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The Daily Insight

How big is the storage industry?

Author

James Olson

Updated on March 20, 2026

There is more than 1.9 billion square feet of available self-storage in space in U.S. The six largest publicly traded storage operators (four REITs, and U-Haul own or operate approximately 18% of self-storage facilities. The industry is worth $38 billion in 2018.

Similarly, what is the average size of a storage facility?

approximately 56,900 square feet

Likewise, how big is a 10x10 storage? A 10x10 self storage unit is 10 feet wide and 10 feet long, totaling 100 square feet.

Accordingly, what is the most popular storage unit size?

The 10'x10′ is the most popular storage unit size because of its versatility. It's a medium-sized space that amounts to about one-hundred square feet or about half the size of a standard garage. You can comfortably fit the contents of a two-bedroom apartment and all the boxes and totes that go with them.

How big is a 10 20 storage unit?

10×20 Storage Unit

The 10×20 offers ample space for larger storage needs with 200 square feet and 1,600 cubic feet of storage space.

Related Question Answers

Can a queen size bed fit in a 5x5 storage unit?

Technically, yes. A queen mattress is 60 in wide and so is a 5×5 unit. You could place the mattress into the unit angled corner to corner. This allows for an easier fit, but not much wiggle room to get to any items that may be stored in the corner behind the mattress.

What does 5x5 storage look like?

A 5x5 self storage unit is 5 feet wide and 5 feet long, totaling 25 square feet — comparable to a large closet. Many of our 5x5 storage units have 8-foot ceilings, providing roughly a total of 200 cubic feet of packing space. Check with your local Public Storage facility for exact dimensions on 5x5 units.

How many storage units can you put on 1 acre?

This question definitely falls into the realm of frequently asked questions when writing a self-storage business plan. Depending on the site, between 40% to 50% coverage, which is 20,000 to 23,000 square feet per acre.

Are storage facilities a good investment?

A "safe" investment.

For individual investors looking for an alternative to being a landlord, self-storage is considered a relatively safe real estate asset type with many positive characteristics. "Self-storage does even better during a recession because people need a place to store their stuff," Meyers says.

Can you live in a storage locker?

Living in a storage unit is prohibited by various local and federal housing laws. Storage facilities must evict any person they find living on the premises to stay in compliance with the law and most insurance policies. There are good reasons why this restriction is in place.

How much can you fit in a 5 by 10 storage unit?

If you're only storing boxes, a 5x10 self storage unit can fit up to 20 large boxes with room to spare. When stored with furniture or appliances, you may want to use a variety of small, medium and large boxes to make the most of the space you have.

How long can you have a storage pod in your driveway?

one month

Who is the largest self storage company?

Largest self-storage operators (publicly traded) in the U.S. (by annual revenue)
  • Public Storage: $2.68 billion (2019)
  • Extra Space Storage: $1.3 billion (2019)
  • CubeSmart: $643.9 million (2019)
  • Life Storage: $574.7 million (2018)
  • National Storage Affiliates Trust: $387.9 million (2019)

What size storage unit fits a car?

The common storage unit sizes for cars include: 10×15: Some compact cars. 10×20: Sedans, SUVs, vans, pickups, and more. 10×25: Large pickup trucks and vans.

Why are so many storage units being built?

Ease of Use and Security. For customers, these developments provide much more than good looks. Today's consumer demands a great move-in experience, easy access and premium spaces. Keypad entry, camera surveillance, and climate-controlled units are all key elements that are included in today's new build.

What is the best storage company?

Top self-storage companies
  • Most convenient locations – U-Haul.
  • Best customer service – CubeSmart.
  • Best online discounts – Public Storage.
  • Widest range of storage types – Life Storage.
  • Best for security – Extra Space.

How do I start a storage business?

  1. Why people need self-storage facilities.
  2. Research the local market.
  3. Plan your budget for starting a self-storage facility.
  4. Make a clear business plan.
  5. Create a comprehensive marketing strategy.
  6. Obtain secure storage space.
  7. Navigate the red tape.
  8. Develop an effective online presence.

How much land do you need for a self storage facility?

The average self-storage facility encompasses 46,000 net rentable square feet (the amount of money-generating space that can be rented by tenants). A facility typically covers 2.5 to 5 acres.

What should you not store in a storage unit?

We'll explain more about storage unit rules and regulations below, but here are some things you can't stow away in a storage unit:
  • Flammable or combustible items.
  • Hazardous materials.
  • Items that will attract pests.
  • Items that are susceptible to mold or mildew.
  • Anything living (e.g., plants, animals, people)

Can you make money in self storage?

Conclusion. You can make big money in self-storage, but only it you are a very smart buyer and seller. People who pursue average deals will only, best case, achieve average returns, which are less than spectacular.

Who owns storage of America?

Elite Stor Capital Partners, an affiliate of private equity real estate firm Calidus, bought the portfolio from Storage Rentals of America. The facilities will continue to operate under the current brand. The purchase brings the total number of facilities owned by Elite Store to 35.

How do I choose a storage unit?

How to Choose the Best Storage Unit for Your Needs
  1. Declutter Before You Look for the Best Storage Units.
  2. Determine the Purpose of the Storage Space.
  3. Measure Everything You're Storing.
  4. Add Extra Space for Ventilation.
  5. Consider if You Need Extra Services.
  6. Consider the Location.
  7. Go Visit the Storage Facility in Person Before Committing.
  8. Get Insurance.

Can storage units increase rent?

Whether you're renting an apartment, parking space, storage unit, or acre of farmland, there's just no way around rent increases for your space. Just like their apartment rent increases from year to year or lease to lease, they likely expect their storage unit rental rate to increase, too.

What does 10x10 look like?

What Does a 10x10 Unit Look Like? A 10x10 unit means that it is 10 feet by 10 feet in size, 100 square feet total and a perfect square. In terms of comparable sized spaces, think of a large shed, large one-bedroom apartment, or a small two-bedroom apartment.

How much does storage cost a month?

Storage unit average monthly price range
Type Rent per month
Standard storage unit $60–$180
Climate-controlled storage unit $75–$225

How much is a 10x10 storage unit?

What is the average cost of a 10x10 storage unit? The national average cost of a 10x10 unit is currently $97.59 per month. This includes prices for both climate control and non-climate control units. 10 x 15 (150 sq ft.)

How big is an 8x10 storage unit?

Our 8×8 Storage Unit, approximately 64 square feet, is a comparable, wider upgrade from the 7×10 unit. The 8×8 extra space allows for all kinds of storage options. Pack away a lot of your household items and personal belongings, wide furniture, moving boxes, etc.

What can fit in a 10x20 storage unit?

Typically, a 10x20 storage unit can hold:
  • 2 sets of bedroom furniture.
  • Queen or King size beds.
  • Large appliances.
  • Couches, living room sets, end tables and entertainment centers.
  • Dining room sets.
  • Office furniture.
  • Large outdoor equipment.
  • Multiple large boxes or storage containers.

How big is a 10x15 storage unit?

How big is a 10x15 storage unit? Our 10x15 storage units are 10 feet wide and 15 feet long, providing 150 square feet of storage space total.

How much storage do I need for a 2 bedroom apartment?

10x15

How much can I fit in a 10x20 storage unit?

five rooms

How big of a storage unit do I need for a 1 bedroom apartment?

5x15 Unit (75 sq. ft.): Great for storing the contents of a 1 bedroom apartment. Ideal for furniture including a couch, chair and small dining set, sporting equipment, bicycles, business merchandise, seasonal items, and sporting equipment. 10x10 Unit (100 sq.