What Size Storage Unit Do I Need? 2026 Size Guide
Aug 28, 2026 / Public Storage
The right storage unit size depends on how much you plan to store, the dimensions of your belongings and whether you need room to access items later. Small units such as 5’x5′ and 5’x10′ work well for boxes and smaller household storage, while 10’x15′ to 10’x25′ units provide more room for multi-room moves and larger storage needs.
Key Takeaways
- 5’x5′ and 5’x10′ units work well for smaller storage needs.
- 5’x15′ and 10’x10′ units can accommodate furniture and belongings from one or more rooms.
- 10’x15′ to 10’x25′ units provide space for larger household moves and business inventory.
- Vehicle storage is typically selected by vehicle length rather than square footage.
- Leave room for a walkway if you expect to access stored belongings regularly.
- Use the Public Storage Size Guide to compare dimensions and approximate capacity before renting.
Storage Unit Size Comparison
| Unit Size | Approx. Square Feet | Approx. Cubic Feet | Commonly Fits |
| Locker | 25 | 100 | Storage closet with reduced height |
| 5’x5′ | 25 | 200 | Storage closet |
| 5’x10′ | 50 | 400 | Studio apartment |
| 5’x15′ | 75 | 600 | 1 bedroom |
| 10’x10′ | 100 | 800 | 2 bedrooms |
| 10’x15′ | 150 | 1,200 | 2-bedroom home |
| 10’x20′ | 200 | 1,600 | 3-bedroom home |
| 10’x25′ | 250 | 2,000 | 4-bedroom home |
| Up to 20′ | — | — | Most cars |
| Up to 35′ | — | — | Most RVs and boats |
| Up to 50′ | — | — | Many trailers and oversize vehicles |
Sizes are approximate and may vary by facility. Actual capacity depends on item dimensions and how belongings are packed.
How Do I Choose the Right Storage Unit Size?
Start with three steps:
- Make an inventory. List the furniture, appliances, boxes and larger items you plan to store.
- Estimate the total space. Think about how much room everything will take up together, not just individually.
- Consider access. If you expect to retrieve belongings regularly, leave enough room to reach boxes and larger items without unpacking the entire unit.
If you expect to add more belongings later, consider that when comparing sizes.
What Fits in a Small Storage Unit?
Storage Lockers
Storage lockers provide compact storage with reduced height and can work well for:
- Seasonal clothing
- Travel bags
- Sports gear
- Small household items
5’x5′ Storage Units
A 5’x5′ unit provides about 25 square feet of floor space and is similar to a large closet.
It can work well for:
- Up to 10 large moving boxes
- Seasonal decorations
- Small furniture
- A twin or full mattress
Learn more about 5’x5′ storage.
5’x10′ Storage Units
A 5’x10′ unit provides about 50 square feet of floor space and is similar to a large shed.
It can accommodate:
- 20+ large moving boxes
- Bedroom furniture
- Twin or queen mattresses
- Small office equipment
- Belongings from a studio or single room
What Fits in a Medium Storage Unit?
5’x15′ Storage Units
A 5’x15′ unit provides about 75 square feet and is comparable to a large walk-in closet.
It can provide room for bedroom furniture, boxes, a kitchen table and other household items.
10’x10′ Storage Units
A 10’x10′ unit provides about 100 square feet and can accommodate furniture, appliances and boxes from multiple rooms.
This size can work well for apartment moves, renovations and household storage.
What Fits in a Large Storage Unit?
10’x15′ Storage Units
A 10’x15′ unit provides about 150 square feet and can accommodate belongings from about a two-bedroom home.
Learn more about 10’x15′ storage.
10’x20′ Storage Units
A 10’x20′ unit provides about 200 square feet and is similar in size to a small one-car garage.
It can provide space for furniture, appliances, boxes and belongings from a larger household.
Learn more about 10’x20′ storage.
10’x25′ Storage Units
A 10’x25′ unit provides about 250 square feet and can accommodate belongings from a larger home as well as business inventory or equipment.
Learn more about 10’x25′ storage.
What Size Storage Space Do I Need for a Car, Boat or RV?
Vehicle storage is usually selected by length.
Before choosing a space, measure the full vehicle, including any hitches, racks, spare-tire mounts or other accessories.
Public Storage vehicle-storage options may include:
- Up to 20 feet: Most standard-size cars
- Up to 35 feet: Most RVs and boats
- Up to 50 feet: Many trailers and oversize vehicles
Covered, uncovered and enclosed vehicle-storage options vary by facility.
Should I Choose a Larger Storage Unit If I’m Between Sizes?
Possibly. A larger unit may make sense if you expect to add more belongings later or want room for a walkway.
If you expect the unit to stay packed for most of the rental period and won’t need frequent access, a smaller option may still meet your needs.
Compare dimensions before reserving rather than choosing based on room count alone.
FAQs About Storage Unit Sizes
What size storage unit fits a studio apartment?
A 5’x10′ unit provides about 50 square feet and can often accommodate furniture, boxes, and belongings from a studio apartment.
What size storage unit fits a two-bedroom home?
A 10’x15′ unit provides about 150 square feet and can accommodate belongings from about a two-bedroom home.
How big is a 10’x10′ storage unit?
A 10’x10′ storage unit provides about 100 square feet of floor space and 800 cubic feet of storage volume.
What size storage space fits a car?
A vehicle-storage space up to 20 feet long can accommodate many standard-size cars. Measure your vehicle before reserving.
Where can I compare storage unit sizes?
Use the Public Storage Size Guide to compare unit dimensions, approximate capacity and common uses.
