Storage Unit Size Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the storage unit size calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Recommended Unit Size
unit_size_sqft = ceil(sqft_needed / 25) * 25Estimated Monthly Cost
monthly_cost = ceil(sqft_needed / 25) * 25 * monthly_rate_per_sqftAnnual Cost
annual_cost = ceil(sqft_needed / 25) * 25 * monthly_rate_per_sqft * 12Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
rooms_of_stuff | Rooms of Furniture/Stuff | 3 |
monthly_rate_per_sqft | Rate per Square Foot(USD/sq ft/mo) | 1.5 |
sqft_needed | Derived value= rooms_of_stuff * 50 | calculated |
How It Works
Choosing a Storage Unit Size
A general rule is that one room of furniture needs about 50 square feet of storage space (assuming standard 8-foot ceilings in the unit).
Guideline
Square Feet = Rooms x 50
Common unit sizes: 5x5 (25 sq ft, closet), 5x10 (50, half room), 10x10 (100, 2 rooms), 10x15 (150, 3 rooms), 10x20 (200, 4 rooms), 10x30 (300, full house).
Worked Example
Storing 3 rooms of furniture at $1.50/sq ft/month.
rooms_of_stuff = 3monthly_rate_per_sqft = 1.5
- 01Space needed = 3 x 50 = 150 sq ft
- 02Rounded up = 150 sq ft (10x15 unit)
- 03Monthly cost = 150 x $1.50 = $225
- 04Annual cost = $225 x 12 = $2,700
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Storage Unit Size Calculator