Why Do People Put Their Cars in Storage? 6 Benefits of Vehicle Storage Unveiled

Last Updated on June 17, 2024

Updated Jun 17 2024.

Do you need a place to store your car or truck? Have a valuable vintage vehicle but no place to keep it at home? Whether you’re going to be out of town for a few months for work, military deployment or simply lack the space at home for your collection, it’s worth inquiring about auto  storage at a nearby facility.

Storage facilities offer several vehicle storage options, ranging from enclosed storage units with drive-up access to covered spaces or a fenced parking lot, and all these options are increasingly popular.

For one, not everyone has extra space at home and parking spots can be hard to come by, especially in big cities where every inch counts. Then there’s the weather — no one wants their car buried under a snowdrift or baked in the summer heat. And let’s not forget about places with strict rules on where you can park.

1. Flexibility in Vehicle Storage Options

Got different vehicles with different needs? Vehicle storage facilities offer various options to fit every type of vehicle, from your daily driver to that cherished classic car.

• Nearby outdoor storage is the most affordable parking option for everyday vehicles. It’s simple and accessible and provides basic protection from theft or parking fines.
• Step it up a notch with covered storage. It offers a bit more protection against the elements, making it a good choice for vehicles you might not use daily but still want to keep in good shape.
• Now, if you’re looking to give the ultimate protection for a classic, luxury or especially sensitive vehicle, an indoor and climate-controlled unit is the way to go.

2. Vehicle Protection from Elements

Outdoor vehicle storage may be the most well-known and affordable form of secure vehicle parking, but it won’t protect our car from the elements—such as hail, snow, severe rainstorms, or UV rays. As we mentioned above, covered storage would provide an additional layer of protection. This comes at a slightly higher cost than a plain parking spot and gives your vehicle an awning or other overhead cover.

Level up your protection by investing in an indoor storage unit for your vehicle. This can be in a designated garage, but it is much more likely in a large storage unit with drive-up access. While it’s likely the most expensive of all vehicle storage options, it also adds the most protection from weather, vandalism or theft.

3. Enhanced Security Features

Circling back to outdoor vehicle storage, rest assured that, although not protecting your vehicle investment from weather damage, it sure deters criminals. That’s because most storage locations are equipped with round-the-clock CCTV surveillance.

Another layer of protection is through gated entries — only those with the correct code or key can enter, which means no unauthorized person can access your vehicle.

Plus, many facilities boost their security with regular patrols for extra secure vehicle parking. Trained security personnel walk the grounds, providing another set of eyes on your vehicle and responding immediately to any irregularities.

Note: Storing vehicles at car storage facilities can also minimize exposure to potential accidents or vandalism when not in regular use.

4. Preserving Car Value

Got a classic car or a fancy ride? Good storage and proper vehicle maintenance during storage are the equivalent of giving it a luxury spa treatment. And it pays off big time — when it’s time to sell, a well-kept car rolls out with a price tag that smiles back at you.

For that to happen, snag an indoor climate-controlled storage unit. This will keep the harsh weather from throwing a party on your paint and interiors. No sun tans and no frostbites mean your ride stays looking fresh and fly, boosting its resale swagger. When buyers see a car that’s been living the good life, they’re ready to pay up for that shiny, pampered look.

5. Space-Saving Solutions for Your Home

Tired of seeing your garage as a storage closet for your car rather than a part of your home? Move that ride into vehicle storage, organize your garage and watch its new life unfold. Imagine transforming that cluttered space into a workout area, a workshop or even a chill zone for hangouts — you free up valuable square footage and boost your mood.

Is your car parked outside? Think about the curb appeal. Neat and tidy driveways without a car in sight can make your whole block look sharper. Plus, if your neighborhood has rules about where cars can be parked, using a storage facility keeps you in everyone’s good graces.

6. Compliance with Local Parking Laws

Speaking of neighbors, do you happen to live in a place with strict parking rules? Some areas are very specific about not parking on the street overnight or limit how many cars you can have in your driveway.

If this is your case, go ahead and park your extra car or that rarely-used RV in a nearby storage facility to dodge pesky fines and complaints. Whether it’s street cleaning regulations or HOA guidelines, having a safe go-to spot for your vehicle means one less thing to worry about.

What Vehicle Storage Options Strike Your Fancy?

Now that we’ve gone over six of the most important benefits of vehicle storage and pointed out key differences in indoor vs outdoor car storage, which of these solutions suits your needs best? Here’s a recap, just in case:

Find vehicle storage options near you and snag that sweet spot for your car today for long-term vehicle care like no other. And when you are ready, be sure to properly prepare your vehicle for storage.