Picking a storage unit sounds simple. Until you’re standing in front of a half-packed moving truck, wondering if everything is actually going to fit.
Getting the size wrong is one of the most common and most avoidable storage mistakes. Go too small, and you’ll be cramming things in and struggling to access anything. Go too big, and you’re paying for space you don’t need. Neither is a great outcome.
The good news? It’s not that hard to get right. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you work out exactly what you need before you book.
Start With What You’re Storing
Before you think about unit sizes, make a list of everything you plan to store. Be specific. Don’t just write ‘furniture’, write ‘three-seater couch, queen bed frame, two bedside tables, and a chest of drawers.’
It also helps to separate your items into two categories:
- Items you’ll need to access regularly (tools, seasonal gear, business stock)
- Items that can be packed away and left alone (archived documents, long-term furniture storage)
This matters because if you need regular access, you’ll want to leave a walkway inside your unit, which affects how much space you actually need. It’s a detail a lot of people overlook when they’re sizing up, and it can make the difference between a unit that works and one that’s a constant frustration.
A Quick Guide to Common Unit Sizes
Storage units vary between facilities, but here’s a general guide to what different sizes can comfortably hold. Use this as a starting point, then adjust based on your specific situation.
Small Units (locker or small room)
Think of these as a large wardrobe or garden shed. They’re great for people who just need to clear a bit of space without committing to something larger. Good for:
- Boxes of documents, books, or personal items
- Seasonal items like camping gear or holiday decorations
- A few small pieces of furniture
- Tradesperson’s tools and small equipment
Medium Units (single or double garage equivalent)
The most popular choice, and for good reason. These handle a surprising amount when packed well. If you’re moving house, clearing out a property, or running a small business that needs somewhere to keep stock and equipment, a medium unit will cover most situations. Suitable for:
- Contents of a one or two-bedroom home
- Large furniture, including sofas and bed frames
- Business inventory and stock
- Trade equipment, materials, and supplies
Large Units (oversized or warehouse-style)
If you’re storing the contents of a large family home, running a business with significant inventory, or need space for bulky equipment, this is your option. Large units give you the room to store items properly without stacking things dangerously or sacrificing access. They can also accommodate:
- Appliances (fridges, washing machines, dryers)
- Commercial shelving and display units
- Oversized or awkwardly shaped items
Three Questions to Ask Before You Book
Still not sure? Run through these before making a decision.
1. Will I need to access this regularly?
If you’re popping in weekly or even daily to grab tools, restock products, or retrieve documents, you’ll need a walkway inside your unit. That means you should size up slightly from what you think you need. A unit that’s easy to move around in will save you a lot of frustration over time.
2. Can I stack things?
Uniform boxes stacked to the ceiling can dramatically increase the capacity of a smaller unit. If your items are oddly shaped, bulky, or fragile, you’ll have less flexibility and may need more floor space. It’s worth thinking about how you’ll actually pack the unit before you commit to a size.
3. Might my needs change?
Business owners in particular should think ahead. If you’re storing product inventory that’s likely to grow, it might be worth starting with a slightly larger unit rather than having to move everything later. The same applies if you’re in the middle of a renovation or transition and aren’t sure exactly what you’ll end up keeping.
Common Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
A few things people consistently get wrong:
- Underestimating furniture. A queen bed, mattress, and frame take up more room than you’d expect, especially when you factor in what’s going around them.
- Forgetting about vertical space. Most units have decent ceiling height. Shelving units and stacked boxes can double your usable storage, so use it.
- Not accounting for packaging. Bubble wrap, blankets, and protective covers all add bulk. Factor this in before you book.
- Choosing based on price alone. A slightly larger unit at a fair price is almost always better value than cramming everything into a unit that’s too small.
When in Doubt, Ask
You don’t have to figure this out alone. At Self Storage Logan, we’re happy to talk through what you’re storing and point you toward the right option. We’d rather help you get it right the first time than have you end up with a unit that doesn’t work for you.
We’re a family-owned facility based in Logan’s south-east, with 24/7 access and competitive pricing. No corporate runaround, just straightforward storage that works.
Ready to find your unit? Get in touch or book online today.
