Skip to content

Storage unit size guide

Select from our range of storage unit sizes to find the right space for you
40 Sq. ft

40 Sq. ft Unit

8ft Long x 5ft Wide x 8ft High = 40 sq. ft

  • Contents of standard garden shed Contents of standard garden shed
  • Contents of 1 compact van Contents of 1 compact van
  • 50-75 storage boxes 50-75 storage boxes
See The Price
60 Sq. ft

60 Sq. ft Unit

8ft Long x 7.5ft Wide x 8ft High = 60 sq. ft

  • Contents of a standard garage Contents of a standard garage
  • Contents of 1 removal van Contents of 1 removal van
  • 75-100 storage boxes 75-100 storage boxes
See The Price
80 Sq. ft

80 Sq. ft Unit

8ft Long x 8ft Wide x 10ft High = 80 sq. ft

  • Contents of a 1-2 bed house or flat Contents of a 1-2 bed house or flat
  • Contents of 1 Luton van Contents of 1 Luton van
  • 100-150  boxes 100-150 boxes
See The Price
160 Sq. ft

160 Sq. ft Unit

8ft Long x 8ft Wide x 20ft High = 160 sq. ft

  • Contents of a 3-4 bed house or flat Contents of a 3-4 bed house or flat
  • Contents of 2 Luton vans Contents of 2 Luton vans
  • 250-300 boxes 250-300 boxes
See The Price
Our Storage Units Feature
  • Range of container sizes
    Range of container sizes
  • Security lights
    Security lights
  • Discounts for long-term
    Discounts for long-term
  • CCTV
    CCTV
  • Great value customer goods protection
    Great value customer goods protection
  • Coded gates
    Coded gates
  • Open 365 days a year
    Open 365 days a year
  • Drive up units
    Drive up units
  • Flexible short-term options
    Flexible short-term options
  • Safe and secure sites
    Safe and secure sites
  • paw-icon

Choose your nearest storage location:

Get Started

Choose your nearest storage location

What Our Customers Say?

We are the No. 1 rated self storage company in the UK on trustpilot

Storage unit size guide
Our customers

Self Storage Unit Sizes: How to Select the Right Size

Choosing the correct self-storage unit size can be challenging, but it’s essential to ensure you have enough space without paying for more than you need. At Blue Bear Storage, we’re here to help you find the perfect storage solution. If you’re unsure, please read on or contact us for assistance.

Try Visualising Your Storage Space Requirement with Real-world Comparisons

To help you choose the right self-storage unit size, it’s helpful to compare them to everyday spaces.

  • A 40 sq ft unit is about the size of a garden shed or a compact van and will take between 50 to 75 of our storage boxes.
  • A 60 sq ft unit is comparable to a single garage or a standard transit van.
  • An 80 sq ft unit can store the contents of a typical one to two-bedroom flat.
  • A 160 sq ft unit will accommodate the contents of a 3 to 4 bedroom house, and you would need a Luton-sized van to transfer this amount of items for storage in one drop.

Top Storage Tip: All our units are 8ft high (just over 2.4 metres). If you have taller items, you may need to lie them down in one of our longer units, which are up to 20 ft (6m) in length.

Calculating Your Storage Needs

To choose the right size storage unit, you need to accurately assess your storage needs. This process involves taking measurements, considering awkward or large-sized items, planning for future additions, and determining whether you need to access certain items regularly, which may involve having more space than just the overall volume and size of your items.

Many people find it challenging to determine what size storage unit they need, especially when faced with a range of options. Understanding self-storage unit sizes is crucial to ensure you have enough space for your items without overpaying for unused storage space.

Take Accurate Measurements

To start, gather a tape measure and notepad. Measure the height, width, and depth of each item you plan to store, noting dimensions in inches. For cabinets and drawers, measure the interior space. Don’t forget to account for any objects that might interfere with product placement, such as latches or hinges.

Storing Awkward Items

Some items are trickier to store due to their shape or size. For instance, piping or plumbing equipment can be long and awkward. Consider how you’ll arrange these items in your unit. Furniture like wardrobes or beds might need to be placed on their sides.

Allow for Future Storage Requirements

It’s always wise to choose a unit slightly larger than you think you need. This extra space allows for any items you might have forgotten about or future additions to your storage, and it also provides better access to your items when needed. It’s better to have a bit of wiggle room than to struggle with an overpacked unit.

Typical Use Profiles for Each Self Storage Size

Smaller units (40 sq ft) are ideal for decluttering or storing a few items. Mid-size units (60-80 sq ft) offer a good balance, fitting the contents of a one to two-bedroom house. They provide easier access but may be more than you need for just a few items. Larger units (160+ sq ft) are perfect for house moves or business storage, offering ample space in most cases, or you can have more than one unit.

Upgrading or Downsizing Options

You’re not tied to one size forever. If you find your unit becoming cramped, it’s easy to upgrade to a larger space. Conversely, if you’ve cleared out some items and have excess space, downsizing to a smaller unit can save you money. We offer flexible options to change your unit size as your needs evolve, ensuring you always have the right amount of space.

Making the Most of Your Chosen Unit

Maintaining Accessibility

Position frequently accessed items at the front of the unit. If you need regular access to most items, consider leaving an aisle. Divide your unit into sections, grouping similar items together for easy retrieval. Use shelving units to maximise vertical space and improve organisation. Remember to update your inventory system if you move items around to maintain easy access to your belongings. See our storage hints and tips for more advice on how to get the most from your storage with Blue Bear Storage.

Key Points

  • It’s always better to have a bit more space than to struggle with an overcrowded unit.
  • Efficient stacking methods, a well-organised inventory system, and thoughtful placement of items can transform your storage experience and maximise value for money.

Storage Size FAQs

How should I determine the appropriate size for a self-storage unit if moving house?

To choose the right size of a self-storage unit, consider the size of your home and what you need to store. For a studio or one to two bedroom flat, a unit size of 80sq would be suitable. For a three to four bedroom house or flat opt for a 160 sq ft unit. Read our detailed article about house move storage

Need to Know More About Our Units?

Image for Mobile
phone-icon 0203 981 2900
WhatsApp Us
paw-icon Get a price