How Big Is an 8×10 Storage Unit? Real-World Examples & Uses
One of the most common questions we field at My Storage Box is about storage unit size space. It’s always important to get the right size storage unit for what you need. Not too little, but definitely not too much. How do you know which storage unit size to get?
My Storage Box has three sizes to choose from: 8×10, 8×20, and 8×40 shipping containers, each well-suited for all kinds of miscellaneous items from patio furniture to appliances and everything in between.
Today we’re going to focus on 8×10 storage unit size and what this storage unit is ideally suited for. Let’s go!
What is an 8×10 Storage Unit?
An 8×10 storage unit is roughly 80 sq feet of storage space. Generally, we put this as the same storage capacity as a large walk-in closet. It is about the right size for a one-bedroom apartment or a house worth of household goods.
We chose a completely different tack when we set out to make storage units; instead of getting a thin-skinned set of units like everyone else uses, we invested in brand new shipping containers for our 8×10 storage unit sets, along with all of our other storage units.
They are the right size for all kinds of items, and when you compare the durability of their construction, you can’t compare them. The sheet metal used in a shipping container is twice the thickness of the thin (26-29 gauge) skin used in a typical storage unit. Those are frankly nowhere near as durable as our shipping containers, and they are not up to the tasks of keeping out the occasionally violent elements of Northern Oklahoma and Southern Kansas.
Shipping containers are made to handle the very worst conditions that the open ocean can throw at them and come back for more. You can imagine that using them for a storage unit is considerably less stressful on the container than traveling across the North Atlantic.

Determining Your Storage Needs
You really do want to get this step right because if you get too much storage space, you are wasting money and taking a resource from someone else who needs it. But if you get too small a storage unit, you might not be able to get a larger storage unit that you need.
Here are the best tips we have for choosing the right size of storage unit:
- Measure the space where you’ll be storing items to determine the right storage unit size.
- Consider the size of your furniture and boxes when selecting a storage unit.
- Think about the types of items you need to store, such as patio furniture, appliances, and supplies.
- Having extra space for a pathway to access items at the back of the unit is important.
Again, an 8×10 storage unit is the right size for miscellaneous items like patio furniture, small to medium appliances, or a single bedroom house or apartment worth of contents. You could also squeeze a refrigerator or a couch in there if you need to.
Business Storage Solutions
An 8×10 storage unit is a great solution for business storage needs, providing a secure and accessible space for storing supplies and equipment. If you have a small office that needs items put into storage, the 8×10 storage unit is a good option for you. It is ideal for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers who need to store inventory, files, and other business-related items.
The unit can be used to store office furniture, chairs, and other equipment, plus it is a great option to keep seasonal decor, inventory, or whatever else you need to get out of the office and out of sight.
Also, it is a really good option for independent contractors to keep tools, supplies, and smaller building materials around like residential windows, doors, etc.
Size Storage Unit Options
My Storage Box offers the three standard sizes of shipping containers for storage unit size: 8×10, 8×20, and 8×40.
An 8×10 storage unit is good for miscellaneous furniture like a mattress and box spring and small furniture items such as nightstands, chairs, and drawers.
An 8×20 storage unit is about 160 sq ft and is the ideally suited storage unit for a two-to-three-bedroom house. For example: a fridge, washer and dryer, three mattress sets, a dining room set, bookcases, couches, and boxes.
Finally, the 8×40 storage unit is approximately the size of a 320 sq ft garage or storage unit. This is enough for a three-to-four bedroom house and can handle a couple of couches, an oversized armchair, dining room set, fridge, washer and dryer, entertainment nook, bookcases, and multiple mattress sets.

Choosing the Right Storage Unit
What makes your storage unit selection the right storage unit for your needs? Here are a few of our top tips.
- Consider the location of the storage facility and its proximity to your home or business. Ideally, you want it within a few minutes so its contents are easy to access.
- Look for a storage facility that offers secure units. Security is one of our highest priorities and we take it very seriously.
- Check the storage unit’s features, such as shelving and lighting, to ensure it meets your needs.
Tips for Maximizing Storage Space
Start by labelling your boxes—a simple but effective way to get started. You may think you’ll remember what’s in each box but you’ll forget over time especially with unlabelled ones. In a month or more, finding your books or old photos could be a challenge.
To avoid this, label your boxes clearly—on top and at least one side—with the label facing outwards for easy visibility. Make sure to include the box number, the room it came from and a detailed list of what’s inside.
Your future self will thank you for it as well labelled boxes eliminate unnecessary stress and make finding things much easier, saving you time and hassle.
Common Uses for 8×10 Storage Units
The most common use for an 8×10 storage unit is storing furniture and appliances from a small to medium-sized house or apartment. They are also a good option for business storage for supplies, equipment, and inventory.
With solid floors and sturdy construction, they are natural for storing patio furniture and outdoor equipment.
Of course, if you have a renovation coming up, an 8×10 storage unit is great for storing boxes and containers.

Final Considerations
Choosing a storage unit that fits your needs is an important decision. Getting the size right when your renting one isn’t an exact science or anything, but there are some general rules to follow that make it easier:
- 8×10 storage units are good for roughly one bedroom
- An 8×20 storage unit is good for roughly two-to-three bedrooms.
- An 8×40 storage unit is good for approximately the size of three-to-four bedrooms.
Also, don’t forget that we offer 10×40 outdoor parking, which is great for motorhomes, travel trailers, or that boat that is clogging up your driveway. Check out our website to see what is available in your area today!







