Selecting the Right RV Storage Facility
09-04-2017
Author: in The Road Less Traveled
Even full-time RVers may need or want to store their home on wheels occasionally, and for most it's a necessity for at least part of the year. Placing it in a driveway with a fabric RV cover is one option. Parking it under a carport or in a large garage on your own property or that of a friend is another. If you don't want the hassle of inconveniencing your friends and neighbors (and potentially the community, depending on the city), renting a commercial RV storage facility, may be the best option.
Leaving your RV exposed to hail, snow, and ultra violet rays may contribute to problems with the fiberglass, paint, roof, or window seals over time. RV storage protects your RV not only from damage of direct sunlight and inclement weather, but also (in the best cases) from theft. Parking in an enclosed space helps keep out bugs, debris, and vermin and keeps the exterior cleaner, as well.
What Should You Get?
Optimally, your rental space should be in a convenient location that you can easily get in and out, in a safe neighborhood, and close enough that you can regularly visit. Generally, you have two storage options: closed and open storage.
Closed Storage: This type of facility has a lot going for it. It features enclosed individual storage units that are lockable from the outside. This ensures that your camper is protected from UV rays, weather, and theft. They even offer climate controlled spaces, which is beneficial especially in areas that experience extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Merely, choose the smallest storage unit that's large enough for your motorhome. Unfortunately, closed units are typically quite expensive compared to the other options.
Open Storage: An open storage lot leaves your RV much more vulnerable than a closed unit, however, it is nearly always less expensive. If cost is a concern, use due diligence to ensure its security.
Visit the lot before committing to it. Examine the fencing and gates for sturdiness and impenetrability. Check that surveillance cameras cover all storage spaces, especially where your RV may be parked. Inquire about staff and security measures. The facility should have regular, posted hours during which time clients can enter the premises via a gate accessed by code that is operable only during those hours. When open, it is staffed with well-vetted, bonded employees. After hours, it should be monitored by a security patrol, 24-hour recorded surveillance with motion sensors, and perhaps even trained guard dogs to ensure the safety of your belongings.
Although leaving your motorhome on the street leaves it open to burglary and vandalism, some storage areas aren't much better. Even in reputable lots, anyone with a code can enter the place. Make sure to take precautions. Lock all doors and windows; add a good deadbolt to your entry door and in the tongue of anything towable.
Verify the reputation of the facility with the Better Business Bureau. They should have a good record without reports of break-ins, burglary, or vandalism. You could also check their references; ask for the contact information of two long-term clients—at least a full year. Then follow up with them.
In Conclusion
A motorhome or travel trailer is an investment, and you want to protect it as such. With so many RV storage facilities around, you're sure to find one in your area that fits your needs, as well as your wallet. It's better to be safe than sorry!
Related Read: Selecting the Right RV Cover for Winter
What Is the Benefit?Leaving your RV exposed to hail, snow, and ultra violet rays may contribute to problems with the fiberglass, paint, roof, or window seals over time. RV storage protects your RV not only from damage of direct sunlight and inclement weather, but also (in the best cases) from theft. Parking in an enclosed space helps keep out bugs, debris, and vermin and keeps the exterior cleaner, as well.
Related Read: Winterizing Your RV for Storage
If you don’t have property on which to store your RV when it's not in use (or you don't want to invest in installing a long-term carport or garage on said property), using an RV storage facility may be good idea. Basically, you drive your rig to the facility or lot, pay for the space monthly, and leave it there until you want to use it again.What Should You Get?
Optimally, your rental space should be in a convenient location that you can easily get in and out, in a safe neighborhood, and close enough that you can regularly visit. Generally, you have two storage options: closed and open storage.
Closed Storage: This type of facility has a lot going for it. It features enclosed individual storage units that are lockable from the outside. This ensures that your camper is protected from UV rays, weather, and theft. They even offer climate controlled spaces, which is beneficial especially in areas that experience extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Merely, choose the smallest storage unit that's large enough for your motorhome. Unfortunately, closed units are typically quite expensive compared to the other options.
Open Storage: An open storage lot leaves your RV much more vulnerable than a closed unit, however, it is nearly always less expensive. If cost is a concern, use due diligence to ensure its security.
Visit the lot before committing to it. Examine the fencing and gates for sturdiness and impenetrability. Check that surveillance cameras cover all storage spaces, especially where your RV may be parked. Inquire about staff and security measures. The facility should have regular, posted hours during which time clients can enter the premises via a gate accessed by code that is operable only during those hours. When open, it is staffed with well-vetted, bonded employees. After hours, it should be monitored by a security patrol, 24-hour recorded surveillance with motion sensors, and perhaps even trained guard dogs to ensure the safety of your belongings.
Related Read: RV Security: Keeping You and Your Possessions Safe
How to Pick a Storage FacilityAlthough leaving your motorhome on the street leaves it open to burglary and vandalism, some storage areas aren't much better. Even in reputable lots, anyone with a code can enter the place. Make sure to take precautions. Lock all doors and windows; add a good deadbolt to your entry door and in the tongue of anything towable.
Verify the reputation of the facility with the Better Business Bureau. They should have a good record without reports of break-ins, burglary, or vandalism. You could also check their references; ask for the contact information of two long-term clients—at least a full year. Then follow up with them.
In Conclusion
A motorhome or travel trailer is an investment, and you want to protect it as such. With so many RV storage facilities around, you're sure to find one in your area that fits your needs, as well as your wallet. It's better to be safe than sorry!
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Author: Carrie Todd
