Get Your Size Right
Don't pay for more space than you need, but don't cram everything into a unit that's too small. Spend a little time planning and measuring, and talk to our team — we'll help you find the right fit for your budget.
Choosing the right unit size means storing your belongings safely without paying for space you don't use. Whether you're a student between flats, a family downsizing or a business needing extra room, a bit of planning goes a long way.
1. Create a Detailed Inventory
Before you visit, list everything you plan to store. It prevents sizing mistakes and helps you picture the space you need.
📋 Inventory Checklist
- List all furniture with approximate dimensions
- Count boxes and estimate their sizes
- Note any unusually shaped or large items
- Allow for seasonal items you might add later
- Take photos of your current setup for reference
2. Understanding Storage Unit Sizes
Units range from locker-sized spaces to garage-sized ones. As a rough guide:
- Small units — a few boxes, seasonal items, documents or a student's belongings
- Medium units — the contents of a one or two bedroom flat
- Large units — a family home, business stock, or a car, boat or trailer
See every size we offer, with its dimensions and current price, on our storage sizes page.
💰 Flexible by design
- No long-term contracts — month to month
- Clear, upfront pricing
- Move to a different size if your needs change
3. Planning for Future Needs
Storage needs change. Students collect more over their study years, families need space during renovations, and businesses grow their stock.
🔮 Future-Proofing Tips
- Think about upcoming life changes (graduation, a new home, business growth)
- Factor in seasonal items (ski gear, summer furniture)
- Remember that moving to a larger unit later takes extra effort
- Balance current cost against future convenience
4. Maximising Space Through Smart Packing
Efficient packing can increase what fits by 30–50%, which may let you choose a smaller, cheaper unit.
Space-Maximising Strategies:
- Uniform boxes: same-sized boxes stack efficiently and safely
- Think vertical: use the full height of your unit — heavy items at the bottom
- Disassembly: take apart bed frames, table legs and shelving
- Fill empty spaces: use drawers, appliances and hollow furniture
- Leave aisles: keep access to the things you'll need
📐 Packing Hack
Vacuum storage bags make clothing and bedding take up a fraction of the space.
5. Access Requirements
Think about how often you'll need your things. Frequent access needs room to move around inside; long-term storage can be packed more densely.
Access 7 days, 6am–10pm
Come and go with your own PIN code at the gate — handy for irregular schedules and after-hours visits.
🚶 Access Planning
- Frequent access: choose a slightly larger unit and keep aisles clear
- Seasonal access: pack seasonal items where you can reach them
- Emergencies: keep important documents and essentials near the front
- Business storage: plan around your workflow and stock rotation
6. Accurate Measurements
Precise measurements prevent costly mistakes and help you use the space well.
What to Measure:
- Large furniture: length, width and height of sofas, beds, wardrobes
- Appliances: fridges, washing machines, entertainment units
- Boxes: estimate the total volume if you're using standard moving boxes
- Unusual items: sports gear, musical instruments, artwork
📏 Measurement Tips
Allow for awkward shapes and room to manoeuvre — a 2 m couch might need 2.5 m once you factor in positioning and access.
7. Visit Us
Nothing beats seeing the units in person. Pop in to Stash-It Tauranga at 65 Westminster Drive, Cambridge Heights, Tauranga 3110 and our team will show you around and help you choose.
Common Storage Scenarios
Students
Typical need: a small to medium unit for summer breaks, study abroad or moving between flats.
Families
Typical need: a medium to large unit for house moves, renovations or downsizing.
Local Businesses
Typical need: anything from a small unit for documents to a large one for stock or seasonal equipment.
🏠 Moving House?
Storage can bridge the gap between settlement dates, hold furniture while you sell or rent a smaller place, or keep your things safe while you find the right home.
Still not sure? Call us on 07 571 2121 and we'll talk it through.