When it comes to decluttering your space, moving houses, or simply finding a place for your seasonal items, choosing the right size storage unit is a crucial decision.
Not too big that you're overpaying, nor too small that your belongings are cramped. This guide breaks down the process of determining the ideal size storage unit for your needs, ensuring you make the most out of your storage solution.
How Do I Figure Out What Size Storage Unit I Need?
First, Assess Your Needs
The first step in identifying the right size storage unit is to take stock of what you plan to store.
This means creating a list of items, from furniture to boxes, and considering their size and volume. The aim here is to declutter and organise before you store.
By doing so, you can accurately gauge the amount of space you'll need, ensuring your belongings fit comfortably without wasting money on unnecessary square footage.
It's Time To Measure Up
Once you have your list, the next step is to measure your belongings. You'll need two key measurements: the square footage and the cubic footage.
For square footage, calculate the area your items will occupy by measuring their length and width. Cubic footage adds another dimension—height—into the mix, giving you a fuller picture of the volume of your possessions.
This step is critical in understanding the size storage unit you require, especially if you plan to stack items or if they're of irregular shapes.
Consider not just the space to store your items, but also any additional room you might need for walking and accessing items once they're inside the unit.
Remember to factor in not just your current storage needs, but also any future additions, ensuring that the unit you choose is versatile enough to accommodate both immediate and potential storage requirements.
This proactive approach will help you select a size storage unit that fits your belongings comfortably, without wasting space or money.
Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit
Storage units come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 10 to over 300 square feet. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your choice:
- Small Units (10-50 sq. ft.) are suitable for boxes or small furniture pieces, akin to the size of a small closet.
- Medium Units (51-150 sq. ft.) can accommodate the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, making them ideal for most residential storage needs.
- Large Units (151-300+ sq. ft.) offer enough space for the contents of a multi-bedroom house, perfect for significant transitions like moving or extensive renovations.
The most popular size storage unit tends to be around 100 square feet, offering a balanced space for various storage needs without being too large or too small for the average user.
Consider Long-Term Storage Needs
How long you plan to store your items can also influence the size storage unit you choose.
For short-term storage, a smaller unit might suffice since you may not need to access your items frequently. For longer storage periods, a larger unit allows for better organisation and easier access to belongings without having to remove everything to get to one item.
Consider Storage-By-The-Box
If you're not sure how long you'll be storing for, or want some flexibility, look for companies that allow you to store by the box.
Companies like The Box Co. operate based on how many items you have, not how many units you occupy, meaning you only pay for the space you use.
Don't let the search for suitable sized storage overwhelm you. Enquire with The Box Co. today and see how straightforward and cost-effective securing storage by the box can be.
Use Online Tools
For those who find the task of estimating space daunting, many storage facilities offer online tools like "Calcumate."
These tools help you visualise how much space your items will need, providing a personalised recommendation for the size storage unit that best fits your needs.
Conclusion
Determining the right size storage unit doesn't have to be a guessing game. By understanding what you need to store, accurately measuring your items, and considering how long you'll be storing them, you can choose a unit that's just right for you.
Remember, the goal is to find a storage solution that offers peace of mind, security, and the flexibility to access your belongings when you need them. With the right size storage unit, you can achieve just that.