What Size Storage Container Do You Need?

Choosing the right storage container size can save you money, stress, and the hassle of last-minute upgrades. Whether you’re moving house, renovating, or need extra space for business inventory, selecting the proper container size ensures your belongings fit safely without paying for space you don’t need.

Understanding Storage Container Sizes in Auckland

Storage containers are measured by floor space. Your items can be stacked or arranged to maximise space, such as stacking boxes (assuming they are sturdy and stackable).

It can be helpful to view the storage container in person before signing any contracts. You can get a feel for the space and envisage how your furniture and belongings will fit. 

It’s also worth gazing into your crystal ball. Do you think you’ll need to add more items over time? If so, it’s worth considering choosing a slightly larger container than your initial plan. This will save you the drama of upsizing into a bigger unit later on. 

At Safestore, we have four different size units across our three branches in Auckland.

Small Container: 2.4m Long x 1.5m Wide x 2.4m High

With approximately 8.5 cubic metres of storage space, small containers are perfect for one-bedroom apartments or studio flats. This compact size accommodates basic furniture, a few appliances, and personal belongings like bedding, clothing, and kitchenware. These are ideal for decluttering or staging your home.

Medium Container: 3m Long x 2.4m Wide x 2.4m High

Offering 17 cubic metres or 7.2 square metres of floor space, medium containers suit one to two-bedroom flats or units. This versatile size works well for couples or small families moving between homes, providing ample room for furniture, appliances, and household items.

Large Container: 6m Long x 2.4m Wide x 2.4m High

Large containers provide 33 cubic metres or 14.4 square metres of space, equivalent to a single car garage. Perfect for three to four-bedroom houses, this size accommodates contents including furniture, major appliances, and garage items.

These are also ideal if you think you’ll require regular access to items in the unit, so you can set up a pathway in the middle for ease of access.

Extra Large Container: 40 Foot (12m Long x 2.4m Wide x 2.4m High)

With 69 cubic metres of storage, extra large containers are ideal for business use or complete house relocations. There’s enough space for a car and a full house lot, making this the perfect choice for large-scale moves, commercial inventory, or extensive storage needs. We only have the extra large container in our Glendene, Auckland, branch.

Room-by-Room Rule-Of-Thumb

There are some general heuristics to help you get started:

  • A small bedroom takes about 8 to 10 cubic metres. Includes a dresser, single bed, and room contents
  • A large bedroom will be between 12 to 15 cubic metres. A double bed, a couple of dressers, and room contents for two people
  • A living room needs about 15 to 20 cubic metres for the entertainment unit, lounge suite/ sofa, and decor items
  • The kitchen contents on their own need 8 to 12 cubic metres including fridge and oven.
  • An average garage includes items (DIY’ers might been to downsize) of around 15 to 25 cubic metres

House Size Guidelines

Your typical 100 square metre three-bedroom New Zealand home needs at least a 40-foot container. This includes all furniture and household contents, major appliances like the fridge and washing machine, and typical small garage or shed contents.

Multiple containers may be required for large houses, or extensive business relocations.

Business Storage Requirements

Office Equipment Space Calculations

Businesses need to plan efficiently. To help, it’s good to have some rough ideas of sizes needed:

  • A standard office desk (not disassembled) needs two to three cubic metres. 
  • Executive office chairs need 1 cubic metre each
  • Four-drawer filing cabinets take 1.5 cubic metres
  • Complete computer workstations can occupy up to two to four cubic metres
  • An eight-person meeting table requires four to six cubic metres.

Inventory Storage Guidelines

Small retail shop inventory typically fits in a medium to large container, medium wholesale stock requires an extra large 40-foot container, and large distribution requirements may need multiple container solutions.

What Won’t Fit in a Storage Container?

Our storage containers are versatile, but they can’t change the laws of physics. Some big items, such as large motor vehicles, caravans, and boats, won’t fit in the container sizes we have, as they typically are not wide or tall enough. For these, you’ll need to find a more specialised facility.

Still Have Questions? We Can Help

Choosing the right container size is essential for a smooth and stress-free storage experience. By understanding your space requirements, measuring your belongings, and considering future needs, you can select the perfect storage container for your situation.

Contact us at Safestore for expert help and guidance in choosing your ideal container size. We are also happy for you to visit the facility during office hours, as this can help you decide



What Size Storage Container Do You Need

  • Start by inventorying your items room by room using the calculation method above. Measure larger furniture pieces and estimate box quantities. Most providers offer online calculators where you can input your belongings for a personalised recommendation.

  • Yes, most storage providers in New Zealand offer flexible upgrades.

  • Large containers (6m long) are the most popular choice for New Zealand families, as they comfortably accommodate three to four-bedroom homes. 

  •  It’s generally wise to size up slightly, as this provides flexibility for organising items, prevents overpacking, and allows room for last-minute additions. Any cost difference between sizes is small compared to the convenience gained.

  • Yes, all container sizes except the small option can easily accommodate standard household appliances.