Choosing a storage unit sounds simple — until you're staring at a list of sizes and wondering whether you need a little extra room… or double what you actually require. The good news? With a quick plan (and a couple of practical tricks), you can pick the right unit size first time, keep your belongings accessible, and avoid paying for space you won't use.
At Quick Self Storage, you can book online and get set up quickly and many customers love the smart, keyless access that lets you use your smartphone for entry at selected sites.
Below is a straightforward size guide, plus a few "wish we'd known earlier" tips that make packing and storing so much easier.
Step 1: List what you're storing (and why)
Before you pick a size, take two minutes to jot down what's going into storage and your reason for using it. It affects everything:
- Moving house: you'll likely store furniture + boxes and may want a bit of walkway space.
- Renovating/decluttering: you'll want easy access to rotate items in and out.
- Business storage: stock and equipment often stack well but you may need clear labelling and aisles.
If you're storing fragile items or anything you'll need regularly, planning for access is just as important as the raw square footage.
Step 2: Use a simple "size cheat sheet"
Quick Self Storage's online Size Guide gives a clear view of common unit sizes and what they can fit — here are the headline examples to help you choose quickly:
- 25 sq ft (5ft x 5ft): typically suits the contents of a studio flat
- 35 sq ft (3.5ft x 10ft): typically suits the contents of a one‑bedroom flat
- 50 sq ft (5ft x 10ft): typically suits the contents of a large one‑bedroom flat
- 75 sq ft (7.5ft x 10ft): typically suits the contents of a two‑bedroom house
- 100 sq ft (10ft x 10ft): typically suits the contents of a three‑bedroom house
- 125–150+ sq ft: options scale up for larger homes and extras (like garden/shed items)
- Up to 250 sq ft: available for very large household storage needs
Best tip: If you're between sizes, choose based on whether you need access. If you want to reach items easily, a slightly larger unit can be worth it — if you just want to stack and leave, you can often go smaller.
You can view the full size list and guidance here: Quick Self Storage Size Guide
Step 3: Don't forget the "hidden space winners"
A few small choices can save you a surprising amount of space:
1) Stack smart (and safely)
Use uniform boxes wherever possible so they stack neatly. Put heavier boxes at the bottom, lighter ones at the top, and keep anything fragile clearly labelled.
2) Go vertical
Most people only think in floor space but height matters. Stack boxes neatly and (where safe) store dismantled furniture upright to maximise capacity.
3) Leave a small access lane (if you'll visit often)
If you'll be in and out (seasonal items, tools, business stock), plan a walkway so you're not unpacking half the unit to reach one box.
Quick Self Storage features that make storing easier
When you're choosing where to store, size is only half the story — the experience matters too. Quick Self Storage highlights:
- Online booking and quick set-up, so you can sort storage without lots of back‑and‑forth
- Smart access with Nokē® at selected locations, bringing keyless convenience and digital key sharing
- Locations including Liverpool, Darlington, Nottingham, Wigan, Long Eaton, Ambergate and Nottingham South
- Extended access hours (7 days a week)
- Packing supplies available (boxes, bubble wrap and more)
FAQs: choosing the right storage unit size
What if I choose a unit that's too small?
It usually means cramped stacking, harder access and sometimes needing a second unit. If you're on the cusp, prioritise whether you need an access lane. (Tip: the Size Guide helps you visualise the jump between sizes.)
What if I choose a unit that's too big?
You might simply pay more than necessary. A quick inventory list and a realistic stacking plan (boxes + furniture) usually prevents overestimating.
Are there different unit sizes available?
Yes — the Size Guide lists multiple options from small spaces (like 25 sq ft) up to larger units (like 250 sq ft).
Can I book a unit in advance?
Yes, use our online booking system
When can I access my storage?
Visit the specific facility page for full access hours. All our facilities can be accessed 7 days a week.
Ready to pick your size?
If you're still unsure, start with the Size Guide to estimate your space, then decide whether you need an access lane (frequent visits) or can stack efficiently (longer-term storage). You can then get pricing and book online.
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