How much storage space do I need?
Not sure what size storage unit to book? This guide breaks down storage sizes and helps you calculate exactly what you need.
Choosing the right storage unit size can save you money and hassle. Too small, and you won’t fit everything in. Too large, and you’re paying for space you don’t need. Let’s break down the most common storage sizes and help you find the perfect fit.
Quick storage size guide
Small storage (10–25 sq ft)
- Best for:
- Students, seasonal items, small flat contents
- What fits:
- 15–20 boxes, small furniture, sports equipment, bikes
- Price:
- From £4.75/week in Bradford
Medium storage (35–50 sq ft)
- Best for:
- 1-bedroom flat, small business inventory
- What fits:
- 30–40 boxes, sofa, chairs, double bed, small appliances
- Price:
- Most popular size — perfect balance of space and value
Large storage (75–100 sq ft)
- Best for:
- 2–3 bedroom house contents, growing businesses
- What fits:
- 50–70 boxes, full living room set, multiple beds, dining table
How to calculate your storage needs
Follow these simple steps to work out exactly what size unit you need:
- 1Make a complete inventory — List everything you plan to store, room by room.
- 2Measure large items — Note the dimensions of furniture, appliances, and equipment.
- 3Count your boxes — Standard moving boxes are roughly 1.5–2 cubic feet each.
- 4Use our calculator — Our free storage calculator does the maths for you.
- 5Add 10% breathing room — Leave space for easy access and future additions.
Pro tip
If you’re between sizes, it’s usually worth going for the larger unit. The small extra cost gives you room to organise properly and access items easily. At Space Buddy, you can upgrade or downgrade anytime with just 7 days’ notice.
Common storage scenarios
Student summer storage
Most Bradford students need a 25–35 sq ft unit for the summer holidays — fits clothes, textbooks, small furniture, and kitchen items. See our Bradford student storage guide for exclusive discounts and free campus pickup.
Moving house
Between properties? A 50–75 sq ft unit typically works for a 2-bedroom house. Read our moving house storage guide for tips on packing and timing.
Small business storage
E-commerce sellers might need 35–50 sq ft for inventory; tradespeople storing tools and equipment might only need 10–25 sq ft. For sole traders, side hustles and online resellers see our small business storage page — for established businesses with multi-pallet stock or archive at scale, see our business storage page.
Maximising your storage space
- Use uniform box sizes — they stack better and save space
- Disassemble furniture — beds and tables take up less room flat-packed
- Store vertically — stack boxes high, heavy items at the bottom
- Create aisles — leave pathways to access items easily
- Label everything — you'll thank yourself later
Ready to calculate your size?
Use our free storage calculator to get a personalised recommendation based on exactly what you need to store. Takes less than 2 minutes.