What Size Storage Unit Do I Need? A Simple Guide
What size storage unit do you need? The right size is the smallest unit that holds everything and still leaves room to walk in and reach what you need. Go too small and moving day turns into a game of Tetris. Go too big and you pay every month for space you never use.
This guide covers the most common unit sizes, what fits in each, and a simple way to estimate your own size before you book. Whether you are storing in Toronto or anywhere else in Ontario, the same rules apply.
Storage unit sizes at a glance
Most people land in one of five common sizes. Here is how they compare.
Size | Square feet | Think of it as | What typically fits |
|---|---|---|---|
5x5 | 25 | A small closet | Boxes, seasonal decor, sports gear, small furniture |
5x10 | 50 | A walk-in closet | Dorm or studio contents, a mattress, a desk, boxes |
10x10 | 100 | An average bedroom | A one bedroom apartment: sofa, bed, appliances, boxes |
10x15 | 150 | A large bedroom | A two bedroom home, including larger furniture |
10x20 | 200 | A one car garage | A three bedroom house, or a vehicle |
Available sizes vary by location. For example, our downtown Toronto location offers units from 3x5 up to 10x45. Use our interactive Green Storage size guide to see what is offered near you.
Which size fits your situation?
Your reason for storing is often the quickest way to a size.
Student or dorm move out: A 5x5 or 5x10 usually covers boxes, a mini fridge, and a few pieces of furniture over the summer. See our student storage options.
Downsizing or a small apartment: A 5x10 or 10x10 handles most of a studio or one bedroom, so you can keep what you love while you sort out the rest.
Home renovation: Start with a 10x10 or 10x15 if you need to clear furniture from one or two rooms, and size up if the whole floor is affected.
Business inventory or documents: A 5x10 is a good start for stock and files. A 10x10 or larger suits equipment, displays, and bulk orders. Learn more about business storage.
Seasonal items: A 5x5 handles a few seasonal items, like tires, a bike, and holiday decor. A full patio set usually needs a 5x10.
Condo living: If your locker is full, a 5x5 or 5x10 gives you room for bikes, seasonal gear, and boxes.
Vehicles, RVs, and boats: These need a different kind of space. Explore parking and vehicle storage.
Not sure which one sounds like you? Our personal storage page shows the options in more detail.
How to estimate what you need
A few minutes of planning will save you from guessing.
List what is going in. Walk through each room and note the big items first: bed, sofa, table, appliances. Then estimate the number of boxes.
Measure the largest pieces. A sofa, mattress, or dresser sets the minimum footprint, so write down the length and width of each.
Think vertically. Most units have high ceilings, so stack boxes and stand items on end where it is safe. Heavier boxes go on the bottom.
Leave a walkway. Plan for a narrow aisle down the middle so you can reach things at the back without unpacking everything.
If your total lands between two sizes, choose the larger one. A little extra room makes loading easier and keeps items from getting crushed. And because there are no long term contracts, only a four week minimum, you are not locked in if your needs change.
Prefer a faster answer? Try our interactive size guide and let it help you estimate the right size.
Do you need a climate controlled unit?
If you are storing electronics, instruments, antiques, artwork, or leather furniture, choose climate control, because Ontario swings from freezing winters to humid summers. For boxes of clothing, tools, or seasonal decor, a standard unit is usually fine. Read our full breakdown of the benefits of climate controlled storage, and once you are packed, our guide on how to organize your storage unit will help you make the most of the space.
Common mistakes to avoid
Four slips cause most of the size regrets.
Forgetting the walkway. A unit packed wall to wall is hard to use. Leave an aisle.
Ignoring the awkward items. Mattresses, bikes, and lamps take up more room than their weight suggests.
Planning for today only. If you expect to add items later, build in extra space now.
Choosing on price alone. The smallest unit looks cheapest, but a cramped one can mean damaged belongings and wasted time.
Frequently asked questions
How big is a 10x10 storage unit?
It is 100 square feet, roughly the size of an average bedroom. It typically holds the contents of a one bedroom apartment.
What size unit do I need for a one bedroom apartment?
Most people choose a 10x10. If your furniture is minimal, a 5x10 may be enough.
Can I fit a mattress in a 5x5?
A twin mattress can sometimes stand upright in a 5x5, but queen and king mattresses are a better match for a 5x10 or larger.
How much does a storage unit cost?
Pricing depends on the unit size, the location, and any current specials. See today's rates and move in deals on our offers and discounts page.
Ready to find your size?
The easiest way to confirm your size is to see what is available. Browse units, compare prices, and reserve online in minutes, or use the location finder to find a Green Storage near you. Still unsure? Call 1-844-50-GREEN and a storage expert will help you pick the right size.
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