The first thing to do when seeking out car storage units for rent is to go in with accurate measurements. Different vehicles have different lengths, widths, and heights, all of which you\u2019ll want to know before deciding on a unit size. However, your vehicle\u2019s length will be the best place to start.
This table gives the average lengths of common types of vehicles, and the recommended storage unit size for each. Remember to allow some extra room for walking around the vehicle and opening the doors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen you\u2019re ready to find your vehicle\u2019s exact dimensions, you can take measurements on your own or perform a search to find the measurements online. If you\u2019re still not sure, ask your dealership to check your car\u2019s VIN, and they\u2019ll be able to look up the exact measurements.
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What is the right storage unit size for a truck?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If you need a storage unit for a truck, you can reasonably expect a much larger space requirement than for most cars, but you should still go in with exact measurements to be sure. Here are the average lengths of some of the most popular truck models to start you off:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Ford F150: 19.3\u2019<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Chevrolet Silverado: 20.1\u2019<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dodge Ram 1500: 20.1\u2019<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Toyota Tundra: 19\u2019<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Smaller pickup trucks will fit well inside a 10×25 storage unit, while larger pickup trucks and some smaller commercial trucks can fit in a 10\u00d730 storage unit. However, most commercial trucks will require a much larger storage space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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What storage options are available for my vehicle?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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When it comes to vehicle storage, unit size isn\u2019t the only choice you\u2019ll have to make\u2013you\u2019ll also have to determine what type of storage best suits your needs. Each available option comes with its own pros and cons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Outdoor Storage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor vehicle storage spaces are essentially large parking lots where customers can pay to leave their vehicle for an extended period of time, parked among other customers\u2019 vehicles. Some spaces offer gravel or unpaved surfaces, but the highest quality outdoor storage spaces will be smooth, paved lots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Most affordable option.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Better for the environment (no lighting, cooling, or heating).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Low commitment for short-term needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Potential for sun or weather damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The vehicle is exposed to possible rodent or insect infestation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If your vehicle is parked in an unsafe neighborhood, damage or theft can occur.
<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nCovered Storage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Covered vehicle storage spaces are simply outdoor storage spaces with a covering or roof to help protect the vehicles parked there from most weather concerns. Vehicles in covered storage will be parked alongside each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- More affordable than enclosed storage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Some protection from rain, dust, hail, and the sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Higher quality facilities than uncovered outdoor storage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- The vehicle is still exposed to rodents and insects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can still be damaged by heavy winds or extreme weather.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- More expensive than uncovered outdoor parking.
<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nEnclosed Storage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Enclosed vehicle storage spaces offer the most protection, keeping customers\u2019 vehicles in individual units within a large indoor space. These spaces are the least cost-effective, but offer you the most control over your vehicle\u2019s environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Most secure option.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The vehicle is completely protected from the elements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The unit may be climate controlled. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Most expensive option.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Availability may be limited.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Often requires a long-term commitment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Different types of storage suit different needs, so be sure you take more than just your vehicle\u2019s size and maintenance requirements into consideration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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What else should I consider when choosing vehicle storage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
No matter what size your vehicle is or how long you plan to leave it in storage, here are a few more important factors to think of when deciding on the right space or unit for your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Accessibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To keep your vehicle in the best shape possible, you\u2019ll want to take it out for a quick drive every once in a while or connect it to a trickle charger\u2013this will extend the life of the battery while in storage. Consider choosing a space that offers easy access to units and vehicles to make visits fast and simple.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many indoor storage facilities offer round-the-clock access to units, allowing you to access your vehicle easily and regularly. Outdoor storage is a less expensive option, but inclement weather conditions such as snow may make it more difficult to access your vehicle if it\u2019s not covered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Security<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When considering security needs for your vehicle, you\u2019ll want to research the area the storage space is in and consider how valuable your vehicle is. Higher crime rates and more expensive vehicles may warrant paying more for higher security, and you\u2019ll also want to be sure you empty your vehicle of any valuable possessions before storing it. On the other hand, safer areas and less valuable vehicles mean a less secure facility should suffice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before choosing a facility, inquire about their security measures such as surveillance cameras, on-site staff, and gated entry. Peace of mind is an important factor!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Climate Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Leaving your truck or car outside for an extended period can eventually lead to discoloration, rust, engine problems, and possible wind or hail damage. Considering how much control over climate and protection from the weather a storage space has should play a major part in which one you choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Outdoor storage offers the least protection from the elements, but can still be a safe and affordable choice for short-term vehicle storage. However, the longer the period of time you intend to store your vehicle, the more control you\u2019ll likely want to have over the environment it\u2019s stored in. Enclosed storage units with temperature and humidity control<\/a> will be ideal for long-term storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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How should I prepare to store my vehicle?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve made a decision on which storage unit to use for your vehicle, there are a few steps to consider before you put it away. Some are legal requirements, while some are simply best practices worth keeping in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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License, Registration, and Insurance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Most vehicle self storage facilities have requirements that you must meet before you can store your car with them. This usually includes proof of a valid license and car registration, so be sure these documents are in order and easy to access when you\u2019re ready. Keeping your auto insurance policy active during self storage is important as well\u2013many facilities require one, and even if it\u2019s optional, it can still be useful in case something happens to your vehicle while it\u2019s being stored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Cleaning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n