Determining the right amount of storage space can be a puzzling task, particularly when planning a home move or simply aiming to declutter. The amount of storage space required varies significantly based on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of belongings you possess, and your future plans for these items.
To begin with, understanding the common sizes of storage units and their capacities is crucial. Storage units typically range from small lockers of about 25 square feet, suitable for storing boxes or small furniture items, to larger units of 200 square feet or more, which can accommodate the contents of a four-bedroom house. For a step-by-step breakdown, our guide on calculating your storage unit size walks you through the key measurements to consider. For a detailed breakdown by room and item type, our storage unit sizing guide walks you through the calculations step by step.
A practical step to estimate your required storage space is to list all items you plan to store. Break down these items by category—furniture, boxes, appliances, and miscellaneous items. This inventory will not only give you a clearer picture of the volume but also help in organising and packing the items efficiently.
For a more visual approach, consider the layout of a typical storage unit:
– A 25 square foot unit is roughly the size of a small closet and is ideal for storing personal items, documents, small furniture, or seasonal decorations.
– A 50 square foot unit can hold the contents of a studio apartment, including several boxes, a mattress, small furniture, and appliances.
– A 100 square foot unit is about the size of a small garage and can store the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or small house, including larger furniture and appliances.
– Units larger than 150 square feet can accommodate items from a home with multiple bedrooms, including all large furniture pieces, household appliances, boxes, and additional items like sports equipment or garden tools. Once you have booked the right size, our advice on organising a storage unit efficiently will help you make the most of every square foot. Once you know the right unit size, read our guide on packing a storage container to make the most of every cubic foot. If you are storing white goods, our guide to packing a refrigerator for storage covers the preparation steps you need to follow first.
However, the size of the unit you choose should not only be based on the volume of items but also on the ease of access you require. If frequent access to the items is needed, consider a slightly larger unit to allow for an aisle or space to move around within the unit. This is particularly important if you are storing business inventory or files. Fragile kitchenware takes up more room than most people expect, so take a look at our advice on packing plates and glasses safely before you start loading boxes.
Additionally, the duration for which you plan to store items might influence the type of storage facility you choose. For long-term storage, look for facilities that offer climate-controlled units to protect your belongings from humidity, temperature extremes, and pests. This is essential for preserving the condition of items such as wooden furniture, electronics, and clothing. Read our practical guide on packing a self-storage unit to avoid wasted space and protect your belongings during storage. If your timeline has changed and you need space at short notice, our last-minute storage service is available across London. Those who are moving out of your parents house for the first time often underestimate how much space their belongings will occupy in a unit.
Before making a decision, visit several storage facilities to inspect their security measures, cleanliness, and customer service. This will ensure that your belongings are stored in a safe and accessible location.
In conclusion, while estimating the amount of storage space you need might seem daunting, a systematic approach to assessing your storage needs will simplify the process. Take inventory, consider the size and access requirements, and choose a facility that meets your specific needs. Remember, opting for a slightly larger unit than you currently need can save you the hassle of relocating to a bigger space later, should your storage needs increase. Our detailed look at storage space requirements by home size covers typical unit sizes for everything from a studio flat to a four-bedroom house. Reducing what you own before you store is always worthwhile, and our advice on decluttering your workspace can help you cut down on unnecessary items.
