10’x10’ Storage Unit Size Guide
Written by: StorageUnits.com Editorial Team - Updated: Jun 26, 2025
10’x10’ storage units are a popular solution for those requiring extra space to store furniture, appliances, and other household belongings. Before you rent, it’s essential to understand how much it can hold, the average cost, and other key details. This guide covers everything you need to know about 10’x10’ storage units to help determine if it’s the right size for your storage needs.
How Big Is a 10’x10’ Storage Unit?
A 10’x10’ storage unit is considered a medium-sized unit. It can hold approximately a living room’s worth of furniture or the belongings of one bedroom. Consider the items you plan to store to determine if a 10’x10’ unit is the right storage unit size for you.
Can you walk inside a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Yes, you can comfortably walk inside a 10’x10’ storage unit. With 100 square feet of floor space and typically an 8- to 10-foot ceiling, it feels like a small spare room or oversized walk-in closet. There’s plenty of space for a 2- to 3-foot pathway to access boxes, shelving, furniture, and even stand a small ladder for higher stacks.
What Does a 10’x10’ Storage Unit Look Like?
A 10’x10’ storage unit features a smooth concrete floor spanning 100 square feet, enclosed by corrugated steel walls beneath an 8- to 10-foot ceiling. The front is secured by a full-width roll-up metal door with a padlock latch. Overhead or motion-sensor lighting provides basic illumination. It resembles a small one-car garage or walk-in closet, ideal for shelving, furniture, or equipment.
What Fits in a 10’x10’ Storage Unit?
Before moving items into storage, evaluate what items you plan to store. Knowing what fits, and what doesn’t, in a 10’x10’ unit will help determine if this size meets your needs. Here are some commonly stored items and whether they’re suitable for a 10’x10’ unit:
Will a queen mattress fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Yes. A standard queen mattress (60″x80″) fits easily in a 10’x10’ storage unit, which offers a 120″x120″ footprint. You can lay the mattress flat on the floor or stand it upright against a wall to save floor space. This also leaves ample room for boxes, furniture, or shelving alongside it. Always protect your mattress with a cover to keep it clean and dry.
Will a couch fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
A standard three-seat sofa (around 84″ long and 35″ deep) fits comfortably in a 10’x10’ unit’s 120″x120″ floor space. You can lay it flat or, more space-efficiently, stand it on end against a wall. This orientation frees up room for boxes or additional furniture. Always measure your couch first, accounting for armrests and cushions, and protect it with a cover to guard against dust and moisture.
Can a motorcycle fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Most motorcycles are between 84″ and 96″ long and 30″ and 40″ wide, and would fit easily in a 10’x10’ unit’s 120″x120″ floor space. You can park the bike lengthwise against one wall, leaving room on either side for gear or boxes. Angling it slightly can accommodate wider handlebars or saddlebags. Secure it upright with a kickstand and leave space to walk around for safe loading and unloading.
How many boxes fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Most items kept in storage units are packed in cardboard moving boxes. The amount your storage unit can hold will depend on the size of the boxes you use. For example, a 10’x10’ storage unit will hold over 100 medium-sized boxes (approximately 20”x20”) or around 50 large boxes (18”x18”). Stacking them on one another will help you utilize vertical and horizontal space.
Can a washer and dryer fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Yes, standard washers and dryers fit easily in a 10’x10’ storage unit. Placed side by side, they occupy roughly 54″ of width and 30″ of depth, leaving ample room for boxes, shelving, or an access aisle. If you have stackable units, you can stack them against a wall to maximize floor space even more. Always secure hoses and cords to prevent tripping hazards.
Can a dining table fit in a 10’x10’ storage unit?
Yes, a typical rectangular dining table (72″x36″) fits on its side in this size unit’s 120″ depth and 120″ width. Standing the tabletop upright against a wall saves the most floor space, with leaves or detachable legs stored alongside. Round tables up to 60″ in diameter can also lean upright. Disassembling legs or removing leaves further simplifies loading and maximizes usable storage area for boxes or chairs.
Common Items That Fit in a 10’x10’ Unit
Bedroom
- Queen or full mattress and bed frame
- Dresser or chest of drawers
- Nightstands
- Boxes of clothing, linens, and shoes
Living Room
- Standard three-seat sofa or loveseat
- Coffee table and end tables
- TV stand or media console
- Bookshelves or display cabinets
Kitchen
- Dining table (upright) and chairs
- Medium boxes of dishes, glassware, and cookware
- Small appliances (microwave, toaster oven)
- Kitchen cart or folding table
Home Office
- Large desk (assembled or dismantled)
- Office chair
- Filing cabinet or file boxes
- Bookcases or shelving units
Garage/Outdoor
- One-car motorbike or bicycle rack
- Lawn mower or power tools in a tool chest
- Camping gear or sports equipment
- Garden supplies bundled together
Miscellaneous
- Holiday decorations (tree sections, ornaments)
- Luggage and travel bags
- Hobby supplies (craft bins, instrument cases)
- Extra bedding, rugs, or patio cushions
Compare 10’x10’ Units to Other Unit Sizes
A 10’x10’ unit delivers 100 square feet of floor space, enough for furnishings from multiple rooms or large appliances. The next smaller common sizes are 5’x10’ (50 sq ft) and 5’x5’ (25 sq ft), while larger options include 10’x15’ (150 sq ft) and 10’x20’ (200 sq ft). Below is how they stack up:
5’x5’ vs. 10’x10’
- Floor Space: A quarter of the floor space of a 10’x10’, fitting just a handful of boxes, small décor, or seasonal gear.
