Factors Affecting Monthly Car Storage Costs & How to Save

If you're considering storing your car, one of the first things you'll likely wonder about is how much it costs per month. Whether you need short-term storage while travelling or are seeking a long-term solution to protect a classic car, it's essential to understand the factors that affect pricing. The cost of car storage can fluctuate based on various elements like storage type, location, security features, and even the size of your vehicle. 

Car storage can be a great option for keeping your vehicle safe from the elements, preventing wear and tear, and reducing the risk of theft. From simple outdoor parking spaces to high-end, climate-controlled units, there are multiple choices to meet your needs. By understanding the car storage options per month, you’ll be able to select the most suitable and cost-effective option. In this blog, we’ll break down the key factors that impact car storage pricing and share tips to help you save while keeping your car protected.

1. Location of the Storage Facility

One of the most significant factors affecting the cost of car storage per month is the location of the storage facility. Simply put, where you choose to store your car has a direct impact on the price you'll pay. 

• Urban vs. Rural: In large cities, storage facilities tend to be more expensive due to higher demand and limited space. Major metropolitan areas have a higher cost of real estate, which means the price of storage units will be inflated.  

• Proximity to You: If you need frequent access to your car, opting for a facility near your home might be more convenient, but it may come with a higher price tag. However, if you’re storing your vehicle for an extended period and don’t need frequent access, a facility located a bit further out may offer more affordable rates. 

2. Type of Storage: Indoor vs. Outdoor

The type of storage you choose has a huge impact on the cost of car storage per month. In general, indoor storage units tend to be more expensive than outdoor storage, but they provide extra protection. 

• Indoor Storage: This type of storage offers a higher level of protection for your car, shielding it from elements like rain, snow, extreme heat, and dust. Indoor units are ideal for storing high-value vehicles, vintage cars, or cars that need to be kept in pristine condition. 

• Outdoor Storage: Outdoor storage is often a more affordable option, costing between $50 and $150 per month on average. However, the trade-off is that your vehicle will be exposed to weather conditions.  

3. Size of the Vehicle

Another major factor influencing your car storage cost per month is the size of the vehicle you need to store. Larger vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and RVs require more space, which in turn increases the storage price. 

• Standard Cars: Most storage units that accommodate regular-sized cars like sedans, coupes, or hatchbacks will cost less than those for larger vehicles.

• Larger Vehicles (SUVs, Trucks, RVs): If you're storing an SUV or a large truck, you'll need a larger unit, typically a 12x25 or a 12x30 space. RVs and boats can require even bigger storage areas, and these units can be considerably more expensive due to the extra space they take up.

4. Length of Storage

How long you plan to store your car can also impact the car storage cost per month. Most storage facilities offer discounts or more affordable rates for long-term storage. If you’re planning to store your car for several months or even years, you might be able to negotiate a lower monthly rate. 

• Short-Term Storage: If you only need to store your car for a short period (e.g., a few weeks to a couple of months), expect to pay the standard monthly rate, which is typically higher than long-term options.

• Long-Term Storage: Storage providers often offer discounts or reduced rates for customers who store their vehicles for extended periods. For example, a facility might offer a 10-15% discount if you commit to a storage contract for 6 months or longer.

5. Security Features

Security is an important factor when storing your vehicle, and the level of security provided at the facility can impact the overall cost. Higher security usually comes with higher fees. 

• Standard Security: Most storage facilities offer basic security, which includes things like gated access, surveillance cameras, and sometimes on-site staff. This type of facility is often more affordable but provides a basic level of protection. 

• Premium Security: For higher security, which may include features such as alarm systems, 24-hour surveillance, and individual unit locks, you can expect to pay more. Premium security is often found in facilities that store luxury cars, classic cars, or other high-value vehicles.

6. Seasonal Demand

The time of year can affect the cost of car storage per month. During certain seasons, such as winter in colder climates, the demand for indoor storage spaces may increase, leading to higher prices. Conversely, during the off-season, such as spring or summer, when fewer people are looking for storage, the prices may decrease. 

If you're looking to save money, consider storing your vehicle during the off-season. This could help you find discounts or lower rates for the same level of service.

How to Save on Car Storage Costs 

Now that we've explored the key factors that affect storage costs, let's look at some practical ways to save money: 

• Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first storage facility you find. Compare prices and services at multiple facilities to ensure you're getting the best deal. 
• Opt for Outdoor Storage: If you don't mind your car being exposed to the elements, choosing outdoor storage can save you a significant amount of money compared to indoor units. 
• Take Advantage of Discounts: Look for special promotions, such as first-month-free deals or long-term storage discounts, which many facilities offer to attract new customers. 
• Store Multiple Vehicles: If you have more than one vehicle to store, ask the facility if they provide a discount for storing multiple cars. 
• Choose a Longer Term: If you know you’ll need long-term storage, commit to a longer contract to benefit from discounted monthly rates. 

You may also read: Long-Term vs. Short-Term Car Storage: What’s the Best Option for You?

Conclusion 

The cost of car storage per month depends on several factors, including the location of the storage facility, the type of storage, the size of your vehicle, the length of storage, and the level of security. It's important to evaluate all of these factors before committing to a storage unit to make an informed decision. What size storage do I need for a car? Most standard vehicles fit into a 10x20 storage unit, but larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or RVs may require larger spaces. Be sure to select the right size to ensure that your car is stored safely and securely.