Need a place to store your pride and joy? Before handing over the keys to just anyone, here's what you should know about how risky or reliable outdoor storage facilities are for your vehicle.
When choosing a reliable storage company, you can entrust them to handle and store all types of vehicles, including:
- Cars
- Recreational vehicles, caravans and trailers
- Boats and all types of watercraft
- All-terrain vehicles
- Snowmobiles
The benefits
The space that you free-up in your yard is one of the biggest advantages of storage. However, you will also benefit from the peace of mind knowing that your vehicles are properly secured against theft, vandalism and damage.
- As such, outdoor storage yards are usually gated, well-lit and monitored by camera. Some companies also provide the services of a security guard.
Cost
Usually, the rate is determined by the number of linear feet required or by the size of the parking space. On average, calculate about $1 per foot: for example, a 30-foot recreational vehicle will cost you roughly $30 per month.
- Though many individuals offer to rent space on their private property for storage, their pricing is rarely competitive. Furthermore, you won’t be covered by insurance or the security that comes with a commercial storage facility. Storing your vehicle on a person's private property is a bad idea, even if the intentions are good.
Who can you trust?
Cars, RVs, campers and trailers
- Storage companies specialized in storing recreational vehicles, campers and trailers; as well as the companies that sell them, offer storage during the off season. They take all necessary steps to properly "winterize" your RV.
- Snowmobiles may be stored indoors or outdoors. However, you will pay much less for outdoor storage.
Boats, watercraft
You can always find boat storage services at marinas.
- A watercraft, if small enough, can be placed on a dry-dock cradle in a shed.
- When stored outside, boats are usually protected by a heat shrink wrap.
- Jet skis can also be stored at the marina, but it will undoubtedly cost you more than outside storage.
Don't forget
Modify your insurance policy before you put your vehicle into storage.
- The storage company should also be able to provide you with additional insurance coverage.
Boats must be "winterized", which means additional precautions must be taken to prevent breakage and to prolong the life of the boat and its motor.
- Only marinas and specialized companies offer boat winterizing services. Otherwise, you’ll have to do yourself.
Recreational vehicles also require a little maintenance and detailing before winter.
Get quotes from at least three different service providers, as prices vary from one site to another, especially depending on the location (cities are more expensive). While price is certainly a draw for choosing a place to store your vehicle, consider the company's reputation: is the money you save worth the risk of a vehicle that cost thousands of dollars?
