In Davenport, Iowa, the need for extra storage often begins quietly. A move across town, a growing family, a home renovation, or simply years of belongings piling up in the basement or garage. What starts as a simple search for storage quickly turns into a bigger question: how much space do I actually need? Many people underestimate or overestimate their storage needs, and that uncertainty is what leads to wasted money, cramped units, or the stress of switching sizes after move-in.
This blog is written to clear that confusion. Instead of guessing, you’ll learn how to understand your storage needs, estimate the right storage unit size, and choose space that fits your belongings without paying for empty room. Whether you’re storing for a few weeks or several months in Davenport, this guide will walk you through practical steps, common mistakes to avoid, and smarter ways to select a storage unit that truly works for you.
Why Storage Unit Size Matters More Than You Think
Choosing the correct storage unit size isn’t just about fitting your belongings—it’s about avoiding unnecessary monthly costs. In Davenport, Iowa, storage prices can vary significantly between small, medium, and large units. Renting a unit that’s larger than you need often means paying hundreds of extra dollars over the year, while choosing a unit that’s too small can lead to repacking, stress, and upgrading later.
Whether you’re moving across Davenport, renovating your home, or simply running out of space, estimating the right storage unit size upfront saves both time and money.
Start by Listing What You Actually Plan to Store
The most reliable way to estimate the correct storage unit size is to take inventory of your belongings. Walk through your home and write down everything you plan to store—boxes, furniture, appliances, and seasonal items.
Pay special attention to larger pieces like sofas, beds, dining tables, and wardrobes, as these items determine how much space you’ll need. If you’re storing sensitive items such as paperwork, artwork, or electronics, you may also want to factor in climate-controlled storage, which is commonly available at storage facilities in Davenport.
Measure Your Belongings to Estimate Space
Once you know what you’re storing, the next step is estimating how much space those items will occupy. You can do this by stacking items together and measuring the length and width for a square-foot estimate, or by including height for a cubic-foot calculation.
There’s no perfect method—what matters is getting a realistic estimate. Even a rough measurement can help you avoid renting the wrong storage unit size. A tape measure, yardstick, or even a smartphone measuring app can work just fine.
Match Your Needs to the Right Storage Unit Size
When choosing the right storage unit, most options fall into three practical size categories based on length: 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft units. Each size serves a different purpose, and understanding what fits in each one can help you avoid paying for unnecessary space or struggling with a unit that’s too small.
10ft Storage Unit
A 10ft storage unit is best suited for light storage needs. It works well for boxes, seasonal decorations, small furniture, bicycles, or the contents of a single room. Davenport residents often choose this size when decluttering a home, storing college items, or keeping belongings safe during short-term transitions.
20ft Storage Unit
A 20ft storage unit is one of the most versatile and commonly rented options. It’s ideal for apartment moves, partial household storage, or storing larger furniture like sofas, mattresses, appliances, and multiple boxes. For residents who need reliable space without jumping to an oversized unit, this option offers the right balance of capacity and cost.
Currently, Self Storage Iowa is offering a 55% discount on the first month for their 20ft storage units, making it a cost-effective choice for those needing medium-to-large storage space.
This limited-time offer helps reduce upfront costs while still giving you enough room to store furniture, household items, or business inventory comfortably.
For many Davenport renters, this discounted 20ft unit is a smart way to secure ample storage without long-term financial strain.
40ft Storage Unit
A 40ft storage unit is designed for large-scale storage needs. It can accommodate furniture and belongings from multiple rooms, large homes, or even commercial equipment and inventory. This size is often chosen during full household moves, long-term storage, or business use where space and accessibility are critical.
If your estimated storage needs fall between two sizes, it’s usually wiser to choose the smaller option and pack efficiently. Most storage units in Davenport are approximately eight feet tall, allowing you to stack items vertically and make full use of the available space—helping you stay organized while keeping storage costs under control.
Final Tips for Davenport Residents Before Renting
Before committing to a unit, check local storage facilities in Davenport, Iowa, and compare exact dimensions. Not all storage companies label sizes the same way, and availability can vary by location.
If possible, visit the facility to see the units in person—it’s often the easiest way to visualize whether your belongings will fit. Also, consider whether short-term portable storage or moving containers might better suit your needs, especially for temporary projects or moves.
Choosing the right storage unit size doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear inventory, basic measurements, and local research, Davenport residents can find a storage solution that fits both their belongings and their budget.