How to Choose the Right Size Storage Unit (with Real Examples + Space Diagrams)
Meg
December 26th, 2025
At Carson City Storage, we understand choosing the right size storage unit can feel a bit daunting, especially if this is your first time renting one. Questions such as affordability, accessibility and what size storage units even come in, can all begin flooding in at this time. We have put together a helpful guide to lead you to the best size storage unit to accommodate your storage needs!
How Do People Decide What Size Storage Unit They Need?
Choosing the right storage unit involves several steps to ensure you choose the most suitable option for your needs. Here is a list of general steps to follow when you are on the hunt for storage space:
- Take Inventory: Jot down a list of all items you plan to store. This might include: furniture, boxes, appliances, seasonal items or even a backstock of inventory for your business!
- Consider Accessibility: How often will you need to access your storage unit? Selecting a larger unit may offer more space for maneuverability (think room to walk inside of your unit to find what you need), whereas smaller units might be more convenient for frequent access to your items.
- Use Size Guides: Utilize online storage size guides or Carson City Storage’s Storage Calculator. You can always consult with our team at Carson City Storage to help determine the right size, too!
- Measure Your Items: Measure the sizes of your furniture, appliances, and anything else you would like to store to ensure they will fit into the storage unit. Calculate Your Space below!
- Pack Efficiently: Pack your items tightly to maximize space. Use stackable boxes and free-standing shelving to make the most of vertical space. See our blog post “How to Pack for Self-Storage the Right Way”
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and choose the right size storage unit that meets your needs and your budget!
What are the Average Storage Unit Sizes in Carson City?
Storage sizes in our area typically range from small, think 5x5, to the size of your average garage, think 10x20. Generally, storage units offer ceiling heights of 7ft to 9ft. Carson City Storage offers enclosed units that can reach up to 12ft!Here at Carson City Storage, we’ve taken it a step further by offering even smaller locker space, all the way up to 10x30 which is large enough to accommodate a 3-4 bedroom household or even a boat!
Calculate Your Space: How to Know if Your Items Will Fit.
When deciding on a storage unit size below, it can be helpful to have one of two measurements:
- Square Feet: Multiply the length and width of your belongings. If they make a pile that is 5x5 feet, you will need a storage unit with at least 25 square feet. (Carson City Storage has excellent 5x5 storage units![link]).
- Cubic Feet: Multiply the length, width, and height of your belongings. If your larger items make a pile that measures 5x5x5 feet, you will need a storage unit with at least 125 cubic feet.
Let’s Decide What Size Will Work Best for You! Storage Unit Size Guide:
25 square feet/200 cubic feet
Comparable to: Hall closet or half bathroom.
What will fit: Small items such as tools, bags, suitcases, and boxes or bins.
Rental Truck Size: Vehicle trunk load or small trailer.
100 square feet/800 cubic feet
Comparable to: Average size bedroom
What will fit: The contents of a one-bedroom apartment (dresser, small table, mattress, bedframe, boxes).
Rental Truck Size: 10ft Box Truck, U-Haul’s Pickup Truck, or medium Rental Trailer
200 square feet/1600 cubic feet
Comparable to: Standard one-car garage
What will fit: The contents of a 2–3-bedroom house or full garage. You can even fit a car in here!
Rental Truck Size: 20ft Box Truck or flatbed trailer.
300 square feet/2400 cubic feet
Comparable to: Two car garage.
What will fit: Large enough to accommodate a full household (3-4 bedrooms) or even a boat!
Rental Truck Size: 26ft Box Truck or large cargo trailer
**Suggested sizes are for guidance only. Larger items and how efficiently units and/or trucks are loaded can significantly impact the size and quantity of storage units and rental trucks you will need.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay for a Storage Unit?
When it comes to choosing the right size storage unit, you also have to consider your budget. Knowing how much any given size may cost is not as simple as you may think. Many things factor into each unit’s monthly rate. Availability and demand being one. Are any specials being offered on the size you need? Are there any upfront costs? Will you be required to purchase insurance? To find out the answers to these and other pricing questions, see our blog post “How Much Do Storage Units Cost in Carson City?”
Now that you know what the right size storage unit is for you, or if you still need some help deciding, give Carson City Storage a call or visit us at Storage Units In Carson City, NV | (#1 Facility + 2 Months Free) to secure a space today!
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