How is storage space calculated? A guide to box counts, volume, and dimensions

1. Make a list first, then measure large items

Divide items into three categories: boxable items, small loose items, and large furniture, and record the quantity for each item. For sofas, wardrobes, and mattresses, measure the outermost length, width, and height.

Disassemblable furniture should have its dimensions recorded separately for assembled and disassembled states, and verify if the team can arrange for disassembly and reassembly first. Do not disassemble parts that might affect safety or maintenance yourself.

2. Basic volume calculation method

Using metres as the unit, length × width × height equals cubic metres. For example, for a rectangular block of 60 × 40 × 40 cm, the volume is 0.6 × 0.4 × 0.4 = 0.096 cubic metres.

The above is just a calculation example and does not represent the actual dimensions or pricing standards of One Plus One storage boxes. External dimensions do not equal usable internal space; please confirm before packing.

3. Item volume does not equal required storage space

Packaging materials, object shapes, fragility, and whether they can be safely stacked will all affect the space required. Non-load-bearing items should not be crushed by heavy objects just to save space.

Chair legs, armrests, and irregular shapes will also leave gaps. Do not simply add up the volumes of all items and assume that is the final storage space required.

4. What information should I provide for a quote?

A list combined with full-view photos and dimensions is usually easier to assess than just saying 'one bedroom of furniture'. You should also provide the address, floor, elevator details, and estimated storage period.

If items are not yet packed, you can provide approximate information first and update it before confirmation. The final space, moving arrangements, and costs are subject to the confirmed quote.

• Item names, quantities, and dimensions
• Photos and special packaging needs
• Estimated move-in and retrieval times, and moving restrictions

5. How to measure L, W, and H to avoid missing anything?

Measure the outermost positions, including armrests, cabinet tops, handles, and non-retractable feet; record irregular shapes by the outer frame needed to contain them, with photos explaining the gaps. Note separately what can and cannot be dismantled.

To convert cm to m, divide by 100 (e.g., 80cm is 0.8m). Record every item in the same unit; don't multiply cm and m directly. Quantities must be listed separately; two items of the same size need separate calculations.

6. Calculation example and limitations for three boxes of clothes.

Assuming three outer boxes are each 60×40×40 cm, the geometric volume of a single box is 0.096 m³, and the total for three boxes is 0.288 m³. This only demonstrates unit conversion and does not mean three boxes can perfectly fill a storage space of the same volume.

If a box cannot bear weight or requires protective materials, the placement method changes. Storage box stackability and weight bearing should be confirmed based on product specifications and team arrangements; don't crush contents to pursue theoretical storage utilisation.

7. Do not ignore weight, packaging, and transport entrances.

Books, documents, or equipment may not be large but are very heavy; sufficient capacity doesn't mean sufficient weight capacity per box. Distribute weight according to box limits and use appropriate smaller containers to ensure box bottoms can safely support the load.

Simultaneously measure entrances, lift interiors, corridor corners, and stair landings. If objects fit in the warehouse but not out of your home, they still require assessment; whether they can be dismantled, parts removed, or transported via other methods cannot be decided by volume formulas alone.

8. Organise measurement results into an updateable list.

List names, quantity, L×W×H, dismantle status, fragility, and expected access frequency for each item, and attach numbered photos. Photos with scale references are easier to understand, but they don't replace physical measurement.

If items decrease or increase after sorting, update the list and quote before confirmation, rather than just adding verbal notes to the original table. Keep the confirmed version and check items one by one upon handover to avoid basing capacity and transport arrangements on outdated data.