Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

When moving out of a two-bedroom apartment, most people choose between a 10×10 or 10×15 storage unit. The right size depends on how much furniture and how many boxes you’re bringing, but either option can comfortably handle a two-bedroom’s worth of belongings

Finding Your Fit

Square footage: For most two-bedroom apartments up to 800 square feet, a 10×10 storage unit does the job. If your spacious two-bedroom is bigger, a 10×15 is probably the better option.

Furniture: Standard bedroom sets and a three-seat sofa usually indicate a 10×10. If your pieces are oversized, you have a sectional or a king bed and headboard, a 10×15 is a good bet.

Appliances or outdoor items: If you have large appliances or a barbecue and outdoor furnishings, lean toward a 10×15. Most apartment dwellers don’t, so a 10×10 may be the one.

Fitting Your Needs

A small two-bedroom could mean you need a 10×10, while a large one calls for a 10×15. But here are a few more ways to determine the best fit for you.

Frequency: If you are planning on long-term storage and won’t visit often, a 10×10 can work. Frequent visits and a short stay? Choose a 10×15.

Access: If you want a central aisle, the ability to see everything, and room to maneuver, a 10×15 may be best. If not, opt for a tightly packed 10×10.

Cost: Naturally, the smaller storage unit will cost less. If affordability is a top priority, do a little downsizing—especially if you don’t know how long you will need to rent storage.

Visualize the Two Units

10×10: While not all 10×10 storage units are perfectly square, they will provide 100 square feet of floor space. Adding in the vertical space of up to an 8-foot ceiling, your total storage is about 800 cubic feet. Imagine the space as a small bedroom, large shed, or half of a one-car garage.

10×15: Akin to a large bedroom, it can accommodate four rooms worth of belongings. Add up to an 8-foot ceiling to 150 square feet on the floor, and you will have about 1,200 cubic feet of storage potential.

Pack to Maximize Your Storage Unit

Whichever size you choose, pack and load everything into the storage unit strategically. Draw up a plan for furniture and box placement before moving day. Consider these other useful guidelines:

• Disassemble furniture like bed frames and tables to save square footage. Store screws and bolts so they are easy to find.
• Large frames and mirrors on end.
• Use like-sized boxes so they stack safely and take advantage of high ceilings.
• Stack by weight and size, with the heaviest items on the bottom and lighter on top to keep everything stable.
• Pack small items inside larger ones—think inside a refrigerator or tucked into bookcases.
• Label everything, then sketch a map for locating items later.