Self Storage Size Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the storage unit size you'll need based on the items you plan to store. Simply enter the quantity of each item, and we'll recommend an appropriate unit size.
Understanding Self Storage Unit Sizes
Choosing the right self-storage unit size is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective storage experience. Too small, and your items won't fit; too large, and you're paying for unused space. Our Self Storage Size Calculator helps you estimate the ideal unit size based on a detailed inventory of your belongings.
Why Use a Storage Size Calculator?
- Save Money: Avoid renting a unit larger than you need.
- Ensure Fit: Confirm all your items will comfortably fit without damage.
- Plan Ahead: Get a clear idea of your storage needs before visiting facilities.
- Optimize Packing: Understand how much space items take up to pack more efficiently.
Common Storage Unit Sizes and What They Hold:
- 5×5 (25 sq ft): Comparable to a small closet. Ideal for boxes, small furniture, seasonal items, or a few small appliances.
- 5×10 (50 sq ft): Similar to a walk-in closet. Can hold the contents of a studio apartment or a small 1-bedroom apartment, including a mattress set, sofa, chairs, and several boxes.
- 10×10 (100 sq ft): The size of an average bedroom. Suitable for a 1-2 bedroom apartment, including major appliances, furniture, and many boxes.
- 10×15 (150 sq ft): Can hold the contents of a 2-3 bedroom house. Perfect for larger furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes.
- 10×20 (200 sq ft): The size of a standard one-car garage. Accommodates a 3-4 bedroom house, including large appliances, multiple furniture sets, and even a car or small boat.
- 10×30 (300 sq ft): A very large unit, like an oversized garage. Ideal for a 4-5 bedroom house, vehicles, large equipment, or business inventory.
Tips for Maximizing Your Storage Space:
- Disassemble Furniture: Beds, tables, and desks take up less space when taken apart.
- Stack Vertically: Utilize the height of your unit by stacking boxes and items securely.
- Use Uniform Boxes: Standard-sized boxes stack more efficiently.
- Create an Aisle: Leave a small path to access items at the back of your unit.
- Label Everything: Clearly label boxes on multiple sides for easy identification.
- Protect Items: Use furniture covers, blankets, and bubble wrap to prevent damage.
Remember, this calculator provides an estimate. The actual space needed can vary based on how efficiently you pack and stack your items. If in doubt, it's often better to go slightly larger than too small.
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function calculateStorageSize() {
var smallBoxes = parseInt(document.getElementById('smallBoxes').value) || 0;
var mediumBoxes = parseInt(document.getElementById('mediumBoxes').value) || 0;
var largeBoxes = parseInt(document.getElementById('largeBoxes').value) || 0;
var armchairs = parseInt(document.getElementById('armchairs').value) || 0;
var sofas = parseInt(document.getElementById('sofas').value) || 0;
var diningTables = parseInt(document.getElementById('diningTables').value) || 0;
var beds = parseInt(document.getElementById('beds').value) || 0;
var dressers = parseInt(document.getElementById('dressers').value) || 0;
var desks = parseInt(document.getElementById('desks').value) || 0;
var bookshelves = parseInt(document.getElementById('bookshelves').value) || 0;
var washerDryer = parseInt(document.getElementById('washerDryer').value) || 0;
var refrigerators = parseInt(document.getElementById('refrigerators').value) || 0;
var bicycles = parseInt(document.getElementById('bicycles').value) || 0;
var lawnMowers = parseInt(document.getElementById('lawnMowers').value) || 0;
var patioSets = parseInt(document.getElementById('patioSets').value) || 0;
var totalSqFt = 0;
// Estimated square footage (footprint, assuming some stacking)
totalSqFt += smallBoxes * 0.5;
totalSqFt += mediumBoxes * 0.75;
totalSqFt += largeBoxes * 1;
totalSqFt += armchairs * 5;
totalSqFt += sofas * 15;
totalSqFt += diningTables * 20;
totalSqFt += beds * 30;
totalSqFt += dressers * 10;
totalSqFt += desks * 10;
totalSqFt += bookshelves * 5;
totalSqFt += washerDryer * 15;
totalSqFt += refrigerators * 10;
totalSqFt += bicycles * 5;
totalSqFt += lawnMowers * 8;
totalSqFt += patioSets * 15;
var recommendedUnit = "";
var unitDescription = "";
if (totalSqFt <= 0) {
recommendedUnit = "Please enter the quantity of items you wish to store.";
unitDescription = "";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 25) {
recommendedUnit = "5×5 unit (25 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "Suitable for boxes, small furniture, or seasonal items.";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 50) {
recommendedUnit = "5×10 unit (50 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "Can hold the contents of a studio apartment or a small 1-bedroom apartment.";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 100) {
recommendedUnit = "10×10 unit (100 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "Ideal for a 1-2 bedroom apartment, including major appliances and furniture.";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 150) {
recommendedUnit = "10×15 unit (150 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "Fits the contents of a 2-3 bedroom house, including larger furniture and appliances.";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 200) {
recommendedUnit = "10×20 unit (200 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "Comparable to a one-car garage, suitable for a 3-4 bedroom house or a vehicle.";
} else if (totalSqFt <= 300) {
recommendedUnit = "10×30 unit (300 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "A very large unit, ideal for a 4-5 bedroom house, vehicles, or extensive business inventory.";
} else {
recommendedUnit = "10×30 unit or larger (over 300 sq ft)";
unitDescription = "For very large storage needs, consider multiple units or consult directly with a storage facility.";
}
var resultDiv = document.getElementById('result');
resultDiv.innerHTML = "
Estimated Storage Needs:
" +
"
Total Estimated Square Footage: " + totalSqFt.toFixed(1) + " sq ft" +
"
Recommended Unit Size: " + recommendedUnit + "" +
"" + unitDescription + "";
}
// Initial calculation on page load to show default state
window.onload = calculateStorageSize;