What Size Storage Space Do I Need?
One of the easiest ways to overpay for storage is guessing the size you need. Too small and it doesn't fit. Too big and you're paying for empty air every month.
This guide gives you realistic sizing advice for common vehicles in Australia, so you can choose a storage space that actually makes sense.
It's practical, not theoretical.
Why storage size matters more than people expect
Storage is usually priced by length, width and access difficulty. A difference of one or two metres can move you into a higher price band.
The most common mistakes are:
- Forgetting the trailer length
- Ignoring mirror width
- Not allowing room to manoeuvre
- Assuming "standard size" means the same thing everywhere
Knowing your real dimensions saves money and frustration.
Before you measure anything
Don't rely on brochure specs alone.
You need:
- Total length (vehicle + trailer if applicable)
- Total width (including mirrors)
- Height (especially for covered storage)
- Turning space needed to get in and out
If it's on a trailer, measure the trailer, not just the vehicle.
Common storage sizes explained
Storage spaces aren't always labelled consistently, but these are typical categories.
| Category | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Small vehicle space | 5–6 metres | 2.5–3 metres |
| Medium vehicle space | 6–8 metres | 3–3.5 metres |
| Large vehicle space | 8–10+ metres | 3.5+ metres |
| Oversize / heavy vehicle | 10–20+ metres | Varies significantly |
Now let's match those to real vehicles.
Car storage size guide
| Vehicle Type | Length Needed | Width Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Small cars (hatchbacks, compact sedans) | 4.5–5 metres | 2.5–3 metres |
| Medium to large cars (SUVs, utes) | 5–6 metres | 2.8–3 metres |
Add extra space if:
- Mirrors don't fold
- Access is tight
- You'll need to open doors regularly
For long-term storage where access is rare, tighter fits are usually fine.
Caravan storage size guide
This is where people most often get it wrong. Check the caravan storage guide for more on choosing the right spot.
| Caravan Size | Total Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Small caravans (12–16 ft) | 5.5–7 metres | 2.5–2.8 metres |
| Medium caravans (17–20 ft) | 7–8.5 metres | 2.8–3 metres |
| Large caravans (21–24 ft+) | 8.5–10+ metres | 3–3.5 metres |
Always measure:
- A-frame length
- Spare wheels
- Bike racks or rear storage boxes
Those extras add up quickly.
Browse caravan storage in SydneyBoat storage size guide (on trailer)
Boats are measured by hull length, but storage space is about trailer length. For current pricing by size, see the boat storage cost guide.
| Boat Size | Total Length (on trailer) | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Small boats (4–5 m) | 5.5–6.5 metres | 2.5–3 metres |
| Medium boats (5–6.5 m) | 6.5–8 metres | 2.8–3.2 metres |
| Large boats (6.5–8 m+) | 8–10+ metres | 3–3.5 metres |
Watch for:
- Outboard engines
- Bow rollers
- Trailer guides
They all extend the real footprint.
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Truck and trailer storage size guide
Trucks and trailers vary massively, but rough guides help. For tips on keeping your truck or trailer in good shape while stored, read the truck and trailer safety guide.
| Vehicle Type | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Rigid trucks | 7–10 metres | 3–3.5 metres |
| Prime movers (tractor only) | 6–7 metres | 3–3.5 metres |
| Semi-trailers | 12–14 metres | 3–3.5 metres |
| Small box or equipment trailers | 4–6 metres | 2.5–3 metres |
For heavy vehicles, access and turning space matter as much as the bay length.
Browse truck storage in SydneyHeight and covered storage considerations
If you're looking at covered or indoor storage, height becomes critical.
| Vehicle Type | Typical Height |
|---|---|
| Cars | Under 2 metres |
| Caravans | 2.7–3.2 metres |
| Boats on trailers | 2.5–3.5 metres |
| Trucks | 3.5–4.5 metres+ |
Always ask for clearance height, not just "it should fit".
How much extra space should you allow?
A good rule of thumb:
- Add 0.5–1 metre to length if access is tight
- Add 0.3–0.5 metres to width if you'll be opening doors
- Add more if you're not confident reversing
For long-term storage with minimal access, you can be tighter. For frequent access, space is worth paying for.
Why access can matter more than size
A perfectly sized space is useless if you can't get in or out easily.
Ask about:
- Turning circles
- Gate widths
- Time restrictions
- Whether you can unhitch or move vehicles around
Sometimes a slightly larger, easier space is cheaper in the long run than wrestling a tight one every time.
Common sizing mistakes to avoid
These catch people out regularly:
- Measuring the vehicle but not the trailer
- Forgetting accessories like bike racks or spare wheels
- Assuming all "caravan spaces" are the same
- Not asking about access clearance
Five minutes with a tape measure saves months of hassle.
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The bottom line
Choosing the right storage size isn't about finding the biggest space you can afford. It's about finding the smallest space that fits comfortably and legally.
Measure properly, think about access, and don't assume. Storage that fits well costs less, works better and causes fewer headaches. Browse storage options by vehicle type — caravans, boats or trucks — and filter by the dimensions that matter.