How to Calculate the Storage Space You Need for Self-Storage
Calculating the storage space you need can be a bit tricky, especially if you're not familiar with the various sizes and capacities of storage units. However, with a few simple guidelines and tips, you can accurately determine the right amount of space for your belongings. Whether you're decluttering your home, moving, or need extra space for business inventory, this guide will help you estimate your storage needs efficiently.
1. Inventory Your Items
Start by making a detailed list of everything you plan to store. This inventory will give you a clear picture of the volume and types of items you need to accommodate. Categorize your items into groups such as furniture, boxes, appliances, and miscellaneous items. This step is crucial for visualizing the overall space requirements.
2. Measure Larger Items
Measure the dimensions of your larger items, such as furniture and appliances. Note the height, width, and depth of each piece. This will help you understand how much floor space and vertical space these items will occupy in the storage unit. For example, a standard sofa might measure around 7 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 3 feet high.
3. Estimate Box Sizes
For boxed items, estimate the number and sizes of boxes you’ll be storing. Moving boxes come in various sizes, typically ranging from small (1.5 cubic feet) to extra-large (6.1 cubic feet). Knowing how many boxes and their sizes can help you stack them efficiently in the storage unit.
4. Use Online Storage Calculators
Many self-storage websites offer online storage calculators. These tools allow you to input the types and quantities of items you plan to store, and they provide an estimate of the storage unit size you'll need. These calculators are designed to give you a rough estimate, so you have a starting point when choosing a unit size.
5. Consider Your Organization Plan
Think about how you will organize your storage unit. Efficient use of space can significantly reduce the size of the unit you need. Plan to use shelving units to take advantage of vertical space and stack boxes and smaller items neatly. Leave pathways to access items at the back of the unit without having to unload everything.
6. Common Storage Unit Sizes
Here are some common storage unit sizes and what they typically hold:
5x5 (25 square feet): Small furniture, boxes, and small items.
5x10 (50 square feet): One-room apartment or studio’s worth of furniture and boxes.
10x10 (100 square feet): Contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including appliances.
10x15 (150 square feet): Contents of a two-bedroom apartment or small house.
10x20 (200 square feet): Contents of a three-bedroom house, including large appliances.
10x30 (300 square feet): Contents of a four-bedroom house, or larger business inventory.
7. Seek Professional Advice
If you're still unsure about the space you need, consult with a storage professional. Many storage facilities have experienced staff who can provide advice based on the items you're storing. They can also show you different unit sizes and help you visualize how your belongings will fit.
8. Future Needs
Consider if you will need more space in the future. If you anticipate adding more items to your storage, it might be wise to opt for a slightly larger unit now, rather than upgrading later.
By following these steps, you can accurately calculate the storage space you need and choose the right storage unit for your requirements. This careful planning will help you avoid overpaying for space you don't need and ensure your belongings are stored safely and efficiently.