Out of garage space? Find the best classic car storage solution so you don’t have to get rid of that collector just yet.
Owning a classic car is a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its difficulties. For one, there’s maintenance and upkeep — a cost that can reach into the stratosphere for some collectors. Then there’s the issue of storage, especially if you live somewhere with legitimate winter weather. Even if you don’t get to experience the joys of a sub-zero winter, sometimes having a vehicle parked in your garage or driveway just isn’t practical or convenient.
When you find yourself in this predicament, you have a few different options. You can just leave the car parked where it is and deal with any inconveniences (a life in denial). You can sell the car (a life of no fun). Or you can put the car in storage, allowing you to keep the car while getting it out of the way for a while.
The best option is clear, so we’re here to help you find the best classic car storage solution for your needs.
How to Find the Best Classic Car Storage Facility
The good news is there are vehicle storage facilities in all 50 states, but not all car storage businesses are created equal. Depending on your needs, there are a few things to keep in mind as you shop around for collector car storage near you.
Different facilities offer different services, so it’s important to review each offering to determine which one best meets your needs. You can hit Google for a list of closeby facilities, but from there it’s up to you to find the best classic car storage for you — and your car.
In general, there are a few factors to consider.
Parking Options
Security
Additional Services
Location
Cost
Prepare Your Car for Storage
Clean the Vehicle
Mind the Fluids
Charge the Battery
FAQ
Do I need car storage?
It can be tempting to move a vehicle into storage to keep it safe and clean when not in use, but it’s also an expense that adds up over time. A better solution might be to keep the vehicle at home if you have the space, but that’s a decision only you can make. The upside to car storage is that many facilities are climate-controlled and feature around-the-clock security — benefits even the nicest home garages usually don’t have.
Another consideration is how important the vehicle is to you. If it’s expensive, rare, and difficult to replace, the decision to store it should be a pretty easy one to make. On the other hand, people who collect oddball cars that aren’t as valuable in the traditional sense of the word might have a harder time justifying the cost of storage.
What if my car gets damaged?
The storage facility should have insurance to cover any damage that occurs to the vehicle while it’s in the garage. Check before you pony up the cash for a parking spot, though, because every facility and insurance policy is different. It’s also important to note that putting your car in storage doesn’t mean you should cancel your own insurance policy.
My car has special storage needs. What should I do?
If you own a customized car or one that rides very low, you should check with the facility to make sure that it’s equipped to handle your particular vehicle. The same goes for large trucks or oversized cars. You may be required to pay extra for additional space or for special accommodations.
Call ahead before booking a storage space if you have any special needs you need to have addressed.
