Safely Storing Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle in Self-Storage (2024)

Posted on March 28, 2024 at 10:00 am

Recreational vehicles, boats, and automobiles often represent significant investments, and it is vital to properly store and maintain them when not in use. Self-storage facilities provide a practical and secure solution for individuals seeking an effective way to protect their prized possessions from potential damage, theft, or the elements. Storing your assets in a secure and well-maintained self-storage facility can significantly prolong their lifespan, maintain their value, and ensure they are always ready for your next adventure.

Attic Plus Storage, a locally-owned and family-operated self-storage business in the Greater Birmingham, AL area, understands the importance of finding the perfect storage solution to accommodate your RV, boat, or vehicle. Our state-of-the-art facility offers secure and accessible storage options tailored to meet the unique requirements and dimensions of these larger investments.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the best practices for safely and effectively storing your RV, boat, or vehicle in a self-storage facility, including the benefits of doing so and the factors to consider when selecting the ideal storage provider. Additionally, we will provide practical tips on preparing and maintaining your investments in storage to ensure they remain in pristine condition for future use.

1. The Benefits of Utilizing Self-Storage for Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle

Storing your RV, boat, or vehicle in a self-storage facility presents numerous advantages, including:

– Security: Reputable facilities are equipped with advanced security features, such as surveillance cameras, access gates, and alarmed units, providing peace of mind that your investments are protected from theft or vandalism.

– Weather Protection: Storing your items in a covered or enclosed storage space shields them from potential damage caused by harsh weather conditions or natural disasters.

– Space Conservation: Self-storage frees up valuable space in your driveway, garage, or yard, enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your property.

– Compliance: Some residential communities have restrictions on parking RVs, boats, or trailers in public view; self-storage offers a practical solution for abiding by these requirements.

2. Factors to Consider When Selecting a Self-Storage Facility

When choosing a storage facility for your RV, boat, or vehicle, keep the following factors in mind:

– Accessibility: Select a facility that offers convenient access hours and is located within a reasonable distance from your residence or preferred recreational destinations.

– Security Measures: Opt for a storage provider with robust security features, such as 24-hour surveillance, access control, and well-lit premises, to ensure the safety of your possessions.

– Storage Options: Consider the variety of storage options available, including outdoor parking spaces, covered storage, and fully enclosed units, to determine the level of protection and privacy that best suits your needs.

– Customer Service: A facility that prioritizes excellent customer service and communication can help address questions, concerns, or issues that may arise more efficiently and effectively.

3. Preparing Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle for Storage

To maintain the condition and longevity of your investment while in storage, follow these essential preparation steps:

– Clean Thoroughly: Before storing your item, wash its exterior and clean the interior to remove dirt, debris, food particles, and personal belongings, preventing mold, mildew, or pest infestations.

– Perform Necessary Maintenance: Check for any mechanical issues or necessary repairs, and perform routine maintenance such as oil changes or winterizing in preparation for storage.

– Protect Against Elements: Shield your investment from potential damage by utilizing protective covers, moisture-absorbing materials, or corrosion inhibitors.

– Disconnect Power: Disconnect your RV, boat, or vehicle’s battery to avoid draining the charge or contributing to electrical issues during storage.

4. Maintaining Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle While in Storage

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring your investment remains in optimal condition during storage:

– Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic visits to your storage unit to assess the condition of your RV, boat, or vehicle, address any issues, and ensure the facility’s security measures are fully operational.

– Tire Care: Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure and consider using tire covers or blocks to prevent flat spots or premature wear.

– Keep It Covered: Utilize a high-quality, breathable cover to shield your investment from dust, debris, and potential damage.

– Stay Up-to-Date with Payments: Be aware of your storage facility’s payment deadlines and policies to avoid late fees or potential loss of access to your possessions.

Final Thoughts

Storing your RV, boat, or vehicle in a self-storage facility offers a secure, convenient, and efficient solution to ensure their protection during periods of disuse or unfavorable weather conditions. By selecting the right storage provider, properly preparing and maintaining your investment, and following best practices for storage, you can rest assured that your valuable possessions remain in excellent condition and ready for your next adventure.

Attic Plus Storage, a locally-owned and family-operated self-storage business in the Greater Birmingham, AL area, is dedicated to providing secure and tailored storage solutions for RV, boat, and vehicle owners. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a range of storage options and advanced security features, ensuring the safety and accessibility of your prized investments.

Are you in search of a dependable and secure self-storage solution for your RV, boat, or vehicle? Contact Attic Plus Storage today and discover our range of customized storage options designed to safeguard your possessions and provide peace of mind during the off-season.

Safely Storing Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle in Self-Storage (2024)

FAQs

Safely Storing Your RV, Boat, or Vehicle in Self-Storage? ›

Look for a facility that offers 24-hour surveillance and secure gate access. You should also consider the location of the facility. It should be easily accessible and close to your home or your favorite National Park where you frequently use your vehicle or RV.

