What Size Storage Unit Do I Need? A Complete Fort Collins Storage Guide
Choosing the right storage unit size can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time renting one. You want enough room to safely store your belongings without paying for more space than you need.
Whether you're moving, heading to college, downsizing your home, or storing business inventory, understanding what fits in each storage unit size can help you make the right decision.
This guide breaks down the most common storage unit sizes and offers practical tips to help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Why Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size Matters
The right storage unit does more than hold your belongings—it makes moving, organizing, and accessing your items much easier.
Choosing the right size can help you:
Avoid paying for unused space
Protect furniture from being packed too tightly
Keep boxes organized and easy to access
Leave room for future storage needs
Make moving day less stressful
If you're between two sizes, think about whether you'll need regular access to your belongings or expect to add more items over time.
5x10 Storage Unit
A 5x10 storage unit is a great choice for students, individuals, or anyone storing a smaller number of belongings.
Best For
Dorm room contents
Studio apartment furniture
Seasonal decorations
Outdoor gear
Small home office items
Typically Fits
Twin or full-size mattress
Desk or small table
Chairs
Bookshelves
Bicycle
10–15 moving boxes
This size is especially popular with Colorado State University students who need temporary storage between semesters or apartment leases.
10x10 Storage Unit
The 10x10 storage unit is one of the most versatile and commonly rented sizes. It offers enough space for the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or small home.
Best For
One-bedroom apartments
Couples moving between homes
Small families
Long-term household storage
Typically Fits
Bedroom furniture
Sofa and loveseat
Dining table and chairs
Major appliances
Television
20–30 boxes
If you're unsure which size to choose, a 10x10 unit is often a safe starting point for an average household move.
10x15 Storage Unit
Need a little more room? A 10x15 storage unit provides additional space for larger moves or growing storage needs.
Best For
Two-bedroom homes
Home renovation projects
Business inventory
Office furniture
Typically Fits
Multiple bedroom sets
Living room furniture
Dining room furniture
Large appliances
Patio furniture
30–40 moving boxes
This size also works well for small businesses looking to store inventory, equipment, or seasonal supplies.
10x20 Storage Unit
A 10x20 storage unit is ideal for larger moves or households with several rooms of furniture.
Best For
Three-bedroom homes
Large apartment moves
Contractors
Growing businesses
Typically Fits
Most household furniture
Refrigerator, washer, and dryer
Garage contents
Lawn equipment
Office furniture
Large quantities of boxes
Many homeowners use this size while remodeling or waiting to move into a new home.
15x25 Storage Unit
If you need maximum storage space, a 15x25 unit can accommodate the contents of a large home or significant business inventory.
Best For
Large homes
Commercial storage
Business inventory
Long-term household storage
Typically Fits
Entire household furnishings
Large furniture collections
Office equipment
Business inventory
Commercial supplies
Numerous large appliances
For businesses or families with extensive storage needs, this size offers the flexibility to organize belongings while keeping everything accessible.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
Still deciding which storage unit is right for you? Ask yourself these questions:
How many rooms of furniture am I storing?
Will I need regular access to my belongings?
Am I storing mostly boxes, furniture, or both?
Do I expect to add more items later?
Can large furniture be disassembled to save space?
Thinking through these questions can help you narrow down the best storage unit size before moving day.
Tips for Maximizing Your Storage Space
No matter which size you choose, packing efficiently can help you make the most of every square foot.
Here are a few simple tips:
Use sturdy boxes that stack easily.
Label every box clearly.
Place heavier boxes on the bottom.
Store frequently used items near the front.
Disassemble tables and bed frames when possible.
Take advantage of vertical space by stacking carefully.
Leave a small walkway so you can reach items in the back.
A little planning can save you time and frustration when you need to retrieve something later.
Still Not Sure What Size Storage Unit You Need?
It's completely normal to be unsure. Many people underestimate—or overestimate—how much space they'll need.
If you're unsure which storage unit size is right for your situation, the team at Manhattan Storage can help. Simply tell us what you're planning to store, and we'll recommend a unit that fits your belongings without paying for unnecessary space.
Find the Right Storage Unit in Fort Collins
Whether you're moving across town, storing belongings during a renovation, heading home from college, or looking for extra space for your business, choosing the right storage unit is the first step toward a stress-free experience.
Manhattan Storage offers a variety of clean, secure storage units in a convenient mid-town Fort Collins location with flexible month-to-month rentals. Our team is happy to help you choose the right unit size for your needs.
Contact Manhattan Storage today to learn more about available storage units and find the perfect fit for your belongings.

