May
19 2026

Storage Unit Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Unit for Your Needs

Posted under Self Storage

Choosing the right storage unit size can feel overwhelming when you are faced with a list of numbers like 5x5, 10x10, or 10x20. This guide breaks down every common size by exact square footage, cubic footage, and real-world items that actually fit. Whether you are storing a few boxes, a studio apartment, or a three-bedroom home, you can quickly match your belongings to the correct unit and reserve it instantly.

Understanding Storage Unit Measurements

Storage units are listed by their length and width in feet. For example, a 5x5 unit is five feet wide and five feet deep, giving 25 square feet of floor space. The total cubic footage includes the ceiling height. Most storage units are 8 feet tall, though some facilities offer 10-foot ceilings. Cubic footage is a better indicator of volume because you can stack boxes to the ceiling. Always measure larger items like mattresses and sofas before choosing a unit so you can estimate how much space they will take up.

Common Storage Unit Sizes

 

5x5 Storage Unit (25 sq ft, 200 cu ft)

A 5x5 unit is similar in size to a small walk-in closet. With 25 square feet and 200 cubic feet, it can hold a twin or full-size mattress, a few boxes, and small furniture pieces like a nightstand or a lamp. This size is ideal for seasonal decorations, off-season clothing, or belongings from a dorm room. If you need to store just the essentials, a 5x5 is a budget-friendly start. Browse 5x5 storage units on EZstorit.

 

5x10 Storage Unit (50 sq ft, 400 cu ft)

A 5x10 unit offers 50 square feet and 400 cubic feet, roughly the size of a studio apartment. It can fit a queen-size mattress, a small sofa, a dresser, and several boxes. People use this size when moving out of a one-room apartment or when supplementing the storage of a larger home. The extra length compared to a 5x5 lets you store longer items like a twin bed frame or a desk. Find 5x10 storage units near you.

 

10x10 Storage Unit (100 sq ft, 800 cu ft)

With 100 square feet and 800 cubic feet, a 10x10 unit is about the size of a small bedroom. It can comfortably hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or two small bedrooms. Typical items include a queen or king mattress, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and multiple boxes. This is one of the most popular sizes for residential moves because it balances space and cost well. Reserve a 10x10 storage unit.

 

10x15 Storage Unit (150 sq ft, 1,200 cu ft)

A 10x15 unit provides 150 square feet and 1,200 cubic feet. It fits the contents of a two-bedroom home, including furniture for two bedrooms, a living room set, kitchen appliances, and boxes. Some compact cars may also fit with room to walk around. If you are moving from an apartment or a small house, this size often meets the need without paying for extra space. See available 10x15 units.

 

10x20 Storage Unit (200 sq ft, 1,600 cu ft)

At 200 square feet and 1,600 cubic feet, a 10x20 unit can hold the contents of a three-bedroom home. Most cars, SUVs, vans, and some pickups fit inside with additional room for household items. This size is popular for families who need to store both furniture and a vehicle during a move or renovation. Check prices for 10x20 storage.

 

10x30 Storage Unit (300 sq ft, 2,400 cu ft)

The largest common size, a 10x30 unit, offers 300 square feet and 2,400 cubic feet. It can handle the contents of a larger home or be used for commercial storage. Larger vehicles such as trucks, RVs, or boats may fit, but always measure your vehicle and check with the facility. If you need maximum space, a 10x30 provides the most volume in a standard unit. Find 10x30 storage units.

Storage Unit Size Comparison Table (more info here)
 

Unit Size	Square Feet	Cubic Feet (8 ft ceiling)	Home Size Equivalent	Vehicle Fit
5x5	25	200	Small walk-in closet	Not for vehicles
5x10	50	400	Studio apartment	Not for vehicles
10x10	100	800	Small bedroom / one-bedroom apartment	Not for vehicles
10x15	150	1,200	Two-bedroom home	Compact cars may fit
10x20	200	1,600	Three-bedroom home	Most cars, SUVs, vans, some pickups
10x30	300	2,400	Larger home or commercial	Larger vehicles (verify dimensions)

Vehicle Storage Considerations

If you plan to store a vehicle, measure its length, width, and height before choosing a unit. Most cars, SUVs, vans, and some pickups fit inside a 10x20 unit. Compact cars may fit in a 10x15 unit with some space left for items. For larger vehicles, a 10x25 or 10x30 unit is recommended. Always allow extra room to walk around the vehicle and open doors. Many storage facilities offer drive-up access, which makes loading and unloading easier.

How to Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Start by making an inventory of everything you plan to store. Measure large items like mattresses, sofas, and tables. Consider whether you need space to walk inside the unit or if you can stack boxes to the ceiling. If you are moving, think about future needs, it is often easier to rent a slightly larger unit than to upgrade later. Most facilities offer climate-controlled units for sensitive items like electronics, documents, and antiques. Use this size guide to narrow your options, then search on EZstorit to compare prices and reserve with no credit card required.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the smallest storage unit size available?

The smallest common storage unit size is a 5x5, which offers 25 square feet and 200 cubic feet. It is similar to a small walk-in closet and can hold a twin or full-size mattress, a few boxes, and small furniture. Some facilities also offer smaller lockers, but the 5x5 is the standard starting point for self-storage.

Can I store a car in a 10x20 storage unit?

Yes, but it must be an outside, drive-up unit. Most cars, SUVs, vans, and some pickups fit in a 10x20 unit, which provides 200 square feet and 1,600 cubic feet. Compact cars may also fit in a 10x15 unit, while larger vehicles such as trucks or RVs typically require a 10x30 unit. Always measure your vehicle and check with the facility for specific dimensions.

How tall are storage units?

Most storage units have an 8-foot ceiling height. Some facilities offer units with 10-foot ceilings, which can increase the total cubic footage. When estimating how much you can store, count on the standard 8-foot height unless the facility specifies a taller ceiling. Stack boxes carefully to make the most of the vertical space.

What size storage unit do I need for a two-bedroom home?

A 10x15 storage unit is commonly recommended for the contents of a two-bedroom home. It provides 150 square feet and 1,200 cubic feet, enough for furniture from two bedrooms, a living room set, kitchen items, and boxes. If you have additional items like a vehicle or larger pieces, consider a 10x20 unit instead.

This storage unit size guide is designed to help you make an informed decision. Once you know the size that works for you, visit EZstorit to find available units in your area. Reserve instantly online with no credit card needed and take advantage of special offers like $1 first month.
 

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By: Lee Preston
As Director of Marketing and Promotion, Lee wears many hats—overseeing day-to-day operations, building strong client relationships, and crafting content for the EZstorit Blog that connects with readers on a personal level.