Questions about storage unit sizes
Is a 10x10 storage unit twice the size of a 5x10?
Yes, by floor area. A 5x10 provides about 50 square feet, while a 10x10 provides about 100 square feet. Similarly, a 10x20 provides about 200 square feet—twice the floor area of a 10x10. That does not mean every item or packing arrangement scales the same way: room shape, door placement, furniture dimensions, usable height, and access space still affect what fits.
Can I choose a size based on the number of bedrooms?
Bedroom estimates are a useful starting point, but they are not a guarantee. Two homes with the same number of bedrooms can have very different amounts of furniture, garage contents, and boxed belongings. How you pack matters, too: furniture that comes apart, sturdy stackable boxes, and the dimensions of your largest items all affect usable space.
Some people want room to walk between belongings and find things throughout their stay. Others want to fit as much as possible into the unit and expect to unload it together later. Decide how you will use the space, then compare your item list and packing plan with the examples above.
What if I’m deciding between two sizes?
If you think your belongings fall between two sizes and you want space to reach things, choose the larger size. A smaller unit might hold the same belongings when packed tightly, but fitting everything inside and being able to get to it are different needs.
Consider how safely you can stack boxes, whether furniture can be taken apart, and how often you will visit. Allow an aisle and space near items you need regularly. If you mainly want the most compact fit and will remove everything together, a tighter arrangement may work. We can help you compare the actual units before you reserve.
How should I pack my belongings to maximize usable space?
Start with a simple plan. Take apart suitable bed frames and tables, keep hardware in labeled bags with the matching furniture, and use sturdy boxes or totes in consistent sizes so they stack efficiently. Put heavy items low, lighter items above them, and avoid placing weight on fragile belongings.
Freestanding shelving can make good use of height while keeping boxes and smaller items easier to reach. Choose stable shelves with suitable weight ratings and account for their depth in your layout. Label containers on the sides facing your access path, keep frequently used items near the opening, and leave the walking space you need. Free pallets are available for use at all three facilities; include their height and footprint in your plan.
Is a 5x10 storage unit the same size as a 10x5?
Both have about 50 square feet of nominal floor area. The difference can be which side has the door and how you enter the space. The door also needs clearance to close, which typically leaves a 10x5 layout with slightly less usable storage space than a 5x10. Keep belongings clear of the door’s closing path. A long sofa or mattress may fit differently depending on the opening and approach, even when the nominal floor area is the same. Prescott lists a 10x5 layout; confirm the actual layout and door clearance when comparing units.
Can I stand a sofa or mattress on end to save space?
Sometimes, if the item’s construction, condition, and dimensions allow it. An upright sofa can use less floor space, and dismantling a bed frame can make its parts easier to pack. Follow the furniture or mattress manufacturer’s storage guidance, protect surfaces, and keep items stable. Some mattresses and upholstered furniture can be damaged by unsuitable positioning or prolonged pressure. Check usable height and door clearance before relying on the upright arrangements shown in the illustrations.
Does the unit size tell me how wide or tall the door is?
No. A size such as 10x20 describes the nominal floor dimensions, not the door opening or usable height. Door width, overhead clearance, and the space needed to turn an item into the unit can determine whether it fits. Measure belongings that cannot be taken apart and contact the location to confirm the specific unit’s opening and interior clearances.
Can I store a car or boat together with household belongings?
Yes, when the complete load fits inside a suitable regular enclosed unit. Plan separate space for the vehicle and the belongings rather than using the unit’s full household estimate and then adding a car or boat. Our 10x30, 10x35, and 12x35 illustrations show examples of these combined layouts.
For a vehicle, include mirrors, racks, and bumper-to-bumper length. For a boat, include the entire trailer, tongue, motor, fenders, and highest point. Leave room to maneuver, reach what you need, and close the door. Confirm the actual vehicle or boat dimensions and the specific unit with us before reserving.
Are all sizes available at every Stephen’s location?
No. Unit sizes, layouts, and types differ among Oakdale, Cottage Grove / Hastings, and Prescott. Cottage Grove and Hastings are separate city pages for the same physical facility. Compare the location pages for current sizes, rates, and availability, and contact the location about a particular layout.
What information should I have ready when asking for help choosing a unit?
Bring a list of your main furniture, appliances, and equipment; approximate box or tote counts and sizes; and measurements of your largest items. Tell us what can be taken apart, whether you plan to use shelves, and whether you want a tight fit or room to reach belongings during your stay. If a vehicle or boat is included, provide its complete dimensions. Contact your preferred location so we can help you compare suitable sizes before you reserve.