How to Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Picking a storage unit size is the single most common question we hear at our Pekin and Tremont facilities. Choose too small and you’re playing furniture Tetris; choose too big and you’re paying for empty air. Here’s how to get it right the first time.

Start with what you’re storing

Before you reserve anything, make a quick list of your largest items — mattresses, sofas, appliances, and any vehicles. Those big pieces dictate the footprint you need far more than the boxes do.

Our most popular sizes

• 5x10 (Small) — Comparable to a large walk-in closet. Perfect for seasonal décor, a dorm room’s worth of furniture, or 10–20 boxes.
• 10x10 (Medium) — Holds the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including a sofa, bed set, and appliances.
• 10x20 (Large) — Roughly a one-car garage. Great for a three-bedroom home or a vehicle.
• 11x40 (Jumbo) — Built for commercial inventory, large boats, and full-size RVs.

Leave room to move

A good rule of thumb: give yourself about 10% extra space so you can walk in and reach items at the back without unloading the whole unit. If you’ll be visiting often, size up slightly.

Still not sure?

That’s what we’re here for. Call our local team at 309-208-2390 and describe what you’re storing — we’ll recommend the most cost-effective unit and check current availability at both locations.

No long-term lease required. All J&J units are month-to-month with 24/7 gate access and no security deposit.

Ready to lock in your space? Reserve a unit online or view all sizes and pricing.