Choosing the right storage unit can feel tricky. You don’t want to pay for extra space you won’t use, but squeezing your belongings into a unit that’s too small is stressful too. That’s why it’s important to carefully assess what size storage unit you need, so you can select the most practical and cost-effective option for your belongings. Luckily, understanding storage unit sizes and what they can hold makes it much easier to find the perfect fit. A little planning goes along way in making sure your items stay safe, organised, and easy to access.

Understanding Storage Unit Sizes

Storage units come in all shapes and sizes, from small lockers to large garage-style spaces. When choosing a unit, it's important to consider both the floor space (measured in square feet or square metres) and the vertical space available, as smart stacking can help you maximise capacity. Here’s a simple overview of the most common sizes and what they can typically accommodate:

• Small (25–50 sq ft) – Perfect for storing a variety of belongings – from household items to business stock.
• Medium (75–100 sq ft) – Can hold furnishings up to the contents of a three-bedroom home. This size is ideal if you’re moving home or need temporary space during renovations.
• Large (125–200 sq ft) – Whether you’re relocating, storing business inventory or managing items from a large property, these sizes have the capacity to accommodate your requirements with ease.
• Extra Large (250+ sq ft) – Ideal for entire household contents, for those with extensive storage needs. This is the go-to if you’re downsizing, storing a family home long-term, or moving overseas.

If you’re unsure how much space you’ll need, taking a little time to plan and estimate your belongings can help you choose the right unit and avoid you paying for more space than you need. Even jotting down a simple list of your items can make the decision much clearer.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Storage Space

Even with the right unit, a few simple strategies can make a big difference in keeping your belongings safe and organised.

Stack Boxes Strategically

Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Using uniform box sizes wherever possible keeps everything stable and easier to access. If you have odd-shaped items, try filling gaps with smaller boxes or soft items like bedding to make the stack more secure.

Leave a Clear Walkway

Leaving a small path inside your unit means you can reach items at the back without unpacking everything in front. This is especially useful if you plan to access your storage regularly, or if you’re storing seasonal items that you’ll rotate throughout the year.

Use Vertical Space

Tall shelving or stacking boxes to the ceiling maximises your unit’s capacity. Think about storing items like wardrobes or mattresses upright to save room. Using the full height of your unit can make a big difference, particularly in smaller spaces.

Protect Fragile Items

Wrap furniture and delicate items in blankets, bubble wrap, or other padding. Seal boxes to keep out dust and moisture. Even small precautions can prevent damage and give you peace of mind. Our box shop has everything you need to keep your items safe.

Declutter Before You Store

Only store what you really need. Go through your items and donate, sell, or recycle anything you no longer use. Decluttering saves money and helps your storage unit feel more organised and efficient.

Group Items Logically

Keep similar belongings together; for example, kitchenware in one area and books in another. Label boxes clearly or use a simple colour-coding system. This makes it easier to find what you need later and keeps your unit tidy.

Avoid Paying for More Than You Need

One common mistake is choosing a unit that’s too large. Planning and taking stock of your items can help you pick the right size. Efficient packing can make a slightly smaller unit work perfectly, so you only pay for what you need.

Another tip is to group items logically. Keep similar belongings together, for example, kitchenware in one area and books in another. This makes it easier to find what you need later and ensures your unit stays tidy. Simple organisation strategies like labelling boxes clearly or colour-coding them can make a big difference in the long run.

Booking Your Unit

Once you know the size you need, booking is simple. Whether you’re storing a few boxes, important documents, or the contents of an entire home, there’s a unit to suit your life and budget.

Finding the right storage unit doesn’t have to be stressful. A little planning, smart packing, and careful organisation can make storing your belongings straightforward and worry-free. Once your items are safely stored, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is secure, accessible, and exactly where it should be.

Storage Made Simple with The Place

Discover safe and secure self-storage units from The Place. With locations across the South-East, you can rely on us to provide you with conveniently located, flexible storage facilities in a range of sizes to suit your needs.

Book your storage unit today and take the first step towards a clutter-free space.