How to Choose a Storage Unit / Finding Your Storage Solution
Frequently asked questions about choosing the right storage unit.
From identifying the right size storage unit for your needs to determining the features and amenities that’ll deliver the storage experience you’re looking for, we cover the most common questions asked by customers when trying to choose a storage unit.
Choosing A Storage Unit Size
Storage Unit Types
Climate-Controlled Storage
Vehicle Storage
Business Storage
Choosing a Storage Unit Size
Determining the right storage unit size is one of the more challenging aspects of renting a storage unit. We provide answers to the most common questions below.
What are the typical storage unit sizes?
Though there are smaller and larger storage units at certain locations, the most common sizes are:
- 5×5
- 5×10
- 10×10
- 10×15
- 10×20
- 10×25
- 10×30
How big of a storage unit do I need?
Figuring out what size of storage unit you need isn’t always easy to visualize. Though not a perfect system, the easiest way to discuss storage unit sizes is discussing the amount of living space that is going into storage, and in some cases, specific items that are being stored.
One-Bedroom Apartment
A 5×15 (75 sq. ft.) or 10×10 storage unit (100 sq. ft.) is best for a one-bedroom apartment.
Two-Bedroom Apartment
For those with less to store, a 10×10 storage unit (100 sq. ft.) will be a great fit. If you’re maximizing the space in your two-bedroom apartment, it’s more likely that a 10×15 (150 sq. ft.) will fit your needs.
Three-Bedroom House
A 10×25 storage unit (250 sq. ft.) is the most commonly used storage unit for a three-bedroom house. With the contents of the house, as well as yard and outdoor items like lawnmowers and grills, a little more space is needed!
Four-Bedroom House
For four or five-bedroom houses, a 10×30 storage unit (300 sq. ft.) should provide ample space.
Storing a Car
This depends on the length of the car you’re storing, but the majority of cars fall between 15 and 20 feet in length, making the 10×20 storage unit perfect for most cars.
Storing a Motorcycle
A 5×10 (50 sq. ft.) is typically more than enough space for a single motorcycle. If you’re looking to store multiple bikes, a 10×10 or larger will be your best option.
What’s the typical storage unit height?
The most common ceiling height for storage units at our locations is approximately 8’. Certain storage units do have higher ceilings that can accommodate taller vehicles and other large items. In larger cities where locker-sized units are more popular, reduced-height storage units that are less than 8’ are also available.
Can I change storage unit sizes after I’ve moved in?
If you rented too little or too much space, we’ll be happy to help you get switched into a storage unit that better matches your needs as long as that size is available at the location.
For more information on storage unit sizes and choosing the best option for you, visit our storage unit size guide.
Storage Unit Types
What type of storage unit do I need?
There are several different storage unit types to consider, and each offer their own benefits. Learn more about your options below.
Drive-Up Storage Units
This is likely what most people think of when discussing storage units. Drive-up units allow you to pull your vehicle right up to your storage space to load and unload belongings, making them great for those storing large, heavy items.
Most drive-up storage units are configured in rows and are not within a building structure. In some cases, though, drive up storage units can be located in covered, indoor spaces.
Learn more about drive-up access storage.
Extended-Height Storage Units
Though 8’ is the standard storage unit height, we do offer storage units with higher ceilings at certain locations. If you’re storing taller vehicles or large items that require higher ceilings, this is exactly what you’re looking for.
Interior Storage Units
These storage units are located within a building structure. Though vehicles typically can’t pull directly up to interior or indoor storage units, they have their own advantages. Many prefer the comfort of storing their belongings inside of a building, and those who want climate-controlled storage will typically be choosing an interior storage unit.
Learn more about indoor storage units.
First-Floor Access Storage Units
Many locations that offer interior storage units have multiple floors. Storage units on the first floor of these buildings provide the easiest access for loading and unloading.
Elevator Access Storage Units
Interior storage units on the second floor and up are referred to as elevator or lift access storage units. Though not quite as simple to access, elevators make getting your belongings to and from the storage unit a painless process.
Reduced-Height Storage Units
Most storage units are 8’ tall, but in larger cities where space is limited, we often offer reduced-height storage units perfect for anyone with small storage needs that’s looking to save a little money.
Rolling-Stair Access Storage Units
Another popular option in large cities is rolling-stair access storage units, which are stacked on top of each other and are perfect for anyone looking to store smaller items for less.
Climate-Controlled Storage
What is climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage means that your storage space will be in a temperature-controlled environment that remains between 55 and 85 degrees at all times. This makes them the preferred option for anyone storing temperature sensitive items.
Do I need climate-controlled storage?
That depends on several factors. Climate-controlled storage might be worth it to you if:
- You live in an area with extreme high and/or low temperatures
- You’re storing valuable items that shouldn’t be exposed to severe temperatures
- You plan on using storage for an extended period of time
What items need climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage can be beneficial for several common household items. We have a comprehensive list for you to use, but some of the most common are:
- Collectibles such as artwork, stamp collections, record collections, and more
- Electronics such as TVs, gaming systems, stereos, computers, and cameras
- Books, clothing, personal records, and more
- Photos and negatives, film reels, cassettes, and more
- Furniture including wood and leather furniture
For a comprehensive look into climate-controlled storage and its benefits, click the button below.
Vehicle Storage
Can you store a car in a storage unit?
Yes! Only working cars are allowed to be stored inside storage units, but this is allowed. 10×20 storage units are big enough for most cars, while some longer trucks will need a 10×25 storage unit.
Does a car in storage need insurance?
All vehicles stored at Extra Space Storage must be registered and insured under an existing auto policy.
Can I work on a car in a storage unit?
Other than minor maintenance to a running car, storage units cannot be used as a work shop to work on a car.
Learn more about car storage today!
Can you store a motorcycle in a storage unit?
Absolutely! For a single motorcycle, a 5×10 storage unit should be big enough. If you plan to store more than one, a larger storage unit will likely be needed.
Do storage facilities offer RV and boat storage solutions?
At Extra Space Storage, we offer outdoor parking, covered parking, and indoor storage solutions for RVs and boats of all sizes. Learn more about RV storage and boat storage today!
Visit our vehicle storage page to get a comprehensive overview of the solutions we offer for car, motorcycle, RV, and boat storage!
Business Storage
Can you run a business out of a storage unit?
Extra Space Storage is committed to offering business-friendly storage solutions. Our storage units provide convenient, affordable space to store inventory and parts and materials, offer warehouse storage space for businesses with large storage needs, and we have business centers at select locations with office space and amenities like wi-fi available for businesses to operate from our facility.
Can I use a storage unit as an office?
Select Extra Space Storage locations offer office space for rent where you can set up an office. But at most of our self storage facilities, storage units can only be used for storing items.
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