How Much Student Storage Do I Need? The Ultimate Packing Guide
One of the most common questions we get at Local Student Storage is: “I have a room full of stuff, but how many boxes is that actually?”
Underestimating your storage needs can lead to last-minute stress, while overestimating can make your room feel like a maze. To help you plan your move-out from DRA, Sallies, or your private flat, we’ve broken down the average requirements based on nearly a decade of helping St Andrews students.
The best part? At LSS, we provide both our Standard and Large boxes to you for FREE.
📦 Understanding Our Box Sizes
Choosing the right box for the right item is the secret to a stress-free move. Here is the breakdown of the two sizes we deliver to your door:
1. The Standard Box
- Dimensions: 457 x 305 x 305 mm
- Weight Limit: 15 kg
- Best For: Heavy or dense items. Think textbooks, files, kitchen crockery, and “desk junk.”
- Pro Tip: Because of the 15 kg limit, this is the safest choice for your heavy academic books. It keeps the weight manageable and prevents the bottom of the box from giving way.
2. The Large Box
- Dimensions: 508 x 406 x 406 mm
- Weight Limit: 20 kg
- Best For: Bulky but lighter items. Think duvets, pillows, winter coats, and sports hoodies.
- Pro Tip: This box has significantly more volume, making it perfect for your bedding and bulky clothing that takes up a lot of space but doesn’t weigh a lot.
Which “Packer” Are You?
The “Minimalist” (3–5 Boxes)
Typically living in catered halls like Sallies or Uni Hall.
- The Mix: 2 Large boxes (bedding/clothes) and 2 Standard boxes (books/toiletries).
- Common items: Seasonal clothing, a duvet, and a few textbooks.
The “Home Away From Home” (6–10 Boxes)
Our most common tier for students in self-catered apartments like DRA or ABH.
- The Mix: 4 Large boxes (kitchen gear/clothing) and 4 Standard boxes (heavy books/electronics).
- Common items: Air fryers, pots and pans, a monitor, and a full winter wardrobe.
The “Heavy Loader” (10+ Boxes & Bulky Items)
Usually for postgrads in Powell Hall or those in private flats.
- The Mix: A combination of 10+ boxes, plus “extra” items like golf clubs or a bicycle.
- Ideal for: Students with a lot of research materials, extra furniture, or specialised hobby gear.
Weight Matters: The 15kg and 20kg Rule
For the safety of our student-led team and your belongings, please keep an eye on the weight:
- Standard Box: Max 15 kg (About the weight of a large checked suitcase).
- Large Box: Max 20 kg (About the weight of a medium-sized microwave).
LSS Tip: If you can’t slide the box across the floor easily with one hand, it’s likely over the weight limit! Mix in some pillows with your books to balance things out.
Don’t Forget the “Odd” Items
In St Andrews, storage isn’t just about boxes. We frequently store:
- Golf Clubs: We have specialized areas for your bags.
- Gowns & Suits: Store these in garment bags to keep them pristine.
- Suitcases: No need to box these! We can store your suitcases exactly as they are.
Get Your Free Boxes Today
Why pay for cardboard? We’ll deliver a mix of Standard and Large boxes to your door so you can start packing at your own pace. If you realise you need a few more or a few less on collection day, don’t sweat it – we’re flexible.