A 5×10 storage unit measures 5 feet wide by 10 feet long, providing around 50 square feet of floor space and approximately 400 to 500 cubic feet of storage volume. To visualize, this is about the size of a large walk-in closet or half of a standard single-car garage.
This unit size is popular because it offers enough space for one-bedroom apartments, dorm storage, or seasonal belongings without the higher costs of larger units. Its manageable size makes it easy to organize and access, especially when using portable and storage movers who can transport and place your items directly into the unit for added convenience.
How Much Can a 5×10 Storage Unit Hold?
A 5×10 unit can store furniture, boxes, and small appliances comfortably if packed efficiently. It’s best for people who are:
- Moving from a studio or one-bedroom apartment
- Storing belongings during home renovations
- Needing seasonal or temporary storage
- Keeping small business inventory safe and organized
What Can Fit in a 5×10 Storage Unit? (Detailed Breakdown)
Here’s a comprehensive look at what you can fit into this unit size, grouped by item type
Furniture
- 1–2 small couches or a loveseat
- 1 queen- or full-size mattress and box spring (stored vertically)
- 1–2 nightstands or end tables
- 1 small dining table with chairs (disassembled for space)
- 1 dresser or chest of drawers
- Small bookshelves or accent furniture
Appliances
- Mini-fridge or small refrigerator
- Compact washer/dryer set
- Microwave or countertop appliances (packed in boxes)
- Window AC units or portable heaters
Boxes and Storage Bins
- Around 20–30 medium-sized moving boxes (16″x16″x16″)
- Up to 15 large boxes if stacked vertically with furniture
- Plastic totes or storage bins for seasonal clothing, books, or documents
Electronics
- Flat-screen TVs up to 50 inches (properly packed and upright)
- Computer equipment and small home office items
- Speakers or gaming consoles
Outdoor and Seasonal Items
- Bicycles or scooters (2–3, depending on size)
- Camping gear or sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards)
- Holiday décor and artificial trees
- Lawn equipment like weed trimmers or push mowers
Business Inventory
- Marketing materials like banners and stands
- Small office furniture or file cabinets
- Retail stock (clothing boxes, packaged products)
By organizing items strategically, placing bulky furniture against the walls, stacking boxes vertically, and filling gaps with smaller items, you can maximize every inch of this 50-square-foot unit.
Ideal Uses for a 5×10 Storage Unit
Moving Between Apartments
Perfect for students, young professionals, or singles relocating with limited furniture. It stores all the essentials for a studio or one-bedroom apartment.
Temporary Storage During Renovations
When remodeling a kitchen, bedroom, or living space, this unit keeps furniture safe and dust-free until the work is complete.
Seasonal Storage
Great for storing holiday decorations, patio furniture, and clothing during off-seasons, freeing up valuable closet space at home.
Small Business Storage
Entrepreneurs can store inventory, trade show materials, or office supplies without the expense of renting larger commercial spaces.
Tips to Maximize Space in a 5×10 Unit
Use Vertical Height
Stack boxes up to the ceiling, placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Adding freestanding shelving can further optimize vertical space.
Disassemble Furniture
Take apart bed frames, tables, and shelves to save room and prevent scratches. Keep all hardware in labeled bags taped to the furniture.
Pack Smart and Label Clearly
Use uniform box sizes for efficient stacking, label all sides of each box, and group similar items together for easy retrieval later.
Create a Walkway
Leave a narrow aisle in the middle so you can access items at the back without unpacking the entire unit.
Is a 5×10 Storage Unit Right for You?
A 5×10 storage unit is perfect for people who don’t need to store an entire household but require more than just a closet. It’s budget-friendly, flexible, and suitable for both personal and business use. If you have more than one bedroom’s worth of belongings or larger furniture like sectionals and dining sets, consider upgrading to a 10×10 or 10×15 unit.
Moving Into Storage? Let AFA Movers Handle It!
Choosing the right storage size is just the start; safely getting your belongings there is where AFA Movers excels. We assess your inventory to recommend the perfect unit, securely pack and load your items to maximize space, and transport everything with care to prevent damage. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or relocating, our team makes the entire process seamless. Call AFA Movers today for a free quote and enjoy a stress-free storage move.
