When it comes to storing a vehicle, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, RV, or boat, many people wonder about the best places to store them. A common question that often arises is: Can you use a storage unit for vehicle storage?
The short answer is: It depends. While storage units are an excellent solution for many kinds of items, there are several considerations when it comes to storing vehicles. In this article, we’ll break down the key points to consider before deciding whether a storage unit is the right choice for your vehicle storage.
Types of Storage Units and Vehicle Storage
Storage units come in different sizes and types, and some are better suited for vehicles than others. Here’s an overview of what you need to know:
- Traditional Indoor Storage Units:
- These are typically standard 10×10 or 10×20 units designed for household items like furniture, boxes, and seasonal equipment.
- Not suitable for vehicles: Traditional storage units generally do not have enough space for cars or larger vehicles. Additionally, they often have low ceilings that would not accommodate a vehicle’s height.
- Security and protection: Indoor storage units can protect your vehicle from theft and harsh weather conditions like extreme heat or cold.
- Outdoor Storage Units:
- These are open-air spaces in parking lots or large outdoor areas managed by storage facilities. They can be ideal for vehicles that don’t require indoor protection.
- Suitable for cars, boats, RVs, and trailers: Outdoor storage units usually have more space and can accommodate a variety of vehicles. Some offer extra features like fencing, lighting, and security cameras for added protection.
- Covered Storage Units:
- These are a middle-ground option, where vehicles are parked under a roof but not fully enclosed. Think of it like a carport at a storage facility.
- Suitable for some vehicles: These units protect vehicles from the elements like rain, snow, and sun damage while still offering better ventilation compared to fully enclosed storage.
- Climate-Controlled Storage Units:
- These units regulate temperature and humidity and are typically used for sensitive items like antiques, art, and documents.
- Not ideal for vehicles: While climate control is excellent for maintaining items that need precise temperature and humidity levels, it’s unnecessary for most vehicles. In fact, most vehicles don’t require climate-controlled storage unless they are extremely rare or vintage.
What to Consider When Storing a Vehicle in a Storage Unit
If you’re thinking about using a storage unit for your vehicle, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Space Availability:
- Make sure the storage unit is large enough to fit your vehicle comfortably. Cars, RVs, and boats are all much larger than boxes and furniture, so a regular 10×10 unit likely won’t work unless it’s designed to accommodate vehicles.
- Check with the storage facility to ensure that they offer units large enough for your vehicle.
- Security:
- Vehicles are valuable assets, so security is a top priority. Many storage facilities offer 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and on-site management. Be sure to inquire about security measures before storing your vehicle.
- Consider a facility with well-lit areas, surveillance cameras, and an access control system to protect your vehicle from theft.
- Legal Restrictions:
- Some facilities have policies that restrict the types of vehicles they allow in storage units. For example, they may have regulations regarding running vehicles (some don’t allow vehicles to be left with fuel in them) or long-term storage.
- Be sure to check the rental agreement and speak with a facility manager to ensure your vehicle complies with their terms.
- Climate and Weather Protection:
- If you’re storing your vehicle for an extended period, you want to make sure it is protected from the weather. While an indoor unit will protect your vehicle from sun, rain, and snow, an outdoor unit may expose it to these elements.
- If you’re storing in an outdoor unit, you may want to consider a cover for extra protection, especially for long-term storage.
- Access and Convenience:
- How often will you need to access your vehicle? If you plan to retrieve or use it frequently, choosing a facility with 24-hour access might be ideal.
- If the facility is far from your home or difficult to access, it could become a hassle when you need your vehicle.
- Cost:
- Vehicle storage can be more expensive than traditional storage because of the size and additional security features. Pricing can vary significantly depending on the location, type of storage (indoor vs. outdoor), and the vehicle’s size.
- On average, outdoor storage can range from $50 to $250 per month, while indoor or covered storage units can go up to $500 or more.
Alternative Storage Options for Vehicles
If a storage unit doesn’t sound right for you, there are other options to consider for vehicle storage:
- Garage Storage: Storing your vehicle in a personal garage may be the easiest and most cost-effective solution. However, not everyone has access to a garage, and garage space can quickly fill up with other household items.
- Driveway or Backyard Storage: If you have available space on your property, you could store your vehicle there. Just make sure it’s properly covered and secure.
- Vehicle Storage Facilities: Some businesses specialize in vehicle storage and provide dedicated services for cars, boats, RVs, and more. These facilities typically offer better protection and services tailored to vehicle storage.
- Parking Lots or Commercial Storage: Some commercial lots or car dealerships also offer parking for vehicles, especially for long-term storage. However, they may not offer the same level of protection or security as a dedicated storage unit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you can use a storage unit for vehicle storage depends on the size of your vehicle, the type of storage facility, and the level of protection you need. While outdoor and covered storage units are often suitable for vehicles, traditional indoor storage units are usually not. It’s essential to consider factors like security, access, and weather protection before making your decision.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a convenient, secure place to store your vehicle, a specialized vehicle storage facility or an outdoor storage unit is likely the best solution. Always ensure that the facility you choose offers the features that meet your needs, from adequate space to proper security.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the facility for more information or visit in person to inspect the space before committing to a rental.