What to Look for in a Storage Space?
If you are planning on storing items during your move it is important to find the right storage space. Some important questions to ask may include:
- What are the storage space’s hours of availability?
- Do I need Climate Controlled Warehousing?
- Does your moving company offer storage options?
- Does the storage space offer insurance?
- And What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
Selecting the Right Size Storage Unit
Moving Calculator’s recommended storage unit sizes are based on the average weight of each household type. If you consider yourself a heavy packer, you may want to increase your storage unit size.
Below are the estimated weights and square footage we consider each move size. Based on your move size, we recommended an estimated storage unit size.
Small Studio
Estimated Square Feet: 300
Estimated Weight: 1,000 – 3,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 5 x 5 or 5 x 10 Unit
1 Bedroom Apartment
Estimated Square Feet: 550
Estimated Weight: 2,000 – 5,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 5 x 10 or 5 x 15 Unit
2 Bedroom Apartment
Estimated Square Feet: 850
Estimated Weight: 3,000 – 5,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 5 x 15 or 10 x 10 Unit
2 – 3 Bedroom Apartment
Estimated Square Feet: 1,000
Estimated Weight: 6,000 – 8,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 10 x 10 or 10 x 15 Unit
3 Bedroom Home
Estimated Square Feet: 1,500
Estimated Weight: 8,000 – 10,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 10 x 15 or 10 x 20 Unit
3 – 4 Bedroom Home
Estimated Square Feet: 2,500
Estimated Weight: 10,000 – 12,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 10 x 20 or 10 x 25 Unit
4 Bedroom Home
Estimated Square Feet: 3,500
Estimated Weight: 12,000 – 15,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 10 x 25 or 10 x 30 Unit
4 -5 Bedroom Home
Estimated Square Feet: 4,000+
Estimated Weight: 18,000 – 24,000 lbs.
Estimated Storage Unit Size = 10 x 30 or 10 x 30 plus a 10 x 10 Unit
Tips for Packing Your Storage Unit
- Pack boxes completely to avoid them crushing one another
- Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top
- Use uniform box sizes to save space while stacking
- Label boxes on all sides so you can read them while in storage
- Cover furniture with cardboard, moving blankets, or sheets to avoid scratching
- Cover the floor or use mattress bags when storing your mattress and box spring
- Disassemble any furniture to save space
- Keep items you need access to near the door of your storage unit
Find a Storage Space for Your Next Move
When calculating your estimated move costs using Moving Calculator you will be connected with moving companies that offer storage options. Whether you are looking to store with your moving company or find a separate storage facility, Moving Calculator’s network of trusted movers can recommended preferred storage options.