How do I prepare my RV for storage? ›

RV Storage: 12 Tips for Properly Storing your RV
  1. Store Your RV in a Covered Facility. ...
  2. Cover All Vents and Places that Insects Could Possibly Crawl Into. ...
  3. Remove All Perishables (and Non-Perishables!) and Open Up All Cabinets. ...
  4. Cover All Furniture. ...
  5. Prepare Your Fridge and Freezer for the Coming Winter. ...
  6. Keep Out the Rodents.

Can a boat be in storage? ›

Can You Put a Boat in a Storage Unit? In many cases, indoor boat storage means storing your boat in a large indoor facility that is shared by other boat storage customers. But depending on the location, you may find individual storage units large enough to accommodate your boat.

Should RV be stored in or out? ›

Determine if you should store your RV indoors.

This will be more expensive, but will often have the additional options of being able to keep it in a temperature-controlled facility or plugged in. If storing outdoors, consider an RV cover to protect the exterior from damaging weather and UV rays.

How is it best to store a motorhome? ›

Security. No matter where you decide to store it, it's well worth fitting some extra security. All security can act as a deterrent but we recommend: At home, store your motorhome as far from the road as possible, blocking it in with a temporary fence panel or another vehicle.

How do I keep moisture out of my camper in storage? ›

  1. Buy a Dehumidifier. Buying a high quality humidifier is important to prevent mold growth on many levels. ...
  2. Use Moisture-Removing Crystals or Chemical Packets. ...
  3. Wipe Down All Surfaces. ...
  4. Open Up Your Cabinets and Closet Doors. ...
  5. Remove as Much Fabric as Possible. ...
  6. Ensure all Pipes are Bone-Dry. ...
  7. Use a Fan for Airflow. ...
  8. Run a Heater.
Dec 7, 2020

How big of a storage unit do I need for a boat? ›

12×35 Storage Units: The Ultimate Space for Large Boats

If you're a proud owner of a large boat like a yacht or sailboat, the 12×35 storage units are the best fit. These units can also accommodate trailers and accessories. Note: Always measure your boat's height, width, and length before selecting a storage unit.

How do you prepare a boat for long term storage? ›

Here are some key steps to take:
  1. Disconnect the battery to prevent discharge and corrosion.
  2. Fog the engine.
  3. Drain the water line.
  4. Add a fuel stabilizer with antifreeze to the fuel, then run the engine for a few minutes to allow the fuel to circulate through the system.

Should I disconnect my RV battery when in storage? ›

So, if storing for a month or two, charge the battery and then disconnect it completely. If storing for longer, get a proper trickle charger made for long-term battery maintenance and either take the battery home to maintain it or leave it disconnected in the trailer with the trickle charger attached.

Where is the best place to store an RV? ›

In this case, renting a self storage unit is an ideal way to keep it away from home, especially if you go for a climate-controlled unit which helps to avoid any temperature- or humidity-related damage to your vehicle. You'll need a 10'x30′ or larger unit, depending on the size of your RV.

How many years do motorhomes last? ›

How long an RV, motorhome, or travel trailer lasts depends on various factors. However, generally speaking, two decades is reasonable for a well-maintained vehicle. The average lifespan of a Class A or a Class B RV or motorhome is between 10 and 20 years.

How do you store RV in the summer? ›

If storing an RV in heat, humidity, or varying temperatures, consider installing roof vents that allow you to keep them permanently open while also protecting the RV from precipitation. Many first-time RV owners also hang gel packs that pull the moisture out of the air or occasionally run a dehumidifier.

Should a motorhome be plugged in all winter? ›

If batteries get too hot or too cold, they will lose voltage capacity over time. So, if you're planning on storing your RV outside for the winter while plugged in, it might make more sense to remove the batteries and charge them occasionally overwinter instead. Freezing can hurt battery life.

Should you store your RV with full tank of gas? ›

Always store the vehicle with a full fuel tank, which helps to reduce the amount of air in the tank, reducing condensation-related problems. If the engine didn't get stored with an additive, adding one now may help until you can add fresh fuel.

Should I store my RV with water in the tank? ›

When the camper is going to sit unused for days or longer, and it's below freezing outside, and there's water in the tank, the answer is: drain it. But if you're concerned about it freezing when the camper is in more or less active use, you may not need to do anything special.

How do I prepare my RV black tank for storage? ›

How To Prepare Your RV Holding Tanks For Storage
  1. Key Points:
  2. Dump your black tank. ...
  3. Always rinse/flush your tanks after each trip. ...
  4. Store your dumped and rinsed black tank with clean water and a treatment product.
Sep 8, 2020

Should I remove RV batteries for winter? ›

When you store your RV during the offseason, you also need to remove your battery and keep it in a warm location. If you leave it in, the water in your battery may freeze when the temperature drops too low. This happens because a battery loses its sulfuric acid when it discharges and leaves water behind.

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