When you are confused while trying to choose the ideal size for a self-storage unit, you need to ask yourself, “Which is the best storage unit size calculator you can use?” What size storage unit should you go for? The answers to the above-mentioned questions are not easy because you will find out that there are many standard storage unit sizes with various features.
You need to determine the storage unit’s purpose and the number of items you want to put in the storage unit.
Here are a few tips to select the ideal size for a self-storage unit:
What’s the Main Function of the Storage Unit?
When the purpose is clear, the means will always follow. You can’t have an undersized unit and start looking for a larger sized unit after renting the mismatched unit. It makes sense to gauge the unit’s primary function, and you’ll understand what size storage unit suits your purpose.
You need to make a checklist of the items you want to store and whether you’ll be making any changes (additions or deletions) in the future. The storage unit’s function will be one of the deciding factors in determining the size. If it is for business purposes (storing inventory), it is logical to rent a large-sized unit to accommodate more items than what you start with. If you want to keep some household items, you should select the size accordingly. If you are contemplating a temporary relocation, you know what is going into the storage unit and accurately judge the size.
The First Checklist
The first checklist you prepare after surveying the items in your home will give you a fair idea of the storage unit size that will be suitable. Unless you make a list, it isn’t easy to calculate, and even a ready reckoner for a storage unit size calculator won’t be of much help. Self-storage unit SoDo Seattle provides the perfect storage unit for household & business items.
Things to jot down when preparing the checklist:
- A rough estimation of the number of boxes that’ll go into the unit
- Make a list of all the furniture items going into storage.
- Get a tape to measure the larger pieces and jot them down.
How to Measure Storage Unit Sizes
When you set out to measure storage unit sizes, ensure that you carry a painter’s tape to mark the size in some open space. You may place some empty moving boxes in the taped enclosure, which will give you a fair idea of how many boxes will go in comfortably. This method works well when you plan to rent small-sized storage units.
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Bigger Sizes, if Required
There’s no point in being ‘penny wise and pound foolish’ by going for a smaller-sized storage box, thinking all the items will fit in. Besides affecting the safe-keeping of your goods, it is going to cost you more in the long run. You shouldn’t be stacking more than two pieces of furniture, one above the other.
Similarly, it is not safe to have more than four boxes stacked one above the other. Apart from giving you problems while unpacking, there is no guarantee that your goods will remain safe in the storage unit when packed that way.
When you check the prices, you’ll notice that the prices do not increase in proportion to increase in the boxes’ size. The prices are lower when you go for larger-sized boxes. Invariably, larger units turn out to be less expensive; hence, smaller-sized units need not help save money.
Common Sizes
Most of the storage facilities provide standard sizes; here’s a list of sizes and what each size is best suited for:
The storage units start at this size; a typical 5 X 8 is perfect for storing a few household goods because it is more like an average-sized closet and can hold a few boxes and some pieces of furniture. It is suitable for a few moving boxes, a medium-sized chest of drawers, clothing, and books. Most of these units are self-storage and offer drive-up access.
The next size is bigger and has more than double the capacity measuring 10 X 10. It is the most sought-after size. It has a total area of 100 sq ft and can accommodate items found in a typical small apartment, including furniture items, appliances, and 10 to 15 moving boxes.
However, if the items you want to store include a compact car, piano, large couches, and some major appliances, you may want to go for a bigger size, like a 10 X 15. It is easier to use a space estimator, which gives you an exact idea of the size that suits your requirements best. Some storage unit providers throw in a lock for free, as a bonus, besides providing a fully-fenced enclosure, night-lighted for increased security.
Summing it Up
Storage units come in various sizes suiting a wide range of requirements. It is advisable to calculate roughly the storage unit’s size that fits your goods to avoid wasting time and money.
