Outdoor vs. Covered vs. Enclosed Car Storage
Car storage comes in three main forms, and the right one depends on the car, the season and how long it will sit.
- Outdoor parking spaces are marked spots in a fenced, gated lot. They're usually the most affordable and work well for short-term storage or everyday cars, ideally with a breathable cover.
- Covered spaces have a roof or carport-style canopy. They help protect paint and interiors from direct sun and keep hail and snow off the car.
- Enclosed drive-up units let you park the car inside a unit with a roll-up door. They offer the most privacy and protection from weather, and there's often room for tires, parts or other belongings.
Example: storing a convertible for the winter
If you only drive a convertible from spring to fall, you might clean it, top it up with fuel and stabilizer as your manual recommends, connect a battery maintainer if allowed and park it in a 10x20 unit from November to March. Snow and road salt never touch it, and it's ready the first warm weekend.
What Size Unit Fits a Car?
If you choose an enclosed unit, size matters. Unit sizes describe the floor, and the door opening is usually narrower than the unit's width, so measure your car's length, width with mirrors and height before you rent.
| Option | Floor area | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 10x15 | 150 sq. ft. | Usually too short for a car; may suit a motorcycle with gear |
| 10x20 | 200 sq. ft. | Most compact and midsize cars |
| 10x25 | 250 sq. ft. | Larger SUVs, pickup trucks, or a car plus storage |
| Parking space | Varies | Any registered vehicle, outdoors or covered |
Leave room to open at least one door so you can get in and out. If you're storing a long pickup or a larger SUV, a parking space may be more practical than a unit.
How to Prep a Car for Long-Term Storage
A car that sits for weeks or months needs some preparation. Your owner's manual is the best guide for your vehicle, but common steps include:
- Wash and dry the car, and clean the interior so food and crumbs don't attract pests.
- Follow the manufacturer's advice on fuel; many owners fill the tank and add a fuel stabilizer.
- Consider an oil change before storage if one is due soon.
- Disconnect the battery, or use a battery maintainer if the facility allows and power is available.
- Inflate tires to the recommended pressure to help prevent flat spots.
- Use a clean, breathable cover rather than a plastic tarp, which can trap moisture.
Think twice about the parking brake
Some owners avoid leaving the parking brake engaged for long periods and use wheel chocks instead. Check your owner's manual for what's recommended for your car.
Before you leave, take photos of the car from every angle and note the mileage, so you have a record of its condition. Remove valuables, garage door openers and important papers you won't need. If someone else may move or check on the car while you're away, ask the facility how to add them as an authorized user. When you return, check the tires, brakes and fluid levels, and look for signs of pests before driving any distance.
Insurance, Registration and Facility Rules
Most facilities ask for proof of ownership, current registration and insurance before they'll rent you a vehicle space. Requirements vary by facility and state, so ask early. Some insurers offer reduced coverage for cars that are stored and not being driven; talk to your insurer about what's available and what your state requires before you change your policy. If your registration will expire while the car is stored, check with your state's motor vehicle agency about your options.
Read the facility's rules, too. Many don't allow repairs or fluid changes on site, restrict items kept in or around the car, and prohibit fuel cans and other hazardous materials. If you're deploying, see our active duty storage guide for help with payments and access while you're away.
What Does Car Storage Cost?
Prices vary by city, facility, space type and availability. Outdoor spaces are generally the least expensive, covered spaces cost more, and enclosed drive-up units usually cost the most. Check whether the advertised price is an introductory rate, ask about access hours and security features such as gates, lighting and cameras, and confirm any insurance requirements before move-in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Storage
What size storage unit do I need for a car?
A 10x20 unit fits most passenger cars, while a 10x25 gives more room for larger SUVs, pickup trucks or extra storage around the car. Measure your vehicle and check the door opening, since it's usually narrower than the unit.
Is a 10x10 storage unit big enough for a car?
No for most cars. A 10x10 is only ten feet deep, which is shorter than a typical passenger car. Start with a 10x20 if you want an enclosed unit.
What's the difference between outdoor, covered and enclosed car storage?
Outdoor storage is an open parking space, usually the most affordable. Covered storage adds a roof that helps with sun, hail and snow. An enclosed drive-up unit keeps the car behind a locked door, out of the weather and out of sight.
Do I need insurance to store my car?
Many facilities require proof of insurance for stored vehicles. Some insurers offer reduced or storage-only coverage for cars that aren't being driven, so ask your insurer what options make sense, and don't drop coverage without checking the facility's rules and your state's requirements.
Does my car need to be registered to store it?
Most facilities ask for current registration and proof of ownership. Registration requirements vary by state, so check with your state's motor vehicle agency if your registration will lapse while the car is stored.
How do I prepare my car for long-term storage?
Common steps include washing and drying it, following your owner's manual on fuel and stabilizer, looking after the battery, inflating the tires correctly and removing food or trash. A breathable cover helps, especially in an outdoor space.
Can I start or work on my car at the storage facility?
You can usually start the car and drive it in and out. Most facilities don't allow repairs, fluid changes or other maintenance on site, so check the rules before planning any work.
Can I store things in my car while it's in storage?
Policies vary. Many facilities discourage or prohibit storing belongings in a vehicle in a parking space, and hazardous items such as fuel cans are generally not allowed. An enclosed unit is a better choice if you need space for a car and extra items.
Should I choose climate control for a classic car?
Some owners of classic or high-value cars prefer an enclosed unit, and where available, climate controlled storage, to limit moisture and temperature swings. Drive-up units with climate control are less common, so ask the facility what's available.
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