often 8 to 10 feet high, giving you more than just floor area. Store longer items vertically, like surfboards or bed frames, and stack boxes up to the ceiling to maximise space.
Skipping Shelving or Stacking Efficiently
Shelving helps organise smaller items without crushing them under heavy boxes. It also keeps things accessible, so you’re not digging through piles when you need something.
Not Visualising the Space
It’s hard to picture how your items fit in a “5×10” space. Visit the unit before renting to get a better sense of how everything will fit. Henfield Storage lets you do this beforehand.
Assuming All Units Are the Same
Not all units are identical—some have pillars, narrow doors, or lower ceilings. Always check the layout to ensure it suits your needs.
Not Sure Which Storage Unit Size is Right? Let Henfield Help!
With over 40 years of experience serving self storage in London and Brighton, our team knows exactly how to find the right storage solution for your needs—quickly and easily.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which storage unit size is the most popular in the UK?
According to Cushman & Wakefield’s 2024 Self Storage Annual Report, 10–50 sq ft units are the most popular in the UK, accounting for 43% of business customers and 33% of domestic customers.
What is the smallest storage unit size available?
Typically, the smallest storage units range from 10–25 sq ft, ideal for storing boxes, books, and seasonal decorations.
What is the largest storage unit size available?
At Henfield Storage, the largest unit is 200 sq ft, perfect for the contents of a large home, business inventory, or bulky equipment.
Can I upgrade or downgrade my storage unit size?
At Henfield Storage, you can upgrade or downgrade anytime with no additional fees.
What size storage unit for a 1-bedroom house or apartment?
A 75 sq ft unit is ideal, fitting furniture, appliances, and 20–30 boxes. If you have fewer items, 50 sq ft might be enough.
What size storage unit for a 2-bedroom house?
A 100–125 sq ft unit is recommended, with enough space for furniture, appliances, and boxes. Larger items might require the 125 sq ft option.
What size storage unit for a 3-bedroom house?
A 150–175 sq ft unit is perfect, comfortably fitting beds, sofas, wardrobes, and more. If you have outdoor furniture or extra appliances, consider 175 sq ft.