How Much Self Storage Space Do I Need?

Renting a self-storage unit is a great way to free up space at home, store business inventory, or keep belongings safe during a move. But one of the biggest questions people have is: “How much self-storage space do I need?”

Choosing the right unit size can save you money while ensuring you have enough room for everything. Too small, and you’ll struggle to fit everything in. Too large, and you may end up paying for unused space. To make the right choice, let’s break down how to estimate your storage needs and what unit sizes work best for different situations.

Take Inventory of What You Need to Store

Before choosing a storage unit size, start by making a list of everything you plan to store. Consider:

• Furniture – Are you storing a few chairs or an entire living room set?
• Appliances – Refrigerators, washers, and dryers take up more space than you think.
• Boxes and Bins – How many? What are their sizes?
• Large Items – Bikes, mattresses, or even a vehicle?

By listing your belongings, you can better visualize the space you’ll need.

Consider How Long You’ll Store Your Items

Are you using self-storage for a short-term move, or will you need long-term storage? If you only need it for a short time, you might be okay with a snug fit. But if you’ll need frequent access, choosing a slightly larger unit can make it easier to navigate and retrieve items without moving everything around.

Match Your Needs to Standard Storage Unit Sizes

Most storage facilities offer a range of unit sizes, so let’s go over the most common ones and what they can hold:

4’ x 6’ (24 sq. ft.) – Small Closet Size

Great for:

• A few small furniture items (like end tables or chairs)
• Several medium-sized boxes
• Seasonal decorations, sports gear, or business documents

Think of this as an extra closet—perfect for decluttering or storing a few smaller items.

6’ x 11’ (66 sq. ft.) – Large Walk-In Closet Size

Great for:

• A small bedroom’s worth of furniture
• Mattress set, nightstands, and a few boxes
• Bikes, camping gear, or small appliances

Ideal for storing the contents of a dorm room or studio apartment.

10’ x 11’ (110 sq. ft.) – Small Bedroom Size

Great for:

• The contents of a one-bedroom apartment
• Several large appliances, couches, or a dining table
• Business inventory or equipment

If you’re in the middle of a move or need space for business supplies, this size is a popular choice.

10’ x 15’ (150 sq. ft.) – Large Bedroom Size

Great for:

• A two-bedroom apartment’s furniture and boxes
• Larger appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator)
• Office furniture or retail inventory

This is a good option if you have bulky furniture or a mix of personal and business items.

10’ x 22’ (220 sq. ft.) – One-Car Garage Size

Great for:

• A three-bedroom home’s contents
• Vehicles (small cars, motorcycles, or ATVs)
• Large office equipment or heavy-duty storage needs

Ideal for families moving between homes or businesses storing excess inventory.

15’ x 22’ (330 sq. ft.) – Large Garage Size

Great for:

• A four-bedroom home’s contents
• Large vehicle storage (trucks, boats, RVs)
• Business owners needing warehouse-like space

If you need to store an entire household’s worth of items, this is the best option.

Optimize Your Storage Space

Even if you pick the right size, organizing your unit properly can help you maximize space. Here are a few quick tips:

• Stack boxes and furniture vertically to take advantage of height.
• Use shelving units to keep items accessible.
• Label everything so you can find what you need easily.
• Leave an aisle for easy access to items in the back.

Planning your storage layout ahead of time can help you avoid the frustration of digging through piles of boxes later.

Read 14 Top Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit here. 

Ask for Help If You’re Unsure

If you’re still not sure what size unit to rent, don’t hesitate to ask your storage facility for guidance. Here at Albuquerque Self Storage, we list our storage unit sizes clearly so customers like you know exactly what they’re getting. You can also visit the facility in person and check out different unit sizes before making a decision.

Choosing the right self-storage unit size doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By taking inventory, considering how long you’ll store your items, and understanding the different unit sizes, you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

Need help selecting the right unit for you? Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect storage solution!