What Storage Unit Size Do I Need? 7 Sizes, What Fits, Costs
Not sure if you need a 5×5 or a 10×20? You’re not alone. Choosing a storage unit that’s too small leads to repacking and frustration; too large and you’re paying for air. The trick is matching your items—sofas, mattresses, appliances, and stacks of boxes—to the right square footage and ceiling height, while factoring in things like climate protection and how often you’ll need to get in and out.
This guide makes that easy. Below, we break down seven common storage sizes (from closet-sized 5×5 to oversized 10×30) with clear examples of what fits, who each size is best for, and real-world comparable spaces so you can visualize capacity at a glance. You’ll also see typical Sioux City price ranges and why Keyless Storage’s climate-controlled, ground-floor, 24/7 keyless-access units are a smart match for each scenario. By the end, you’ll know exactly which size to rent—and you can reserve it online in minutes. Let’s find your perfect fit.
1. 5×5 storage unit (closet-sized) — available at Keyless Storage
Think of the 5×5 as your extra closet when you’re wondering “what storage unit size do I need” for a few boxes and small furniture. At approximately 25 square feet with typical 8-foot ceilings, it delivers surprising vertical capacity without overbuying space.
What fits in this size
This size excels when you pack vertically and keep an aisle. It’s ideal for a tight, organized stack of essentials rather than bulky sets.
- Twin/full mattress upright: Fits easily; a queen is a squeeze (5×10 is better).
- Small furniture: Dresser, nightstand, accent chair, end tables.
- Appliances/smalls: Floor lamp, fan, compact TV, mini-fridge.
- Boxes and bins: Several small-to-medium moving boxes.
- Seasonal gear: Holiday décor, totes, and sports equipment.
- Documents/photos: Archive boxes, framed art kept protected.
Best for
Use a 5×5 when you need short-term breathing room or long-term preservation without paying for empty floor space.
- Decluttering a room or closet
- Students between semesters
- Seasonal rotation (decor, coats, gear)
- Files, photos, and collectibles that need climate control
Typical Sioux City cost
As the smallest climate-controlled unit, a 5×5 is typically the most affordable monthly option. Rates vary by availability, season, and promotions. Check live Keyless Storage pricing to lock in the best current rate.
Comparable space
Roughly the size of a small walk-in or storage closet. With standard ceilings, capacity is about 25 sq ft x 8 ft = ~200 cu ft, letting you stack boxes up to safe heights and slide a slim furniture piece along the wall.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
Small items and keepsakes deserve big protection. Keyless Storage keeps your 5×5 easy to access and safe year-round.
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect photos, documents, electronics, and textiles.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: No keys to lose; grab a box anytime.
- Ground-floor loading: Faster in/out with fewer trips.
- 24/7 video security: Added peace of mind for valuables.
2. 5×10 storage unit (small walk-in closet)
When you’re asking “what storage unit size do I need” for a studio or a mid-sized bedroom, the 5×10 is the sweet spot. At 50 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings, you get roughly 400 cubic feet of stackable space—enough for core furniture, appliances, and organized rows of boxes without moving up to a 10×10.
What fits in this size
You’ll maximize this size by standing large pieces upright and using uniform boxes. Keep a slim aisle for access.
- Queen or king mattress upright: Comfortable fit with room for frames.
- Core furniture: Dresser, nightstands, bookcase, small desk.
- Seating: Couch or loveseat; a few chairs.
- Appliances: Standard refrigerator.
- Vehicles/gear: Most motorcycles with helmets and riding bins.
- Boxes and totes: Stacks of medium boxes and seasonal storage.
Best for
Choose a 5×10 when you’re consolidating a room or moving light.
- Studio apartment or mid-sized bedroom contents
- Dorm-to-home or summer student storage
- Room-by-room renovations
- Motorcycle storage with gear
- Seasonal decor and sports equipment
Typical Sioux City cost
As a small climate-controlled unit, 5×10 pricing sits just above a 5×5 and below mid-size units. Rates shift with demand and promotions—check live Keyless Storage availability to secure the best current monthly price.
Comparable space
Think a small walk-in closet you can step into and stack high. Volume is about 50 sq ft x 8 ft = ~400 cu ft, which comfortably supports vertical rows of boxes plus a couch or fridge along the wall.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect mattresses, wood furniture, electronics, and leather gear.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Grab or drop items on your schedule.
- Ground-floor access: Easier moves for couches and refrigerators.
- 24/7 video security: Continuous monitoring for peace of mind.
3. 5×15 storage unit (large walk-in closet)
If you’re asking “what storage unit size do I need” for a full bedroom plus extras, the 5×15 is a strong upgrade. With 75 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings, you get about 600 cubic feet—enough to avoid cramming while keeping costs below a 10×10.
What fits in this size
Pack taller items upright, use uniform boxes, and leave a narrow access aisle. This size handles a complete room and several bulky add-ons without feeling tight.
- Bedroom set: Queen/king mattress and frame, dresser, nightstands.
