Deciding where to store your vehicle? Storage units are ideal car storage solutions because of their added protection and security, but there are some drawbacks to consider with auto storage. Check out the pros and cons of placing your car in storage!
| Pros of Storing a Car in a Storage Unit | Cons of Storing a Car in a Storage Unit |
| Secure Vehicle Storage | Storage Can Be Expensive |
| Protection from Elements | Potential Size Restrictions |
| Depreciation Prevention | Potential Vehicle Damage |
| Sense of Privacy & Control | Maintenance Requirements |
| Saves Space at Home |
Pros of Storing a Car in a Storage Unit
Whether you’re looking for a short-term or long-term car storage solution, storing your car in a monthly storage unit can be an affordable option. Here are the pros of using an auto storage unit!
Pro: Secure Vehicle Storage
Most car storage facilities have high-quality security features to protect your belongings, like:
- Surveillance cameras
- Locks
- Alarmed units
- Perimeter fencing
- Gated access
These features can add several layers of security to protect your vehicle from theft, vandalism, and other threats.
Pro: Protection from Elements
Extreme or even single exposure to intense weather conditions like rain, hail, snow, and harsh sunlight can fade paint, encourage rust, and trigger engine troubles. That’s why it’s important to consider how you’re going to store your car while you’re not using it. Car storage units not only increase security and help prevent theft or accidental damage, but vehicle storage units with climate-control can help shield your car from pests and damage by providing a consistent storage temperature—no matter the season.
Pro: Depreciation Prevention
By utilizing indoor car storage, you can help slow the depreciation of your vehicle. Depreciation occurs if its exterior is damaged by weather or other outside factors, and if it isn’t well-maintained by the owner. When using auto storage properly, your car is in a state of preservation, making it easier to reduce the rate of depreciation.
Pro: Sense of Privacy & Control
Storing a car in secure vehicle storage can help create a sense of control over your car’s environment. Auto storage is more private than parking it outside or in a parking lot, and you don’t need to worry about apartment or HOA guidelines. Additionally, car storage provides a designated space, so you can control who has access to it.
Pro: Saves Space at Home
If your home has limited parking or storage options, car storage can help you reclaim your driveway or garage, giving you space for storage or to set up a workshop, hobby room, gym, and more. Auto storage units are also a strategic, space-saving solution to reduce driveway congestion for cars that aren’t used frequently.
Cons of Storing a Car in a Storage Unit
Storing your vehicle in a storage unit can come with a few setbacks. Here are four cons to using car storage.
Con: Storage Can Be Expensive
The cost of renting a car storage unit varies, so it’s important to consider the expenses involved. Factors that may affect the price of an auto storage unit include:
- Location
- Unit size
- Amenities
While choosing, you’ll also have to weigh your priorities. For example, climate-controlled storage increases the cost, but if you live in a mild climate, you might not need it. Determine what unit size and amenities you need, compare prices from multiple storage facilities, and negotiate rates or look for promotions to get affordable car storage.
Con: Potential Size Restrictions
Choosing the right car unit size for you includes keeping your vehicle’s size in mind. Having a storage unit that’s too small could make parking your car difficult or cause damage, while a unit that’s too large can be a waste of space and money. Before renting a car storage unit, find your vehicle’s dimensions in your owner’s manual or you can measure them yourself. Once the dimensions are figured out, check out online tools to figure out what unit size would be best for your car, or you can also ask your local storage facility’s customer service team for more guidance.
Con: Potential Vehicle Damage
Despite auto storage units offering protection, there’s still a risk that your car could attract pests or become damaged or vandalized in outdoor storage. However, there are a few preventative measures you can take, including:
- Maintaining your vehicle’s insurance even while in storage
- Performing regular vehicle inspections
- Doing thorough research on the facilities you’re considering
By following these practices and choosing a reputable storage facility with reasonable security measures, you can prepare for any damages that may occur.
Con: Maintenance Requirements
When using a car storage unit, it’s important to keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance, and the frequency of maintenance will depend on how long you plan to store your car. A car sitting stationary in long-term auto storage has a greater chance of issues developing, so it will likely require more maintenance than a car in short-term storage. However, similar to winterizing your camper before utilizing RV storage options, you can minimize damage with preventative measures like:
- Resolving any mechanical issues
- Checking the tire pressure
- Topping off the fluids
- Choosing a climate-controlled storage unit
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Thinking about using vehicle storage for your car? Life Storage has convenient vehicle storage units to help preserve its condition. Rent a car storage unit today!
