The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size for Your Move

Planning a move can be overwhelming especially when it comes to figuring out how much storage space youll actually need. Rent too small a unit, and youll be frustrated by the lack of room. Go too big, and youre wasting money on unused space. So how do you choose the right storage unit size for your needs? In this guide, well walk you through the most common storage sizes, explain how to estimate your storage needs, and answer the common question: how big is a 5x15 storage unit, and is it the right choice for you?

Why Storage Size Matters During a Move

Whether you're moving between apartments, relocating for work, or downsizing, temporary storage offers peace of mind. It keeps your belongings safe and accessible while you transition between homes. But to keep your move efficient and cost-effective, it's important to match your storage unit size with the volume of items you plan to store.

Getting the size right means:

• You save money on rental fees

• Your items are stored safely and neatly

• You avoid last-minute unit upgrades (and stress)

Common Storage Unit Sizes and What They Fit

Lets briefly look at a few popular sizes to put things in perspective:

• 5x5 (25 sq ft): Great for small items, boxes, or seasonal decorations.

• 5x10 (50 sq ft): Fits a few pieces of furniture and several boxes.

• 5x15 (75 sq ft): This is where we start getting serious. But how big is a 5x15 storage unit, exactly?

• 10x10 (100 sq ft): Ideal for a one-bedroom apartment.

• 10x15 or larger (150+ sq ft): Can hold the contents of a two- to three-bedroom home.

So, How Big is a 5x15 Storage Unit?

A 5x15 storage unit offers 75 square feet of floor space roughly the size of a large walk-in closet or a small bedroom. But more importantly, it often includes up to 600 cubic feet of usable storage space if you pack vertically (with ceilings typically around 8 feet high).

To give you a visual, a 5x15 unit can hold:

• A queen-size bed with mattress and frame

• A small couch or loveseat

• A dresser and nightstands

• A few medium-sized appliances

• 2030 moving boxes

• Bicycles, sports equipment, and seasonal items

If you're asking "how big is a 5x15 storage unit" to figure out if its suitable for your move, the answer is: its ideal for storing the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or a small office.

When Is a 5x15 Storage Unit the Right Choice?

Here are common scenarios where a 5x15 unit makes perfect sense:

• Youre moving out of a one-bedroom apartment.

• Youre staging a home and need to temporarily store furniture.

• Youre remodeling part of your house.

• You have seasonal items or business inventory.

If youre between leases or waiting to close on a home, this size gives you a comfortable middle ground not too small, not too large.

Tips for Choosing the Right Unit Size

1. Make an Inventory List

Write down everything you plan to store including furniture, boxes, appliances, and odd-shaped items. Use this to visualize the space required.

2. Use Online Space Calculators

Many storage providers offer online tools that help estimate the right unit size based on your inventory. While not perfect, theyre a helpful starting point.

3. Visit the Facility in Person

Ask to see an empty unit in person. Standing inside can help you judge if the 5x15 space is suitable for your belongings. It also gives you a chance to check lighting, accessibility, and security features.

4. Consider Vertical Space

Stacking is your friend. If your furniture or boxes can be safely stacked, you might need less floor space than you think. This is especially true in a unit like the 5x15, where vertical room can dramatically increase your usable space.

5. Think About Access Needs

If you need to access items regularly, go slightly larger than you think. Its better to leave room for a narrow aisle than have to unload half the unit to reach the back.

Other Factors to Consider

• Climate Control: If youre storing wooden furniture, electronics, books, or delicate items, climate control protects against extreme temperatures and humidity.

• Security: Look for gated access, security cameras, and on-site management.

• Convenience: Choose a location near your new home to minimize travel during your move.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right storage unit size can save you time, money, and frustration during a move. If youve been wondering how big is a 5x15 storage unit, now you know: its a spacious and flexible option that fits a surprisingly large amount of belongings. Perfect for one-bedroom moves, partial household storage, or temporary transitions, the 5x15 unit offers an ideal balance of size and affordability.

Still not sure what size you need? Visit your local storage facility or use their size guides to see your options in person. Its always better to size up slightly than to cram everything into a space thats too small.