Small Storage Rental Units Guide
Smaller sized storage units are a cost-effective way to store smaller size items in a secure location away from home. Although they’re not big on space, these types of units are ideal for decluttering, storing seasonal items and managing belongings during transitions.
In this guide, you’ll get all the information you need to figure out if a small storage rental unit is a good fit for your storage needs.
What Items Fit In a Small Storage Unit?
Small storage rental units are typically no larger than 50 sq ft. with two types of small units offered at our facilities. With their compact yet versatile space, these units can accommodate a surprising range of items. Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically fit in small storage units:
| Storage Unit Size | Suitable Items to Store |
|---|---|
| 5x5 ft (25 sq. ft) Storage Units Metric: 1.5x1.5 m (2.25 m sq) | Totes or moving boxes (30 – 40 depending on size) Seasonal home décor & clothing Sports or recreational equipment Smaller-sized furniture & appliances Files and documents |
| 5x10 ft (50 sq. ft) Storage Units Metric: 1.5x3 m (4.5 m sq) | Totes or moving boxes (50+ depending on size) Small apartment contents Full-size furniture items A motorcycle, scooter, or dirt bike Patio furniture |
How to Pick the Right Size Small Storage Unit
Choosing the right size storage unit is crucial to ensure you’re not paying for space you don’t need, while also making sure all your items fit comfortably. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a small storage unit:
- Keep Track of Your Inventory: Before choosing a storage unit, make a list of all the items you plan to store. This will give you a better idea of the amount of space you’ll need.
- Consider the Size and Shape of Your Belongings: Some items may be small but awkwardly shaped, or they might be fragile and require extra space to avoid damage. Take this into account when deciding on the size of your storage unit.
- Think About Future Needs: If you anticipate needing more storage space in the future, it might be worth renting a slightly larger unit now rather than having to move everything to a bigger unit later.
- Consider 5×5 vs 5×10 Units: As a rule of thumb, a 5×5 unit is suitable for storing small furniture, boxes, and personal items, equivalent to a small closet’s worth of stuff. A 5×10 unit, on the other hand, can hold the contents of a studio or one-bedroom apartment, similar to a walk-in closet.
It’s important to know that it’s better to have a little extra space than not enough. This allows you to organize your items efficiently and access them easily whenever needed. At Public Storage Canada, we offer a variety of storage units to cater to your unique needs.
For more information, check out our self storage unit size guide to learn more about small storage units, as well as all other storage unit sizes offered.
What are the Pros and Cons of Small Storage Units?
Pros of Small Storage Units
| Pros of Small Storage Units | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Affordability | When unit features and accessibility are on par with larger units, small storage units are almost always more affordable. This makes them a cost-effective solution in situations when you only have a limited amount of goods to store. |
| Efficiency | With less space to work with, you're encouraged to organize your items efficiently. As a result, this makes it easier to locate and access your belongings when needed. |
Cons of Small Storage Units
| Cons of Small Storage Units | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Limited Space | While small storage units are great for storing a few things, they may not be sufficient if you have bulkier items or a high volume of goods to store. Use our storage calculator to see how to pack a unit efficiently. |
| Potential for Overcrowding | If you try to fit too much into a small storage unit, you could end up with an overcrowded space where items become that much harder to find and retrieve. |
Small Size Storage FAQs
How much does a small storage unit cost at Public Storage Canada?
The cost of a small storage unit varies based on location. For availability, find storage options near you.
Are small storage units secure?
Yes, all units, including small ones, are security monitored at our facilities 24/7. Features like video surveillance, electronic gate access, and alarm systems help maintain the security of your stored possessions at all times.
Can I upgrade to a larger unit if I run out of space?
Absolutely! As long as the new size you need is available, you can transfer to a new space for whenever you need it.
Do I need to organize my items in a specific way in a small storage unit?
To maximize space, it’s recommended to organize your items as efficiently as possible. For best results, this might involve stacking boxes strategically, dismantling furniture, or standing up your items vertically.