What Storage Unit Size Works Best for Apartment Moves

storage unit size for apartment move

Choosing the right storage unit size for apartment move situations can make a huge difference in both cost and convenience. Whether you’re relocating from a studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartment, selecting the correct unit ensures you don’t overpay for unused space or underestimate how much room you actually need.

At Oquirrh View Storage, we help renters find the right fit among our Available Storage Units so they don’t overpay for space they don’t need or underestimate what their belongings require.

Match Storage Unit Size to Apartment Type

The simplest way to estimate your storage needs is by matching your apartment size to a standard storage unit recommendation. While every household is different, these general guidelines work for most moves:

  • Studio Apartment → 5×5 or 5×10 unit
    Best for small furniture, boxes, bedding, and compact essentials.
  • 1-Bedroom Apartment → 5×10 or 10×10 unit
    Fits furniture like a bed, couch, dining set, and multiple boxes.
  • 2-Bedroom Apartment → 10×10 or 10×15 unit
    Ideal for larger furniture sets, appliances, and 30–50+ boxes.

These are starting points—not strict rules. Your actual needs may vary depending on how much furniture and personal items you own.

Consider Furniture Volume, Not Just Square Footage

One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing a storage unit is focusing only on apartment size instead of actual belongings.

What matters most includes:

  • Number of beds and mattress sizes
  • Size of couches and sectionals
  • Appliances like refrigerators or washers
  • Total number of boxes and bins

A small apartment with heavy furniture may require more space than a larger apartment with minimal furnishings. Always evaluate volume, not just square footage.

Use Smart Stacking Strategies to Save Space

Efficient packing can significantly reduce the storage unit size you need. In many cases, proper stacking allows renters to downsize and save money.

Space-saving techniques include:

  • Stacking vertically to maximize height
  • Using uniform box sizes for stability
  • Adding portable shelving units for organization
  • Filling empty furniture space (drawers, cabinets, appliances)

When done correctly, vertical packing can turn a 10×10 need into a 5×10 unit, depending on furniture type.

This is especially helpful when reviewing Available Storage Units and trying to stay within a smaller, more affordable size.

Temporary vs Long-Term Storage Needs

How long you plan to store your items also affects the ideal unit size.

Temporary storage (moving between apartments)

  • Requires easier access
  • May need walkways for frequent item retrieval
  • Slightly larger unit often preferred for convenience

Long-term storage

  • Items can be packed tightly
  • No need for walkways
  • Smaller unit often sufficient

If you’re between apartments for only a short time, you may want a bit more space for accessibility. For long-term storage, maximizing space efficiency is more important than access.

Don’t Overpay for Extra Space

It’s common for renters to choose a unit that’s too large “just in case.” However, with proper planning, most apartment moves fit into a smaller unit than expected.

Before renting, take time to:

  • Inventory your furniture
  • Count your boxes
  • Visualize stacking layout

Then compare your needs with Available Storage Units to choose the most cost-effective option.

Get Help Choosing the Right Size

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to ask than to guess. Storage experts can quickly recommend the right size based on your apartment type and inventory.

At Oquirrh View Storage, we help customers match their move to the right unit so they can avoid overpaying while still having enough space for everything they need.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right storage unit for an apartment move comes down to planning ahead. By matching unit size to apartment type, considering furniture volume, and using smart packing strategies, you can avoid unnecessary costs and stress.

Start by exploring Available Storage Units and selecting a size that fits your move—not just your assumptions.

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