What Size Storage Unit Is Best for a Car? A Complete Guide
What Size Storage Unit Is Best for a Car? A Complete Guide
Blog Article
When you need to store a car—whether it’s for a few weeks or several months—choosing the right size storage unit is crucial to ensuring the vehicle remains protected and secure. The size of the storage unit you need will depend on several factors, including the make and model of the car, the type of storage for auto you prefer (indoor or outdoor), and whether you require additional space for accessories or maintenance.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what size storage unit is best for a car, taking into account different vehicle types and various storage options to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Storage Units for Cars
Before diving into the sizes of storage units, it's important to understand the different types of storage available. There are three primary types of storage when it comes to cars: outdoor parking spaces, indoor parking spaces, and storage units.
Outdoor Parking Spaces:
Typically found in open lots, outdoor parking spaces offer a simple option for storing cars. While not enclosed, they provide a designated space for your car to be parked securely.
Size: Usually 9 feet wide and 18 feet long, which is the average size for a typical sedan or compact car.
Indoor Parking Spaces:
These spaces are usually located inside a building or facility and offer more protection against the elements. However, they may not always be enclosed in a way that provides complete security.
Size: Similar to outdoor spaces, indoor parking spaces typically range from 9 feet to 12 feet wide and 18 to 22 feet long.
Storage Units (Indoor Enclosures):
Storage units offer a fully enclosed and secure space for your vehicle. These can be indoor units within a climate-controlled facility or non-climate-controlled units, often used for long-term storage.
Size: Storage units come in various sizes, with typical sizes being 10 feet by 15 feet, 10 feet by 20 feet, and 10 feet by 30 feet.
How to Choose the Right Size Storage Unit for Your Car
The key factor in determining the appropriate size of storage unit for your car is the vehicle’s dimensions, followed by any additional space requirements. Here’s a breakdown based on different types of vehicles:
1. Compact Cars:
Examples: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3
Typical Dimensions: 6-7 feet wide and 12-14 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 10x15-foot storage unit is typically ideal for compact cars. The width of the unit allows for a bit of extra room around the car, providing space for opening doors and adding any accessories or equipment you may want to store with the car.
Why this size works: Compact cars are generally smaller in both width and length, meaning they fit comfortably in a 10x15 unit with plenty of space for maneuvering.
2. Sedans:
Examples: Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Typical Dimensions: 6-7 feet wide and 14-16 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 10x15-foot storage unit is a good fit for most sedans. If you have a larger sedan, such as a full-size or luxury sedan, a 10x20-foot unit may be a better option.
Why this size works: Sedans fit comfortably within the length of a 10x15 unit, and a 10x20 unit provides additional room if your vehicle is longer or if you want space to store other items with the car.
3. SUVs and Crossovers:
Examples: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape
Typical Dimensions: 6.5-8 feet wide and 15-18 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 10x20-foot unit is typically best for SUVs and crossovers. These vehicles are taller and wider than sedans, requiring more space to fit comfortably.
Why this size works: A 10x20-foot unit gives you enough room for the vehicle’s width and length. The extra space also allows for easy access to the car and extra room for other items.
4. Pickup Trucks:
Examples: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Tacoma
Typical Dimensions: 7-8 feet wide and 18-22 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 10x20-foot or 10x30-foot storage unit is recommended for full-sized pickup trucks. The larger size allows the truck to fit comfortably, particularly if it has a long bed or if you plan to store additional items with the vehicle.
Why this size works: Pickup trucks are typically longer and wider than most other vehicles, and a 10x20-foot unit offers the necessary length for the truck’s bed, while a 10x30-foot unit provides additional clearance.
5. Luxury or Exotic Cars:
Examples: Porsche 911, Ferrari 488, Tesla Model S
Typical Dimensions: 6-8 feet wide and 14-18 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 10x20-foot storage unit is ideal for most luxury or exotic cars. Some models may require a 10x30-foot unit depending on the size and the owner’s preference for extra space.
Why this size works: Many high-end cars have low profiles and wide bodies, so a 10x20-foot unit provides enough space for protection and security. Additionally, some luxury car owners prefer the extra room in a larger unit to ensure they have ample space to open the doors and avoid accidental scrapes or scratches.
6. Motorcycles, Classic Cars, and Smaller Vehicles:
Examples: Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Vintage Chevys
Typical Dimensions: Varies, but typically 3-5 feet wide and 7-10 feet long
Recommended Storage Size: A 5x10-foot or 10x10-foot storage unit will be ideal for motorcycles or small classic cars.
Why this size works: Smaller vehicles do not require the full space of a 10x15 unit, so opting for a smaller unit will be more cost-effective without compromising on protection.
Additional Considerations When Choosing a Storage Unit
Space for Extra Items: If you plan to store items other than the car itself—such as spare tires, tools, car covers, or maintenance equipment—you’ll need to factor in additional space. Choosing a 10x20 or 10x30 unit can provide enough room to store these items alongside the vehicle.
Access Needs: Think about how often you’ll need access to the vehicle. If you plan to drive the car periodically, consider selecting a larger unit that allows easy entry and exit. For long-term storage where you won’t need frequent access, a smaller unit may suffice, but it’s still important to have adequate space for maneuvering.
Climate Control: Some vehicles, particularly high-value, vintage, or classic cars, may require temperature-controlled storage to avoid damage from extreme temperatures or humidity. If you have such a vehicle, a climate-controlled 10x20 or 10x30 unit would be a good choice.
Security Features: Security should also be a priority, especially if you're storing an expensive car. Look for storage facilities that offer advanced security features such as 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and on-site personnel. Secure storage can give you peace of mind that your car is safe.
Conclusion
The best size storage unit for your car depends largely on its size and your specific storage needs. For compact cars and sedans, a 10x15-foot unit is typically sufficient. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and luxury cars generally require a 10x20 or 10x30-foot unit for optimal storage. When making your decision, also consider factors like whether you’ll be storing extra items with the car, how often you need to access the vehicle, and whether you need climate control for added protection.
By selecting the right storage unit size, you’ll ensure that your car is kept in excellent condition, safe from environmental elements, and protected from potential damage or theft. Always consult with your storage facility to discuss the exact dimensions of the unit and confirm that it will meet your needs before committing to a rental.