Storing Vehicles at Self Storage Facilities
Using a self storage facility to store extra vehicles, an RV, boat or other piece of transportation equipment can make it easier for many homeowners to free up space at their home. Additionally, some equipment might be only used seasonally, like jet skis or boats.
Renting a Self Storage Space
Before you commit to a self storage unit, be sure to talk to the rental manager about rules and regulations regarding the storage of vehicles or equipment. For many people, storing an RV or vehicle because they are traveling or want to free up space at their residence means that they will need to occasionally have access to their vehicle, but may also want to ensure that extra security is available to protect their vehicles.
Many self storage spaces require that you provide proof of insurance and registration for any vehicles kept on the property, particularly cars, boats and RV units. While larger self storage units may be adequate for storing some boats, jet skis and even four wheel ATVs, you will probably need to rent a separate space for your RV.
RV rental spaces range from an assigned space in an open fenced parking lot to assigned spaces in enclosed buildings or covered lots. Renters are not allowed to live in their RV units while they are located on the self storage premises, nor are renters allowed to keep animals in their units. Usually RV units must be maintained in good external condition, including inflation of tires.
Additional Considerations
Ask the storage space rental manager how long you can store your vehicle at their facility. Many facilities have limitations on how long a car or RV can be held on premises, but may have no limitations on smaller vehicles like jet skis or ATVs.
If you are planning on RV storage, you may want to ask about cleaning facilities or whether there are provisions for the dumping of sewage tanks or refilling of water tanks. You may also want to ask if there are electrical outlets for lighting, charging batteries or other activities while you either clean your RV or get ready to leave on a trip.
If you live in an area that is subject to significant extremes in the weather during the winter or summer months, you may want to inquire about climate controlled long term storage for your RV or vehicle.
Security
One area of primary concern for vehicle owners who store their cars, boats or RV at a self storage facility is what kind of security is available at the facility. Relevant issues include how the self storage facility is accessed – is there a gate that requires a security code entered onto a keypad.
Also important is whether or not there are security cameras at the entrance and exit of the facility and is there a manager on-site who monitors the activities that take place on the premises. Some facilities have an on-site manger who is only available during hours when the storage facility is open, while others have a manager who lives on the premises and monitors the entire facility, even when renters do not have access to their property.
Access
One issue of concern should be access to the self storage and vehicle storage facility. Some facilities only allow access during hours of operation. However, others allow 24 hour access, even during the night. These facilities should be well lighted for security purposes.
You also need to know how your vehicle is allowed access or delivery to the self storage site. For example, are you only allowed to drive your vehicle into your storage unit or are you allowed to deliver it on a flat bed truck or via tow truck.
Also, you should understand the limitations of how you vehicle storage at your storage space. Some self storage facilities limit how long you can store a vehicle on their premises or what kinds of vehicles are allowed in particular types of self storage spaces. For example, they may only allow jet skis or ATVs in smaller enclosed self storage units, but require cars, boats and RV units to be stored in areas specifically designated for vehicle storage.
Summary
Many people find that vehicle storage is one way to free up space at their residence or that they need to store a car, boat or other vehicle during periods of time when they will not be using that vehicle or if they will be traveling for an extended period of time. If you find that you will need to use a self storage facility for vehicle storage, ask about security and the specific limitations your storage company has about the vehicle you want to store. Be prepared to show proof of registration and insurance for cars, boats and your RV and that you will not be allowed to live or reside in your vehicle for any length of time.
Simply Self Storage - What Could be Easier than Simply?
Simply Self Storage is the largest privately owned self storage company in the United States and Puerto Rico. We own and/or operate over 228 facilities with over 16.1 million square feet of storage space.

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