If your car is your prized possession, and you want to protect it at all costs, then you may have thought about buying or renting a car storage unit. You may be looking to keep that vintage car away from outdoor elements or just looking for extra security for your daily parking spot. Either way, this guide will walk you through some top tips for choosing the right storage solution for your vehicle. From selecting car storage sizes to the type of self-storage unit, we will explain how to choose the best storage facility.
Car & Vehicle Storage Unit Guide
If you have decided to look into car storage options, there are a few things you should consider. How big of a storage unit do I need for my vehicle? What is my budget? Should I rent a storage unit or a parking space?
Before you commit to storing your vehicle in self-storage, you should research other options to ensure you get the best choice for your budget. For example, you can book monthly parking spaces that are covered or even in garages for reasonable prices from places like whereipark.com, and it is worth comparing the prices before settling on storage options.
If you do decide to go with self-storage, then we have put together some tips to help you below.
How to find the right size storage unit?
The first and most important thing is to work out your vehicle size. That will determine what size storage unit you will need. Take some time to measure your vehicle and determine the minimum size required before searching for vehicle storage. This will help ensure that you select the perfect fit for your vehicle and save you time and money.
Start by measuring the length of your vehicle, considering the bumpers. Then measure the width of the vehicle, including the door mirrors.
Once you have the measurements, you can start your search for the right storage unit size. Generally speaking, you will want an extra 6 feet of clearance all around your vehicle to enable you to open doors and park safely.
10 x 10 Storage Units
These storage units will likely only be able to store vehicles which are the smallest on the market, but you still should check there will be enough clearance around the vehicle to open doors.
10 x 15 Vehicle Storage
This self-storage unit would be able to take compact cars the size of a Mini Cooper, Fiesta or SMART car.
10 x 20 Storage
This is a standard-size self-storage unit that will fit more cars. You will need to get something bigger for larger vehicles, but this will fit cars like Ford Explorer or a Honda Accord.
10 x 25 Self Storage
If you are looking to store a van, RV or much larger SUV, you may need to upgrade to 250 square feet. Of course, it will all depend if the vehicle is the only thing you wish to store!
What are the different car storage types?
The best way to determine what type of storage space you need is to ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I want a short-term or long-term option?
- Will you be storing your vehicle indoors or outdoors?
If you only want short-term options, then covered parking or other parking options may be better for you. Self-storage may be your best option if you want something safe and monitored while you are not there for a longer period.
Enclosed Car Storage
These are typically the most secure and safe places for storing your car. They are like large garages where you can drive straight in and will keep your car out of the elements. You usually access them through a roll-up door, and they have features like climate control and CCTV.
Indoor Vehicle Storage
This is still indoors, protecting your car from the elements, but it is a shared indoor space. Cheaper than your own enclosed unit but less convenient as you will have to arrange times you can retrieve your car.
Covered parking spaces
This will protect your car from the worst damage, but it is just a roof cover, so whilst it will be cheaper, it will not be as secure.
How much do storage facilities cost?
Depending on your location, you can expect to p[ay anywhere from $50 – $400 per month for a small storage unit. For larger units and added features like climate control, you can easily add on an extra $50 a month.
How to prepare your vehicle for storage?
If you have made the decision to store your car away, then there are a few essential things to do beforehand. Taking this time to prep, your vehicle will pay off in the long term, keeping it in good condition.
- The first step to preparing your car for storage is to clean it thoroughly. Remove all dirt and debris from the outside of the car, giving it a wash. Vacuum and wipe down the inside of the car, leaving an air freshener to keep it smelling good.
- Take your car for a service before you put it into self-storage. Ensure all the fluids are topped up and the tires are inflated.
- If you will not be using the car for a while, disconnect the battery so that it does not drain.
Vehicle Storage Summary
A car storage unit is a great idea because it protects your custom vehicle and can be more cost-effective than other options. If this sounds like a good option for you, make sure when choosing which company to rent from you measure your vehicle correctly and consider the size and type of self-storage you will need. With all of the tips above, you should be able to find the right size car storage unit for your vehicle.
