Choosing the right storage unit size is the difference between paying for space you don't use or not being able to close the door. In this guide we explain how many square meters you need depending on what you're going to store, how to estimate it without making mistakes, and how to make the most of each meter. Designed for those looking for a storage unit in Tenerife, whether for a move, a renovation, or to gain space at home.
How is a storage unit measured?
Storage units and furniture storage are contracted by square meters (m²) of floor, not by volume. But don't forget about height: most exceed 2.5 meters, so you can take good advantage of vertical space by stacking boxes and shelves. Good vertical utilization makes a small storage unit perform like one that is 30-40 % larger.
Table: what you store → what size you need
These are realistic orders of magnitude to choose without falling short or going over:
| Size | Equivalent to… | What fits |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 m² | A closet | Boxes, documents, seasonal items, suitcases, a small motorcycle. |
| 3-4 m² | Half a room | The contents of a room: bed, disassembled closet, and several boxes. |
| 5-8 m² | A large bedroom | Half a home or a 1-bedroom apartment without large appliances. |
| 10-15 m² | A small garage | A 2-3 bedroom home fully furnished. |
| 20-25 m² | A double garage | A complete large house, or home furniture + renovation storage. |
If you're unsure between two sizes, go with the larger one: everything fits comfortably and the price jump is usually small compared to having to relocate or hire a second space.
How to estimate your volume before choosing
The most reliable way to get it right is to first calculate the cubic meters of what you're going to store and convert them to surface area. We explain it step by step in our guide on how to calculate the m³ of your move. As a quick rule: each square meter of storage, taking advantage of height, absorbs the equivalent of about 2.5-3 m³ of belongings.
Tips to make the most of each meter
- Disassemble what you can (beds, tables, shelves): they take up much less space when flat.
- Boxes of the same size: stack better and don't leave dead spaces.
- Heavy at the bottom, light at the top, and leave an aisle if you're going to go in to look for things.
- Take advantage of the interior of furniture (closets, drawers) to store clothes and small objects.
- Protect from dust and moisture with covers; in installations with humidity control this is less critical.
Storage unit or furniture storage?
If your doubt is not just about size but which option suits you best—autonomous access whenever you want (storage unit) versus custody with pickup and delivery (furniture storage)—we compare it in detail in the guide storage unit or furniture storage in Tenerife: which to choose. And if you're looking for a custody service, check out our furniture storage in Tenerife.
How much does it cost depending on the size?
The price is calculated based on the m² you reserve (around 25 €/m² per month, with discounts for long stays). You have the examples by size and the factors that affect it in the guide on the price of furniture storage in Tenerife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change size if I run out of space?
Yes. Normally you can expand (or reduce) to another storage unit depending on how what you're storing evolves; check this when contracting.
How much of a complete home fits?
A 2-3 bedroom home usually fits in 10-15 m²; a large house, in 20-25 m². With a prior assessment we adjust it without surprises.
Is it worth taking advantage of the height?
Very much. With shelves and stacked boxes, a storage unit can perform 30-40 % better than if you only use the floor.
Summary
To get the size right: take inventory, estimate the volume, think vertically, and when in doubt, choose a slightly larger storage unit. At Horizont Atlantic, with over fifteen years in the Canary Islands and our own furniture storage in Tenerife, we help you calculate the exact space you need. Check out our storage units in Tenerife or request a free quote and we'll advise you with no obligation.