- Living pieces: Sofa or loveseat, accent chairs, TV stand.
- Work/dining: Small desk, kitchen table with 2–4 chairs.
- Appliances: Washer/dryer set or a standard refrigerator.
- Boxes/bins: Multiple medium boxes plus a few wardrobe boxes.
- Extras: Floor lamps, area rugs, framed art, small shelving.
Best for
It’s the “small apartment move” hero—flexible for life transitions and projects. Medium units like this also shine for organized long-term storage.
- Contents of a large bedroom or small 1-bedroom/condo
- In-between-home storage or room-by-room renovations
- Business inventory, materials, and equipment
Typical Sioux City cost
A 5×15 climate-controlled unit typically prices between a 5×10 and a 10×10. Rates vary with availability and promotions—check live Keyless Storage pricing to secure the best current monthly rate.
Comparable space
Picture a large walk-in closet with generous depth. Volume is about 75 sq ft x 8 ft = ~600 cu ft, giving you room for a full bedroom set plus a sofa or major appliance.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
Furniture, appliances, and keepsakes benefit from stable temperature and easy access. Keyless Storage makes every trip efficient and secure.
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect wood, fabrics, and electronics.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Access your unit on your schedule.
- Ground-floor loading: Simpler moves for sofas and appliances.
4. 10×10 storage unit (half of a one-car garage)
If you’re torn between medium and large, the 10×10 is the national benchmark most people picture when asking “what storage unit size do I need” for an apartment. With 100 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings (about 800 cubic feet), it comfortably holds the contents of a one to two-bedroom apartment without overpaying for unused space.
What fits in this size
This size rewards good stacking and a simple center aisle. Stand mattresses and sofas on edge, use uniform boxes, and load heavier items on the bottom.
- Bedroom sets: Queen/king mattresses, frames, dressers, nightstands.
- Living room set: Full-size sofa or sectional pieces, coffee/end tables, TV stand.
- Appliances: Refrigerator, washer/dryer, or chest freezer.
- Dining pieces: Table with 4–6 chairs, sideboard.
- Bulky extras: Bicycles, patio set, tools/shelving, area rugs.
- Fragile/valuable items: Instruments (even a grand piano), electronics, framed art—benefit from climate control.
- Boxes and bins: Dozens of medium boxes stacked safely up to shoulder height.
Best for
A versatile mid-size unit that handles big life moments and steady, organized storage.
- 1–2 bedroom apartment contents
- Moves, deployments, or long remodels
- Business inventory, samples, and equipment
- Household overflow (garage cleanouts, seasonal rotation)
Typical Sioux City cost
As a mid-size climate-controlled unit, 10×10 rates typically sit between smaller lockers and larger 10×15/10×20 units. Pricing fluctuates with demand and promotions—check live Keyless Storage availability to secure today’s best monthly rate.
Comparable space
About half of a standard one-car garage or a large family room. Capacity is roughly 100 sq ft x 8 ft = ~800 cu ft. Plan a narrow aisle down the center so you can reach labeled stacks along both walls.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect wood furniture, mattresses, electronics, and instruments year-round.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Instant, keyless access for late-night drop-offs or early pickups.
- Ground-floor loading: No stairs or elevators—easier on sofas and appliances.
- 24/7 video security: Continuous monitoring for added peace of mind.
- Online rental and account management: Reserve in minutes and manage your unit from anywhere.
5. 10×15 storage unit (2–3 rooms of furniture)
If you’re wondering “what storage unit size do I need” for a bigger move without jumping to a garage-sized unit, the 10×15 is that just-right middle. With 150 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings (about 1,200 cubic feet), it handles two to three rooms of furniture with room to keep a workable aisle.
What fits in this size
Pack tall pieces upright, stack uniform boxes, and keep heavier items on the bottom to maximize the footprint.
- 2–3 bedrooms of furniture: Queen/king beds, dressers, nightstands.
- Living room set: Full sofa or sectional pieces, coffee/end tables, media console.
- Dining pieces: Table with 4–6 chairs; buffet/sideboard.
- Major appliances: Refrigerator, washer/dryer, or chest freezer.
- Bulky extras: Bicycles, patio set, tool chests/shelving, area rugs.
- Boxes/bins: Dozens of medium boxes plus a few wardrobes and totes.
Best for
- Two-bedroom apartment or smaller home contents
- Staging a home or remodeling multiple rooms
- Business inventory/equipment with room to access
- Longer-term storage where safe aisles matter
Typical Sioux City cost
A 10×15 climate-controlled unit typically prices between a 10×10 and a 10×20. Actual monthly rates vary by availability, season, and promotions—check live Keyless Storage pricing to secure the best current deal.
Comparable space
Roughly the size of a large bedroom. Capacity is about 150 sq ft x 8 ft = ~1,200 cu ft, giving you space to line big pieces along the walls and stack labeled boxes to shoulder height with a center aisle.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect wood finishes, mattresses, electronics, and fabrics.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Keyless access means you can swap boxes or grab a tool anytime.