- Ideal Use: Ultra-budget-friendly, but too cramped for furniture, mattresses, or appliances.
5’x10’ vs. 10’x10’
- Floor Space: Half the floor space of a 10’x10’, accommodating a single room’s worth of belongings, like boxes, a small sofa, or a queen mattress.
- Ideal Use: Perfect for studio and dorm moves, but lacks the room for multi-room storage or large appliances.
10’x15’ vs. 10’x10’
- Floor Space: Fifty percent more floor space than a 10’x10’, it lets you lay bulky items flat and stack higher.
- Ideal Use: Great for combined living and kitchen overflow or larger bedroom sets.
10’×20’ vs. 10’×10’
- Floor Space: Double the floor space of a 10’x10’, providing a drive-up feel for cars or extra-long items.
- Ideal Use: Ideal for full-house moves, vehicle storage, or extensive business inventory.
10’x10’ Storage Unit Alternatives
- Portable Containers: Requiring outdoor space at your home, this option allows you to load at your convenience. Often available in 8’x8’ or 8’x16’ sizes.
- Garage/Bay Rentals: Drive-in access for vehicles or heavy equipment. These are usually priced like residential garages.
- Locker Units: Budget-friendly option for documents or a few boxes, but too small for furniture. They are often available in 3’x4’ and 4’x6’ sizes.
Common Uses for 10’x10’ Storage Units
A 10’x10’ storage unit is versatile and ideal for various life transitions and projects, from relocating to clearing space for renovation. Here are some scenarios where a 10’x10’ storage unit comes in handy:
- Renovations. Create space and keep items safe while you remodel a room in your house.
- Moving abroad. Pack your items away while you travel for employment or education opportunities overseas.
- Moving in with someone. Combining households often means duplicate or excess items; this size unit can store a two-bedroom apartment.
- Business Inventory. Perfect for small businesses that need secure, off-site space for overflow inventory, extra office supplies, or archived records.
- Furniture Storage. Whether staging your home, downsizing, or safeguarding heirloom pieces, this size unit accommodates sofas, chairs, tables, and dressers.
How Much Does a 10’x10’ Storage Unit Cost?
Estimates from Move.org suggest a medium-sized storage unit (ranging from 5’x15’ to 10’x15’) averages around $140 per month. Storage unit rates vary depending on location, storage provider, and amenities. To find the best deal, compare prices from multiple storage companies before signing an agreement.
How to Pack a 10’x10’ Storage Unit
Proper preparation ensures that your storage unit easily accommodates your boxes, furniture, files, and other belongings. Create a packing strategy to maximize space and maintain easy access to your items. Use these storage unit packing tips and techniques to help keep your belongings safe and organized while in storage.
- Draft a Floor Plan: Sketch zones for bulky furniture, medium boxes, and small items, placing seldom-used goods in the back.
- Measure Before You Move: Record dimensions of sofas, mattresses, and shelving to confirm fit and optimize placement.
- Assemble a Base Layer: Position heavy items like appliances and dressers on the floor against the back wall to create a stable foundation.
- Stack Uniform Boxes: Use similar-sized, sturdy boxes and stack heavier ones at the bottom. Label each box clearly on two sides.
- Utilize Vertical Space: Install bolt-together or free-standing shelving toward the front for smaller bins and frequently accessed items.
- Protect Furniture: Wrap upholstered pieces, tables, and mirrors in moving blankets or shrink wrap to prevent scratches and dust.
- Keep Aisles Clear: Leave at least 2–3 feet of walking space down one side for easy access to the back of the unit.
- Disassemble Large Items: When possible, break down tables, bed frames, and shelves, storing hardware in labeled bags taped to the pieces.
- Cover and Secure: Drape sheets over tall stacks, and use ratchet straps or bungee cords to stabilize leaning items.
- Plan for Access: Place a box marked “Open First” near the door with essentials, like tools, light bulbs, extension cords, and a flashlight.
What size truck do I need to move a 10’x10’ storage unit?
A general rule of thumb is to use a moving truck one size larger than your storage unit. U-Haul estimates a 15-foot moving truck should provide enough space to transport your items to a 10’x10’ storage unit. Truck sizes vary by provider, so check with your moving company to see what they recommend.