When you own a vehicle but don’t have a reliable parking spot, vehicle ownership can become a hassle. If you have office space in a downtown area or live in an apartment complex, finding a safe parking space in a convenient location at a decent price can be a daunting task. 

Self-storage facilities provide an affordable alternative for storing an extra set of wheels and sometimes provide security features that may not be offered at your current parking space. 

Here’s a closer look at the parking solutions offered by self-storage experts in your area. 

Self-Storage Options for Your Vehicle

Storage facilities typically have various types of vehicle storage available. Storage options vary by price, outdoor exposure, and security features. 

Outdoor Parking Spaces
Storage facilities have both open outdoor spaces and covered outdoor spaces. These parking spaces are located on paved or gravel lots and provide a great solution for short term storage needs, for larger vehicles, and for less-expensive vehicles. Because these spaces are the most exposed to elements and have the least amount of security features, they are the most affordable vehicle storage option. 

Garage Parking Spaces
These parking spaces are located a basic garage structure with a pull-down garage door. This storage option is more expensive because it provides greater protection from the elements and more security than outdoor parking spaces. 

Indoor Parking Spaces
Indoor parking is the most expensive storage option because it provides the most protection for your vehicle. These parking spaces are located in the main building of the storage facility for increased security. The main storage building also often has central heating and cooling to control the climate of your parking space, keeping it between 50- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit. 

Helpful Hints for Vehicle Storage 

• Measure your vehicle before renting a parking space to ensure that your vehicle isn’t too tall or wide for your storage space 
• Most storage facilities offer monthly contracts, so consider storing your vehicle during off-seasons or during an extended vacation 
• Classic car and sports car owners typically store their vehicles in an indoor space and lay down a piece of carpet for added vehicle protection 
• If you need to use your stored vehicle frequently you may want to request a parking space or unit close to the storage facility’s entrance so you’ll be able to quickly exit and enter with your vehicle 
• If you rent an outdoor space you may want to purchase a cover for your vehicle to protect it from extreme weather conditions. If your vehicle is an eyesore, the manager may require you to purchase a cover for your vehicle. Storage facilities often have vehicle covers available for purchase at the facility store 

Basic Vehicle Requirements at Most Self Storage Facilities 

• Storage units are for storage purposes only. Using your self-storage unit as a workshop for cars is not prohibited because storage facilities have no way of disposing of harmful chemicals 
• Vehicles must be in working, drivable condition. They cannot be towed onto the premises and stored on blocks 
• Tires must be in good condition and must be inflated 
• Storage tenants must provide required proof of registration and insurance for most vehicles stored at storage facilities 

Managers of storage facilities will be able to give you further guidance and tips for storing your car, truck, or van so you can get the most out of your self-storage.