- Ground-floor loading: No elevators—easier moves for sofas and appliances.
- 24/7 video security: Continuous monitoring for added peace of mind.
- Online rental and account management: Reserve in minutes, manage from anywhere.
6. 10×20 storage unit (standard one-car garage)
If you’re weighing “what storage unit size do I need” for a whole-home move, the 10×20 is the classic garage-sized solution. With 200 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings (about 1,600 cubic feet), it swallows multiple large furniture sets, major appliances, and rows of labeled boxes—so you can store a multi-bedroom home without playing Tetris.
What fits in this size
Pack tall items upright, stack uniform boxes, and run a center or U-shaped aisle so you can reach what you need mid-storage.
- Multi-room furniture: Multiple bedroom sets, sectional or large sofa, coffee/end tables.
- Appliances: Refrigerator, washer/dryer, chest freezer.
- Dining + bulky items: Full dining set with 6–8 chairs, buffet/sideboard, china cabinet.
- Garage/outdoor: Patio set, tool chests, shelving, totes, bicycles.
- Boxes and bins: Dozens of medium boxes plus wardrobes.
- Vehicles (general note): Many 10x20s fit a standard sedan if the facility permits vehicle storage—always confirm first.
Best for
- Contents of a multi-bedroom house
- Whole-home renovations or staging
- Combining households or major downsizing
- Business storage for inventory, racking, samples, and equipment
Typical Sioux City cost
As a large climate-controlled unit, the 10×20 prices above mid-size options like 10×10 and 10×15. Actual monthly rates depend on demand, season, and promotions—check live Keyless Storage availability to secure today’s best price.
Comparable space
Roughly a standard one-car garage. Capacity is about 200 sq ft x 8 ft = ~1,600 cu ft. Place tallest pieces along the back wall, appliances to one side, and box stacks along the other, leaving an aisle for easy access.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect wood finishes, mattresses, electronics, and fabrics from heat/cold swings.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Keyless access for late-night drop-offs and early pickups.
- All ground-floor: Roll big items straight in—no elevators or stairs.
- 24/7 video security: Continuous monitoring for added peace of mind.
- Online rental + waitlist: Reserve in minutes; join a waitlist if this high-demand size is filled.
7. 10×30 storage unit (oversized garage)
When your life doesn’t fit neatly into smaller boxes, a 10×30 answers the “what storage unit size do I need” question with breathing room to spare. At 300 square feet and typical 8-foot ceilings (about 2,400 cubic feet), it’s built for whole-house moves, large estates, and serious business storage without the squeeze.
What fits in this size
Plan tall items against the back and sides, stack uniform boxes, and keep a center or U-shaped aisle so you can reach what you need throughout your stay.
- Whole-home contents: Typically up to a 4–5 bedroom house.
- Multiple living sets: Sectional/sofa, recliners, coffee/end tables, media consoles.
- Bedrooms: Several queen/king beds, dressers, nightstands, wardrobes.
- Dining + bulky: Full dining set (6–8 chairs), buffet/china cabinet.
- Appliances: Refrigerator, washer/dryer, chest freezer.
- Garage/outdoor: Patio sets, tool chests, shelving, ladders, kayaks/bikes.
- Business storage: Palletized inventory, racking, samples, equipment.
- Vehicles (general note): Longer vehicles often require a 10×30 if the facility permits indoor vehicle storage—always confirm first.
Best for
- Large multi-bedroom home moves or estate consolidations
- Combining households or long renovations
- Contractors or businesses needing room to stage and access inventory
- Long items that don’t bend (sofas, rugs, lumber, ladders, kayaks)
Typical Sioux City cost
As one of the largest climate-controlled sizes, 10×30 rates sit above 10×20 units. Pricing varies with demand and promotions—check live Keyless Storage availability to lock in today’s best monthly rate.
Comparable space
Roughly an oversized one-car garage (close to a compact two-car bay). Capacity is about 300 sq ft x 8 ft = ~2,400 cu ft, giving you space to line walls with furniture and appliances and still maintain a workable aisle.
Why Keyless Storage is a smart match
- 100% climate-controlled: Helps protect wood finishes, electronics, antiques, textiles, and instruments.
- 24/7 smartphone entry: Keyless access for flexible schedules and shared family access.
- All ground-floor units: Roll in appliances, sectionals, and pallets without elevators.
- 24/7 video security: Continuous monitoring for added peace of mind.
- Online rental + waitlist: Reserve in minutes; join the waitlist if this high-demand size is full.
Ready to pick your unit
You’ve matched your items to a size—now make it official. With Keyless Storage, you can check live availability and pricing, reserve in minutes, and be moving in the same day. Every unit is ground-floor and 100% climate-controlled, with 24/7 smartphone entry and continuous video security, so your furniture, photos, electronics, and keepsakes stay protected and always within reach. If your preferred size is temporarily full, hop on the waitlist and we’ll alert you the moment it opens.
Ready when you are. Reserve your climate-controlled storage with keyless access today at Keyless Storage.
