Storing Vehicles and Boats at a Self Storage Facility

Posted on February 22, 2010
Filed Under Boat Storage | Leave a Comment

Self-storing a vehicle that’s only used seasonally or periodically is a smart idea. Studies show that far more accidents occur in your driveway or out on the street than in a secure storage facility. And if you live in an urban area or apartment, finding space to park your vehicle for extended periods of time can be difficult or even impossible.

There are many good reasons for renting self-storage space for your recreation vehicle:

1.Flexible Rental Term. Most storage facilities allow you to rent space on a month-to-month basis. This means you only have to pay for the time you are actually using the space. This is especially convenient when you’re storing seasonal vehicles like boats.

2.Security: Storage facilities are often surrounded by high security fencing. Video cameras monitor and record activity at the premises 24/7, and there are usually bright security lights on at night. Access to the area is through a central security gate that is passcode accessible only.

3.An insurance company will often reduce the rate on the vehicle when it is stored in a secure location.

4.Not only is self-storage safer from theft than leaving the vehicle in your driveway or in front of your house, it’s also safer from falling tree limbs and daily traffic that goes by.

5.Most self storage facilities offer both indoor and outdoor vehicle storage options.

6.Self storing your larger vehicle gives you more space at home for things like swing sets and play equipment for the kids. Plus, a luxury vehicle like a yacht sitting in your driveway is an invitation for criminals.

It’s important to plan ahead of time for the type of space and features you’ll need. For instance, a classic sports car is best kept inside a garage, while a boat with a good tarp cover can easily be stored outside. Some vehicles like campers can also be stored outside.

Do you have a plastic cover or tarp to wrap over your vehicle? This will help further protect it from sun, rain, snow and dust. Ask your storage manager for help with protecting your vehicle.

It’s important to know the exact measurements of your vehicle before you rent a storage unit. These measurements should include any trailer or platform you will be storing the vehicle on. For instance, your boat will most likely be delivered and stored on a trailer. Your measurements, therefore, should include the length and width of the trailer, and the height from the ground to the top of the vehicle boat when it is on the trailer.

Ask for a rental space at the back of the yard if you’ll be needing the vehicle only once or twice a year. But you may wish to ask for a space closer to the front gate if you’ll need it more frequently.

For liability purposes and for your protection, the storage manager may request that: Any wheeled vehicle be in drivable condition. You can store it securely on a trailer, but you may not place it on cinder blocks; Tires must be kept inflated and in good condition; Your vehicle must be registered and insured (you will need to provide proof of this); and

Storage units are for storage only. You may not use them to repair your vehicles or to perform maintenance on them. Remember that engine oil and other automotive liquids are hazardous, and the storage facility is not set up to dispose of these chemicals.

Call your local self storage facility today and tell the manager about your vehicle storage needs. They will help you determine your best and most cost-effective options for storing your car, boat, truck, mower or van.

About the author: Kurt Novak is a long-time property investor, entrepreneur and owner of a Columbus storage facility. Find great self storage tips at the Columbus Self Storage Blog.

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