What Fits in a 5 x 10 Storage Unit

When it comes to choosing a storage unit, selecting the right size is key.

If you select a storage unit that is too small that you are forced to stack and tightly cram in your possessions, they are at risk of damage. This is especially true for the items at the bottom of the stack. You want a unit that provides enough space for easy access to all of your items.

When you rent a storage unit that is too large, you end up wasting your money. To store your possessions smartly, it’s important to find the right-size storage unit for your needs.

Storage units range in size from mini storage like 5’ x 5’ units to extra large storage like 10’ x 30 units. To find the best storage solution for your needs, you need to understand what fits inside each unit.

In this guide, we’ll discuss what can fit inside of a 5’ x 10’ storage unit.

As the second smallest storage unit size at EZ Storage, a 5’ x 10’ storage unit is ideal for both small business and personal storage. They are ideal for people looking to reduce the clutter in their homes. They’re great for seasonal storage, larger sentimental items, and small business inventory. 5’ x 10’ storage units are also well suited for temporary moving and storage for people with minimal storage needs like students living in a dorm or studio apartment dwellers.

A 5’ x 10’ storage unit can hold items including:

• Queen-sized, full-sized, or twin-sized mattresses and bed frames
• Dressers
• Televisions
• Seasonal items like holiday deco
• Chairs
• Loveseat
• Lamps
• Coffee tables
• Small appliances like toasters, microwaves, air conditioning units, and fans
• Larger appliances like washing machines
• Gardening supplies & lawn equipment
• Tools
• Small motorcycles or scooters
• Bicycles
• Sports and fitness gear
• Collectibles
• Instruments
• Books
• Small office equipment
• Extra inventory
• Personal records
• Luggage

A good rule of thumb is that a 5’ x 10’ unit can hold around 20-30 boxes depending on the size. Keep in mind that although the space is larger than the smallest unit, it is still a smaller unit. So if you are looking to store multiple items you need to be strategic about how you store them.

Shelving units, stackable boxes, and packing supplies to insulate and protect your valuables can help you maximize the space.

What Will Not Fit In A 5’ x 10’ Self-Storage Space

Just like many things can fit into a 5’ x 10’ storage unit, there are many things that cannot. Here is a list of common items that are too large to fit into a 5’ x 10’ storage rental:

• Vehicles
• Boats and jet skis
• King-sized mattresses and bed frames
• Large tables
• Sofas and sectionals
• Large equipment
• Extra large tools like a planer and table saw
• Extra large appliances

For these larger items, you will need to find self-storage that is larger. Here is our helpful guide to storage unit sizing to help you find which size best meets your needs. Keep in mind that when it comes to self-storage, you always want to err on the larger size.

Determining The Size Of The Storage Unit You Need

If you’re not sure which sized unit will meet your needs, you can start by reading our guide to choosing storage unit sizes.

The first step to determine your storage needs is to start by making a list of everything you need to store. Then you will measure each of the items you are planning to put in storage.

Storage units are measured in volume. So it would be 5’ (width) x 10’ (depth) x 8’ (height) or 800 cu. ft. For each of your items, you will then measure the height, width, and depth.

From there you can calculate if your items will or will not fit. Keep in mind some strategies can help you save space in a 5×10 unit.

Strategic Packing Saves Space

You can get a lot of possessions in your storage unit if you are strategic.

Utilize the height

First, you want to make sure you are taking advantage of the height of the unit. Most storage units typically have 8-foot tall ceilings, the standard ceiling height. Stacking can help you take advantage of the vertical space. Review your items and think about what items could be stacked on top of one another.

Stack smart

A good idea to help you stack is to purchase some stackable totes. These will protect your items while they are stacked. Stack heavier items at the bottom and lighter at the top.

Use shelving

Another option is to put in some shelving that can take advantage of the vertical space. Shelves don’t just help you take advantage of the space. They keep your possessions organized and safe. Putting a shelving unit in your storage space is also a good idea for small businesses to manage their inventory or store documents.

Organization Optimizes Your Storage Space

One of the best ways to take advantage of your storage space is by getting organized.

Once you know what you are going to store, you should invest in some packing supplies that can keep you organized. We recommend clear tubs and storage boxes. They help you see what you have stored. You also want to label all your possessions to make them easy to find.

When placing items in your storage rental, think strategically. The items you are most likely to access should be at the front and top, where they are easy to access. Those that you are less likely to access should be packed at the back and bottom where they are not in the way of the items you most often access.

Staying organized will not only help you save space, but it will also make accessing your possessions easier.

How To Find Self-Storage To Fit Your Needs

5×10 are smaller storage units, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t full of your most important possessions.

Choosing the right self storage company will keep your possessions safe. Look for a self-storage company that offers secure storage. They typically have security features like a fenced property that is well-lit, has controlled gate access, door alarms, and security cameras. Another consideration is how long you need to store your items.

If you only need storage short term, look for a place that offers month-to-month rental options. This is also helpful if you need to upgrade your 5×10 storage unit to a larger storage solution.

When you are ready to rent a storage unit, contact EZ Storage. With three convenient self-storage locations, we provide secure, storage services for all your needs.