Spring Cleaning: Storage Units, Determining the Best Size

Spring Cleaning: Storage Units, Determining the Best Size

If you have decided that you need storage and have selected the storage facility that best meets your needs, you need to determine how much space you will actually need.

The best place to start when determining unit size is to take a look at the things you plan to put into storage and make an inventory list.  Once you have the list, visit the facility to view the actual space- it will be easier than trying to picture in your head. Reputable storage facilities will have staff that are trained and experienced in helping tenants determine the proper storage space.

Another item to consider is how long you plan to store items, as it may be important to provide space for ventilation and access. If you ever want to be able to get your items out, you don’t want to pack your storage space wall to wall, floor to ceiling. Many people get the smallest possible unit they can get in order to save money, and then wind up having to empty half of it to get to a box that’s in the back.

Finally, try to think ahead. Does the property offer a wide variety of unit sizes and types? You may just need that 10×10 unit right now, but what if you need more space down the road to store your precious antique heirlooms from Grandma? Having the option to change or add a different unit later on is great, just in case you need it!

Once you have determined the items you will need to store, it’s time to consider unit sizes. Below are the most common unit sizes:

  • 5 x 5 – The 5×5 unit is perfect for storing totes or boxes of out of season clothes, personal and business records, holiday decorations or a few smaller pieces of furniture like end tables and lamps.              
  • 5 x 10 and 5 x 15 – These storage units are great for storing furniture from a small studio apartment, an entire bedroom or office. Are you looking to remodel a room or office? Now you can have the space to keep all of the contents during construction instead of clogging up other rooms!
  • 10 x 10 – These are usually the most popular units because they are not too small and not too large. These units can handle the contents of a large one or two bedroom apartment, or a small house with minimal appliances. If you are downsizing but want to keep your extra furniture until you decide what to do with it, these would be a great size for you.
  • 10×15 – This 150 square foot unit is about the size of half of a standard  one-car garage and will hold the contents of a two bedroom house or apartment, including appliance and boxes, or commercial storage inventory.
  • 10 x 20 – If you are moving and your new home isn’t ready, this is most likely the size you’ll need to store your belongings until you can move in. It can handle a three or four bedroom home including some major appliances. This is also a great size unit for that classic car you want to park inside for the winter.
  • 10 x 30 – This is some serious storage space and can handle the contents of a four bedroom home, including major appliances and garage items like tools and patio furniture.

Your best bet when asking “What size storage unit do I need?” is to talk to the manager at the facility. Additionally, most modern self storage facilities list the sizes and types they offer on their website and even show the current rental rates. The last thing you want to do is guess, and then realize while you are moving everything into your unit that you didn’t choose one that is large enough.

Rehoboth resident Timarie and her husband Blair Thompson are the owners of Delaware Beach Storage Center in Lewes, DE.  Delaware Beach Storage Center is a brand new, state of the art climate controlled self-storage facility conveniently located just off Route 1, one mile north of Five Points. For more information on Delaware Beach Storage Center visit visit www.debeachstorage.com.

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