5×10 Storage Unit Size Guide
Sep 2, 2026 / Public Storage
How Self-Storage Helps During Office Renovations
Self-storage can make an office renovation easier by creating temporary space for furniture, equipment, files, and supplies. Moving nonessential items into a storage unit clears work areas for contractors, reduces workplace clutter, and helps protect office belongings from construction dust and debris. Flexible rental terms also make self-storage a practical option when renovation timelines change.
Key Takeaways
- Clear construction areas: Store desks, chairs, filing cabinets, décor, and other bulky items to give contractors more room to work.
- Protect office equipment: Climate-controlled storage can help protect sensitive items from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
- Maintain productivity: Keep frequently used supplies and essential files accessible while storing less-important items off-site.
- Choose the right unit size: A 10×10 or 10×20 storage unit may work for many small- to medium-sized office contents, depending on how much furniture and equipment you need to store.
- Keep renovation plans flexible: Month-to-month storage can accommodate projects that take longer than expected.
- Organize before moving: Label boxes and create an inventory so employees can quickly find items during the renovation.
1. Clear Space for Construction
Office renovations often require open areas for contractors, tools, building materials, and equipment. Furniture and office supplies left in the work area can create obstacles and may be exposed to dust, paint, or other construction debris.
Moving bulky or nonessential items into self-storage gives contractors more room to work while keeping office belongings organized and out of the renovation zone.
Items commonly stored during an office renovation include:
- Desks and conference tables
- Office chairs
- Filing cabinets
- Shelving and bookcases
- Computers and monitors
- Printers and other equipment
- Seasonal decorations
- Archived records and paperwork
- Extra office supplies
How Much Storage Do You Need?
The right storage unit size depends on the amount and type of property being stored. For example, a 10×10 unit provides 100 square feet of floor space, while a 10×20 unit provides 200 square feet. Actual storage capacity also depends on unit height and how efficiently items are packed.
| Storage Unit | Floor Space | May Work Well For |
|---|---|---|
| 5×10 | 50 sq. ft. | Small amounts of office furniture, supplies, or files |
| 10×10 | 100 sq. ft. | Furniture and contents from a small office or several work areas |
| 10×20 | 200 sq. ft. | Larger quantities of furniture, equipment, and office contents |
| Larger or multiple units | 200+ sq. ft. | Large offices, multiple departments, or extensive renovations |
Before renting, make a list of everything that needs to be stored and consider whether items can be disassembled to save space.
2. Protect Office Equipment From Construction
Construction can expose office belongings to dust, dirt, paint, and changing environmental conditions. Sensitive electronics and other materials should be packed and stored carefully during renovation work.
A climate-controlled storage unit can be useful for temperature- or humidity-sensitive belongings. These units are designed to maintain a more consistent indoor environment than traditional non-climate-controlled storage.
For additional protection:
- Back up important computer files before moving equipment.
- Use sturdy boxes designed for electronics when possible.
- Cover monitors and other equipment with protective materials.
- Keep electronics off the floor.
- Avoid overpacking boxes.
- Label fragile items clearly.
- Follow the storage facility’s rules for electronics and other restricted items.
Important: A climate-controlled unit does not guarantee that every item will be protected from damage. Proper packing and following the facility’s storage requirements are still important.
3. Keep Employees Productive During Renovations
An active construction site can make it difficult for employees to find supplies, move around the office, or concentrate on their work. Removing unnecessary items can make the temporary workspace easier to navigate.
Consider separating office belongings into three groups:
- Keep on-site: Frequently used equipment, supplies, and essential documents.
- Move to storage: Seasonal items, spare furniture, archived materials, and equipment that won’t be needed during construction.
- Dispose of or donate: Broken, outdated, or unnecessary items that no longer serve a purpose.
This approach can reduce clutter without putting important resources out of reach.
4. Make Office Items Easy to Find
A storage unit is most useful when your team can quickly locate what it needs. Before moving items, create a basic inventory and label every box.
For example, organize the unit by category:
- Front: Items you may need during the renovation
- Middle: Furniture and equipment needed later
- Back: Long-term storage and archived materials
Leave a clear walkway whenever possible, and avoid stacking boxes where they could become unstable or difficult to access.
5. Get Flexible Storage During a Changing Renovation Timeline
Renovation schedules can change because of construction delays, material availability, inspections, or unexpected repairs. A flexible storage arrangement can make it easier to adjust your plans if the project takes longer than expected.
Many self-storage facilities offer month-to-month rental options, but lease terms vary by facility. Before renting, confirm the rental period, access hours, payment requirements, and any fees that may apply.
Extended access hours can also make it easier for employees or contractors to retrieve stored items outside of standard office hours.
6. Create a Storage Plan Before Construction Begins
Planning your storage needs before renovation work starts can prevent last-minute scrambling.
Use this simple checklist:
- Make an inventory of furniture, equipment, and supplies.
- Determine which items must remain at the office.
- Measure large furniture and equipment.
- Estimate the storage space you need.
- Select a unit with appropriate environmental conditions.
- Pack and label boxes by department or category.
- Photograph valuable or delicate equipment before moving it.
- Create a simple map of where items are located inside the unit.
- Confirm facility access hours and storage policies.
- Keep essential business records accessible as needed.
A Smarter Way to Manage an Office Renovation
Self-storage can provide the extra space needed to keep an office organized while construction is underway. By temporarily moving nonessential furniture, equipment, files, and supplies off-site, businesses can create a more functional work environment and give contractors room to complete the renovation.
The key is to choose an appropriately sized unit, protect sensitive belongings, label everything clearly, and maintain an inventory so your team can access what it needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is self-storage a good option during an office renovation?
Yes. Self-storage can temporarily house office furniture, equipment, files, and supplies while construction is underway, helping clear space and reduce workplace clutter.
What should I store during an office renovation?
Common items include desks, chairs, filing cabinets, shelving, seasonal décor, archived paperwork, spare equipment, and office supplies that aren’t needed during construction.
Do I need climate-controlled storage for office equipment?
It depends on what you’re storing. Climate-controlled storage may be beneficial for temperature- or humidity-sensitive items such as certain electronics, documents, and furniture. Check the manufacturer’s storage recommendations and the facility’s policies.
What size storage unit do I need for an office?
The amount of property you’re storing determines the required size. A 10×10 unit provides 100 square feet of floor space, while a 10×20 unit provides 200 square feet. Make an inventory and measure large items before selecting a unit.
How can I organize an office storage unit?
Label every box, group items by department or category, keep frequently needed items near the front, and leave a walkway for easy access. An inventory or simple storage map can also help employees find items quickly.
How long should I rent storage during an office renovation?
Rent storage for as long as you need it. If your facility offers month-to-month rentals, you can generally extend your rental if construction takes longer than planned. Check the facility’s specific rental terms.
Can I store computers and electronics in a storage unit?
Generally, yes, if the facility permits them and they are properly prepared for storage. Back up important data, protect equipment from dust and moisture, and consider climate-controlled storage for temperature- or humidity-sensitive electronics.
