5×10 Storage Unit: Perfect for Small to Medium Storage Needs

Hearing about storage units, you might picture enormous spaces stuffed with large objects. However, this is not always the case. Luckily, they also come in medium and small sizes to cater to storage needs that are ‘not too big league’. A staunch example of this category is the 5×10 unit; suitable for everything from decluttering to downsizing.

Read this guide and learn how big is a 5×10 storage unit, along with instructions on what to store inside.

Understanding the Size: What’s a 5×10 Storage Unit Really Like? 

First, let’s break it down—what is a 5×10 storage unit and why does it work so well for small to medium storage needs? 

A 5×10 unit is 5 feet wide and 10 feet deep. It’s 50 square feet of space that doesn’t overwhelm you with excess room, but gives you just enough to fit a fair amount of belongings. Imagine a small bedroom or a garden shed—this unit is the storage equivalent. It’s the perfect middle-ground between smaller units (like 5×5) and the giant ones that could fit a small car (like 10×10). 

In short, this is the storage unit you go for when you’ve got just a little bit more than you want to store at home, but not quite enough to fill a larger unit. Whether it’s just a few things you don’t need every day or extra furniture from a recent home makeover, a 5×10 unit gives you the space to tuck everything away neatly without feeling like you’re losing control of your storage. 

What Fits in a 5×10 Storage Unit? 

Well, you’ll be surprised to learn that it can hold a lot more than you think, especially if you’re strategic about packing.  

1. Furniture from a Small Apartment 

One of the most common uses for a 5×10 storage unit is storing furniture from a small apartment or studio. If you’re moving out temporarily, downsizing, or simply in-between homes, this unit can handle: 

This unit isn’t quite large enough for the contents of a three-bedroom house, but it’s perfect for storing the key pieces from a one-bedroom apartment. If you’re looking to keep your furniture safe and out of the way while transitioning between spaces, this is the unit for you. 

2. Boxes of Personal Items 

We all have those boxes of clothes, books, and keepsakes that we don’t necessarily need to access every day, but we still want to hang on to. A 5×10 unit can easily hold around 10–15 medium-sized boxes, depending on how efficiently you pack them. Things you can store here include: 

If your closet is overflowing or your attic has become a storage nightmare, a 5×10 unit is a great way to clear up some space while keeping your belongings safe and organized. 

3. Appliances and Electronics 

If you’re storing appliances or electronics, the 5×10 unit can comfortably hold several of these items. Here are just a few examples: 

Packing them correctly (with plenty of padding and covers) will ensure they remain in top condition until you need them again. This unit size is especially useful for people who are temporarily moving or renovating and need a safe place to store their larger, bulkier items. 

4. Outdoor Gear & Sports Equipment 

For all you sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, a 5×10 storage unit can hold plenty of gear. Whether you’re into cycling, hiking, camping, or skiing, this unit is the perfect solution for keeping your equipment safe and out of the way during off-seasons. Some things that will fit comfortably in a 5×10 include: 

Since this unit size isn’t too big, you won’t have to worry about wasting space, but it’s large enough to house a good amount of gear. 

5. Small Business Storage 

If you’re a small business owner, a 5×10 storage unit might be the perfect place to store inventory, office supplies, or equipment. Whether you need to store seasonal products, marketing materials, or excess office furniture, this unit gives you the space without committing to an expensive commercial lease. It can hold things like: 

Small businesses that don’t require large warehouse space often find that a 5×10 unit provides the right balance of accessibility and affordability. 

Tips for Making the Most of Your 5×10 Storage Unit 

To get the most out of your 5×10 storage unit, packing smart is key. Here are a few tips to maximize the space and keep your items safe and organized: 

1. Think Vertically 

Make the most of the height of the unit. Stack boxes neatly and use shelves to store smaller items. The more you can stack efficiently, the better use you’ll get out of your 50 square feet. 

2. Disassemble Large Items 

Take the legs off tables, remove the cushions from sofas, and break down bed frames. This will give you more room to stack and store your belongings. 

3. Use Protective Materials 

Protect your items, especially furniture and electronics, with covers, bubble wrap, or plastic bins. The last thing you want is to pull your belongings out and realize they’ve been damaged. This is especially important if you’re storing things for long periods. 

4. Label Everything 

Label your boxes clearly so you know exactly what’s inside. This will save you time when you need to find something and will keep you organized. If you’re storing a lot of boxes, create an inventory list so you can keep track of what’s in the unit. 

5. Create a Pathway 

Leave a small walkway down the middle of the unit so you can access everything without having to move piles around. This will make it easier to grab things when you need them, rather than digging through stacks of boxes. 

Is a 5×10 Storage Unit Right for You? 

A 5×10 storage unit is a great choice if you’ve got just a bit too much stuff to fit in your home, but not quite enough to need a huge storage space. It’s perfect for storing furniture from a small apartment, personal items like clothes or keepsakes, sports equipment, and small business inventory. 

If you’re moving or renovating, it’s also a lifesaver, offering just the right amount of room for items you need to keep safe but won’t require regularly. And because it’s so affordable compared to larger units, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a flexible, cost-effective storage solution.

Read Also: What Fits in a 5×10 Storage Unit? A Practical Overview

Conclusion: The Perfect Balance of Space and Affordability 

A 5×10 storage unit strikes the perfect balance between being big enough to hold a variety of items but not too large that it feels wasteful. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or need temporary storage for business or sports equipment, this size is ideal for small to medium storage needs. 

So, if you’ve got some extra stuff lying around and need a place to store it, reserve your 5×10 storage unit today. It’s the perfect way to clear up space and keep your belongings safe, organized, and easily accessible.