How Much Storage Space Do I Need for a One-Bedroom Apartment During?

Most one-bedroom places usually cover around 500 to 900 square feet of space. But the specifics can differ. Moreover, everyone has different ways of storing their things. All your stuff will usually fit into a 10x10 storage unit. However, knowing the exact measurements of a storage unit might not always be helpful.

Here are your options with some perspective on what they can hold (going beyond the metrics):

5x5 Storage Unit

This storage unit is the same as your closet space or half of the space of your bathroom. It's perfect for keeping:

  • Important documents

  • Boxed items

  • Twin-sized mattress

  • Books

  • Records

  • Small miscellaneous items

If you’re moving out of your student dorm or apartment and only want to store a small volume of items, this option will be perfect for you. However, you can only think of it as a storage space for “extras.” If you need to store away most of your stuff, you’ll need more space.

5x10 Storage Unit

This unit is ideal for any one-bedroom apartment or studio because you can store all your belongings if you pack them smartly. Space-wise, this storage unit holds the same capacity as a large walk-in closet. If packed and stacked properly, you can store:

  • Several boxes

  • Winter clothes

  • Small kitchen appliances (microwave, air fryer, etc.)

  • A set of chairs

  • A small mattress

10x10 Storage Unit

This unit is around the same size as the half of a standard one-car garage. To get the best out of this space and store as much stuff as possible, you must smartly stack your packed items and use the vertical space as much as possible. It can store almost all your belongings:

  • Electric appliances

  • A king-sized mattress

  • A dining room set

  • Furniture

  • A couch

  • Sporting or fitness equipment

10x20 Storage Unit

This unit has the same space as a standard one-car garage and can store belongings of up to 2 or 3 bedrooms, making it perfect for people who want to store all their stuff during a move and don’t want to worry about running out of space later. You can store things like:

  • Music equipment such as a piano

  • Full dining room set

  • Drum set

  • A small car (not alongside the rest of your items, of course)

  • Bedroom furniture set

So, if you own any oversized items, this option would suit you. 

Make an Inventory List & De-clutter

When making your inventory list, take precise measurements for furniture, appliances, and any big items. This will help you calculate how much storage space you’ll need. Since most one-bedroom apartments in the USA are between 600 and 800 square feet, a 5x10-foot storage unit (which has a capacity of 400 to 500 cubic feet) can be enough.

Plus, you can sell or donate some of the items that you won't be needing after the move. After all, American families spend around $1,700 every year on clothes only and then end up discarding most of these purchases anyway. You can categorize your list based on how frequently you’ll need to use something.

Discard the items at the far end of the list.

Your inventory list can also help you decide the packing and stacking order, ensuring that the most urgently needed items are easily accessible after the move.

How to Pack for a Storage Unit?

Get boxes that are sturdy and waterproof. Regular cardboard boxes can be used for items that won't be damaged by moisture (if it seeps in), such as kitchen utensils, plastic toys, and so on.  Use a color-coded labeling system to make it easy to figure out what's where afterward. Start by putting the heaviest boxes on the bottom and then stack lighter boxes on top.

Use bubble wrap to protect fragile items and appliances from bumps during transportation and loading. Seal boxes (use strong tape for cardboard boxes) and arrange them with the right side up to avoid mess when removing them.

Often when you rent a storage locker, you can also request packing and shipping services. And you can actually delegate this to save yourself time and effort. In this case, you won't have to lift a finger. The movers will sort, pack, stack, and even unpack your belongings. They will also advise you on the ideal storage locker size for your case and make the best use of that space.

Hopefully, with this information, you'll be able to make informed decisions! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact professional movers like A Plus Moving. A team of experts will help you and answer all your questions.