Choosing the 5'x10' unit size
When you are on the lookout for a place outside your home to keep your belongings, deciding on the right unit size is paramount. You want to avoid renting a unit that is either too large or too small for the items you need to keep in storage.
To help make the best of your storage experience, we have put together an all-you-need-to-know storage guide for a 5'x10' unit to help you decide if this unit size is for you.
How big is a 5'x10' storage unit?
Simply put, it provides double the amount of space that a 5'x5' unit does. With around 50 square feet of floor space, along with a standard 8-foot ceiling, it provides about 400 cubic feet of storage space. This means you can take advantage of a sizeable amount of vertical space when packing your items. However, the height of the unit can sometimes vary from facility to facility. Overall, to get a better idea of the size of a 5'x10' unit, imagine an average-sized walk-in closet or a small bathroom.
What can you fit inside a 5'x10' storage unit?
The 5'x10' unit is one of the most popular choices among self storage users, thanks to its versatility and relative affordability. This unit type allows you to store items such as a mattress, a desk and a microwave — especially useful if you’re a student moving your belongings into storage. Moreover, the items that typically belong in a small bedroom can also be stored here, for example a queen size or twin mattress, nightstands, a small fridge, a TV, plus several small or mid-sized boxes.
A couch, a washer and dryer set, a fridge, seasonal décor, patio furniture, sports equipment such as a bike, a kayak and skiing- and snowboarding-related items can also be kept in this type of unit. The contents of a dining room, garage or small office can also fit into a 5'x10' unit.
Use vertical space when storing your items to make the most of the area, but place heavier boxes at the bottom to avoid damaging fragile items.
What are common uses for a 5'x10' storage unit?
Student storage
A 5'x10' storage unit generally allows you to store a few pieces of small furniture, along with a few boxes. That is why it is the preferred unit size for college students looking to store the contents of a dorm room or a studio apartment over the summer months.
Spare room or small apartment storage
A 5'x10' unit is also perfect if you’re looking to store the contents of a spare room. Small apartment dwellers in need of extra storage space can also find these units helpful, whether they are relocating or simply wish to keep their living space clutter-free.
Storage for home remodeling projects
Home remodeling projects are also instances when renting a 5'x10' unit can prove helpful to homeowners. The contents of the areas affected by the project can be put in this type of unit until the work is completed to avoid cluttering the rest of the home.
Business-related storage
Businesses can use self storage to extend their storage space outside their official premises. They can temporarily keep office furniture in a 5'x10' unit in between moves. A 5'x10' unit is spacious enough for some chairs, bookcases and filing cabinets. Moreover, business owners can also turn to renting this unit size to store extra inventory and office supplies.
How much does a 5'x10' storage unit cost?
Currently, the average price for a 5'x10' storage unit hovers around $78. However, rental rates can differ based on location and amenities such as climate control, video surveillance, the availability of an on-site manager and other factors.
Frequently asked questions
How many boxes can fit in a 5'x10' storage unit?
It depends on the size of the boxes. For instance, if you're storing large boxes, a 5'x10' unit can accommodate around 20 of them. You can maximize how many you store by packing them efficiently.
How do you organize a 5'x10' storage unit?
Start by using vertical space to make the most of your unit. Stack boxes around the sides, leaving a path so you can walk through the unit. Remember to put heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid damaging any sensitive items in them. Label all your boxes so you can easily find what you are looking for next time you visit the unit.
How many rooms can fit in a 5'x10' storage unit?
The contents of a mid-sized bedroom can fit in a 5'x10' unit or the belongings from a dorm room or a studio apartment.
Can you fit a couch in a 5'x10' storage unit?
Generally speaking, you can fit a couch in a 5'x10' unit. If it can fit in a mid-sized bedroom, a 5'x10' will probably be large enough. If, however, you wish to store a family-style sectional couch and you don't want to disassemble it, you should consider a larger unit, such as a 10'x10' unit or a 10'x15' unit.
Can a king- or queen-size bed fit in a 5'x10' unit?
A queen-size bed and mattress may just fit into a 5'x10' unit. A king-sized bed, however, would have to be disassembled or stored vertically — which is not a good option for the mattress. You may not be able to add too many other belongings, so you could consider upgrading to a larger unit if that would be preferable.
Can a bike fit in a 5'x10' storage unit?
Yes, a 5'x10' offers plenty of space for a bike, plus a few other items as well.
Can a motorcycle or a scooter fit in a 5'x10' storage unit?
There is enough room for a motorcycle or a scooter in a 5'x10' unit. You would also have plenty of extra space for items such as tools and riding gear.
Can a car fit in a 5'x10' storage unit?
A 5'x10' unit is not large enough to accommodate a car. A 10'x15' unit might be a possible option if your vehicle is a very compact one, otherwise go for a 10'x20'.
Do I need a 5'x10' climate-controlled self storage unit?
A 5'x10' unit with climate control offers some advantages over non-climate-controlled ones, with humidity and temperature kept at optimal levels to prevent deterioration of stored items. Appliances, electronics, books, clothing, furniture and musical instruments are some of the things that can benefit most from this feature.
Can I put garden tools in a 5'x10' storage unit?
A 5'x10' unit is excellent for seasonal items, including garden tools. Lawnmowers, leaf blowers and other types of outdoor equipment can comfortably stay here until you need them again.
What size moving truck do I need for a 5'x10' storage unit?
When moving items to fill a 5'x10' storage unit, you might need a 10 ft. moving truck to make sure there is room for everything you will be transporting.