How to estimate your storage volume?
Don’t know where to start when it comes to estimating your storage (or removal) volume? No need to worry. Whether you’re moving a few boxes or a whole flat, we’ll help you find the ideal space… and above all, only pay for what you need.
Calculate your storage volume:
Why is it important to estimate your storage volume correctly?
To reduce your costs: you only pay for the space you actually need.
To anticipate logistics: prepare for boxes, bulky or fragile items.
To choose the right storage service: lock-up, container, warehouse, etc.
And if you make a mistake? Don’t worry. At YouStock, our rates are adjusted according to the volume collected on the day.
Estimate the volume of your furniture and objects
A few examples of volume by type of container:
Each type of container does not occupy the same volume, and this can quickly make the difference when it comes to choosing the right storage surface.
Here are a few estimates to help you anticipate the space you’ll need based on the number of boxes, suitcases or bags you plan to store.
💡 Our tip: choose boxes of the same size to optimise stacking and avoid wasting space unnecessarily.
| Volume | |
|---|---|
| Standard box | 0,1 m³ |
| Small box / book box | 0,05 m³ |
| Wardrobe box | 0,4 m³ |
| XL box / plastic storage box | 0,2 m³ |
| Travel bag / cabin suitcase | 0,1 m³ |
| Large suitcase | 0,2 m³ |
A few reference points for the volume of furniture or objects:
You don’t need to get out your tape measure to measure everything down to the last detail: some objects always take up roughly the same volume, whatever their model.
Here are the average volumes for the most common objects. Add yours up to get an initial estimate of your total requirements.
💡 Our tip: also remember to dismantle your furniture if possible (beds, wardrobes, sofas). This reduces the overall volume, makes transport easier and optimises storage.
| Volume | |
|---|---|
| Chair | 0,2 m³ |
| Fridge freezer | 1,5 m³ |
| 2-seater sofa | 1,2 m³ |
| Armchair | 0,5 m³ |
| Coffee table | 0,3 m³ |
| Rug - between 2 and 3 metres | 0,4 m³ |
| Chest of drawers | 0,4 m³ |
| Small bedside table | 0,2 m³ |
An expert will get back to you to help you accurately assess your storage or moving project.
How do I convert a volume (m³) into a surface area (m²)?
You’ve estimated your storage volume in m³, but some services charge by m²? Don’t worry, we’ll show you how to convert your result easily.
The formula to apply
A practical example
You have estimated your storage requirements at 8 m³. And the ceiling height of the storage space is 2.5 m:
Surface area = 8 m³ ÷ 2.5 m = 3.2 m².
So you need around 3.2 m² of floor space to store your belongings.
A tip from our experts 💡
Enjoy the same experience as our clients 💙
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
At YouStock, we know that moving is a highlight in your life. To reduce the uncertainty and stress associated with this change of life, we provide you with our online tool to calculate the volume in m³ of your goods.
You will be able to obtain in a few moments an estimate of the cubage of your furniture and the associated price. You can already get a fairly precise idea of the volume of your goods, without even having to plan a technical visit.
This calculation is therefore essential so that you can prepare your move in peace!
It is difficult to influence the calculation of the volume to be moved, or the distance between the point of departure and that of arrival. However, you can reduce the cost of the intervention with these tips:
If you have the time to prepare your boxes yourself, don’t hesitate. Depending on how much effort you are willing to put into it, this will reduce the quote slightly. You can also opt for basic packaging to spend less money, but if like everyone else you care about your belongings, it is really not worth the effort.
You can also reduce the amount of the estimate by dismantling your furniture yourself, without calling on movers for this operation. But be careful, you will also need to be able to reassemble them on your own, otherwise you will need to seek professional help!
Choose the right time to make your move. The price calculation for your move can be strongly impacted by the time of year you decide to move in. Indeed, seasonality is an important pricing factor. Generally speaking, you will pay more if you move at the end of the month. The most expensive time of year to move is spring and early summer (April to July).
Finally, reduce transport costs by choosing a van with the load volume adapted to the cubic capacity of your move. To choose the most suitable truck for your needs, use our online moving volume calculator if you haven’t already!
Make a list of your main pieces of furniture and the number of boxes. Using our benchmarks (see above), add up the volumes. This will give you a realistic estimate of your needs.
Alternatively, don’t hesitate to use our simulation tool to get a free, accurate estimate.
The square metre (m²) measures a floor area.
A cubic metre (m³) measures a total volume (length × width × height).
For storage, we use m³ because your belongings are stacked on several levels, not just placed on the floor.
Don’t worry: our teams will adjust your surface area on the day of collection. You only pay for what is actually stored or moved.
Yes, a YouStock expert can help you free of charge by telephone or remotely. Just click on ‘Talk to an expert’ or ‘Contact me’ to make an appointment.
Absolutely. Our solution is flexible: you can add or remove items at any time. Your rate is adjusted according to the space actually occupied.