How Do I Choose the Right Size Mini Storage Unit?

Choosing the right size storage unit can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a mix of furniture, boxes, and seasonal items. Selecting the correct size helps you avoid overpaying while ensuring everything fits comfortably. This guide explains common storage sizes, what fits inside each, and how to pick the best option for your needs.

1. Start With an Inventory

Create a simple list of the items you plan to store. Note whether items can be stacked, boxed, or disassembled. This helps estimate how much floor space and vertical space you will need.

2. Understand Common Storage Sizes

5 x 6 Units

Perfect for a small apartment or one bedroom worth of items. Ideal for boxes, bikes, small appliances, and smaller pieces of furniture.

5 x 13 Units

Great for one to two bedroom homes. Comfortable for couches, dressers, appliances, and renovation supplies.

9.5 x 13 Units

Suitable for larger apartments or smaller homes. Offers more flexibility for long-term storage or bulky furniture.

9.5 x 21 Units

Used for full household storage, contractor equipment, or a large combination of furniture and boxes.

3. Consider How Often You Will Access Items

If you plan to visit your unit regularly, choose a slightly larger size so you have space to walk and organize. Tight stacking is efficient for long-term storage but not ideal for weekly access.

4. Factor in Seasonal Changes

Winter gear, summer equipment, and holiday items take up more space during certain times of the year. If you expect storage needs to fluctuate, choose a size that allows room to rotate items in and out.

5. Choosing a Storage Unit Size When You Are Moving

Many renters use mini storage units specifically to simplify their move. If you are moving in Winnipeg or transitioning between homes, storage can help you:

• Pack room by room
• Declutter before listing your home
• Stage your home without excess furniture
• Store boxes early so moving day is less stressful
• Keep fragile or important items separate from movers
• Bridge the gap if closing dates do not align

What Size Do Movers Typically Need?

5 x 6 Unit

Useful for early packing and staging. Fits:

• 10 to 20 medium boxes
• Small dressers
• Nightstands
• Bins of seasonal items
• Sports gear

Ideal if you want to start decluttering before showings or if you are moving from a bachelor or one bedroom suite.

5 x 13 Unit

Works well for most standard moves. Fits:

• One bedroom of furniture
• Mattresses
• Sofas and chairs
• Appliances
• Dozens of boxes

This size is the most common choice for people staging a house or preparing for a multi-room move.

9.5 x 13 or 9.5 x 21 Units

Best for full household moves. These sizes handle:

• Large sectionals
• Dining sets
• Multiple mattresses
• Patio furniture
• Garage contents
• Bulkier items you want to move gradually

If your possession dates are spread out or you want flexibility to move in stages, these larger units prevent stacking stress and reduce damage risk.

6. Tips for Packing a Storage Unit During a Move

• Pack heavier items first and keep fragile items grouped separately.
• Label boxes clearly by room and importance.
• Leave an aisle inside the unit so you can reach boxes without unloading the entire space.
• Store seasonal and infrequently used items at the back.
• Keep daily essentials near the front so you can access them immediately after moving.
• Use shelving if you expect to store items for more than one month.

These small adjustments make moving easier and reduce load-in and load-out time.

Conclusion

Choosing the right unit size keeps your belongings protected and makes your storage experience more efficient. Whether you are decluttering, downsizing, or preparing for a move, selecting the correct size ensures a smooth transition. If you are unsure, The Toy Caves team can help estimate the appropriate size based on your inventory and storage goals.