Choosing the right storage size for your car is an important decision that ensures your vehicle remains safe and secure.
Whether you’re storing a classic car, a second vehicle, or just need extra space, knowing the appropriate storage size can save you time, money, and hassle.
This article will guide you through the key considerations and provide a comparison table to help you decide the best storage solution for your car.
Factors To Consider
Before diving into specific car storage sizes, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the size you’ll need:
- Car Dimensions: Different vehicles have varying lengths, widths, and heights. Measure your car’s dimensions accurately to determine the minimum storage size required. Remember to measure the car with mirrors included and consider any roof racks or accessories that add to its height.
- Additional Space: Consider whether you need extra space for manoeuvring, maintenance, or storing accessories like tyres, tools, or covers. A little extra room can make a significant difference in accessibility and convenience.
- Storage Duration: Long-term storage may require more space for better ventilation and ease of access, while short-term storage might not necessitate as much room. For example, if you plan to frequently access your vehicle or perform maintenance tasks, additional space is beneficial.
- Security and Climate Control: Some storage facilities offer enhanced security features and climate control, which might influence your choice if you’re storing a valuable or delicate vehicle. Climate-controlled units help prevent rust, mould, and other environmental damage.
- Budget: Larger storage units typically cost more, so balance your space needs with your budget. Evaluate the cost against the value of your vehicle and the importance of its condition during storage.
Common Car Storage Sizes
Understanding the most common storage unit sizes and their suitability for different types of vehicles can help you make an informed decision. Below are detailed descriptions of each size, along with examples of vehicles that typically fit these dimensions.
1. 10 x 15 Feet (3 x 4.5 Metres)
This size is suitable for smaller vehicles such as compact cars, motorcycles, or scooters. It provides just enough room for a single small car with minimal extra space. If you have a small vehicle and limited additional items to store, this size can be a cost-effective choice.
Ideal for:
- Compact cars (e.g., Mini Cooper, Fiat 500)
- Motorcycles: A few motorcycles or scooters can fit comfortably.
- Small recreational vehicles: ATV or jet ski.
Benefits:
- Lower cost.
- Suitable for small spaces with limited manoeuvring.
Considerations:
- Limited additional storage space.
- May be too tight for larger cars or additional equipment.
2. 10 x 20 Feet (3 x 6 Metres)
This is a popular size for standard cars and offers ample space for most sedans, small trucks, and SUVs. It also allows for some additional storage around the vehicle. This size strikes a balance between cost and space, providing enough room for a typical family car and some extra items.
Ideal for:
- Standard sedans (e.g., Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic)
- Small trucks (e.g., Ford Ranger)
- Small SUVs (e.g., Nissan Qashqai)
Benefits:
- Sufficient space for most average-sized vehicles.
- Additional room for storage or minor maintenance.
Considerations:
- Might still be tight for larger SUVs or vehicles with accessories like bike racks.
3. 10 x 25 Feet (3 x 7.5 Metres)
Providing extra length, this size is great for larger sedans, most SUVs, and smaller vans. The additional space can be used for storing other items or allowing easier access around the vehicle. This size is ideal if you need more room for manoeuvring or storing additional belongings.
Ideal for:
- Larger sedans (e.g., BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class)
- Medium SUVs (e.g., Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V)
- Small vans (e.g., Volkswagen Transporter)
Benefits:
- More space for larger vehicles and storage.
- Easier access around the vehicle for maintenance and retrieval of stored items.
Considerations:
- Higher cost compared to smaller units.
4. 10 x 30 Feet (3 x 9 Metres)
This size accommodates larger vehicles such as full-sized trucks, large SUVs, and vans. It offers substantial extra room for storing accessories and performing minor maintenance tasks. If you own a larger vehicle and need extra space for equipment or tools, this size is ideal.
Ideal for:
- Full-sized trucks (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado)
- Large SUVs (e.g., Range Rover, Audi Q7)
- Vans (e.g., Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit)
Benefits:
- Ample space for large vehicles and additional items.
- Suitable for vehicle enthusiasts who may need space for tools and parts.
Considerations:
- Higher cost due to increased size.
- Ensure the storage facility can accommodate the height and width of larger vehicles.
5. 12 x 30 Feet (3.6 x 9 Metres)
For those with oversized vehicles, such as extended cab trucks, large vans, or certain recreational vehicles, this size offers the necessary space and additional clearance. It is the go-to option for those needing significant space for both vehicle and equipment storage.
Ideal for:
- Extended cab trucks
- Large vans with extended length
- Recreational vehicles (RVs)
Benefits:
- Largest standard size, suitable for the biggest vehicles.
- Plenty of extra space for storage and accessibility.
Considerations:
- Premium cost due to size.
- Not all storage facilities may offer this size, requiring more research to find availability.
Storage Size Comparison Table
To help visualise the differences between storage unit sizes, the table below summarises the key details and suitable vehicle types for each size.
| Storage Size | Dimensions (Feet) | Dimensions (Metres) | Suitable For | Benefits | Considerations |
| Small | 10 x 15 | 3 x 4.5 | Compact cars, motorcycles, small recreational vehicles | Lower cost, suitable for small spaces | Limited additional storage space, may be too tight for larger cars |
| Medium | 10 x 20 | 3 x 6 | Standard sedans, small trucks, small SUVs | Sufficient space for most average-sized vehicles, additional room for storage | Might be tight for larger SUVs or vehicles with accessories |
| Medium-Large | 10 x 25 | 3 x 7.5 | Larger sedans, medium SUVs, small vans | More space for larger vehicles and storage, easier access | Higher cost |
| Large | 10 x 30 | 3 x 9 | Full-sized trucks, large SUVs, vans | Ample space for large vehicles and additional items, suitable for vehicle enthusiasts | Higher cost, ensure facility can accommodate vehicle size |
| Extra Large | 12 x 30 | 3.6 x 9 | Extended cab trucks, large vans, recreational vehicles | Largest standard size, plenty of extra space | Premium cost, limited availability |
Tips For Choosing The Right Storage Size
- Measure Your Vehicle: Start by measuring your vehicle’s length, width, and height. Add a few extra feet to each dimension to ensure enough space for opening doors and accessing the vehicle. This step is crucial to avoid renting a unit that’s too small.
- Consider Future Needs: If you plan to store additional items or anticipate needing more space in the future, opt for a larger unit. It’s better to have extra space than to find out later that you need more room.
- Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the storage facility to see the units in person. This can give you a better idea of the space available and help you visualise how your vehicle will fit. It’s also an opportunity to check the facility’s security and cleanliness.
- Ask for Expert Advice: Don’t hesitate to ask the storage facility staff for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights based on their experience with other customers and help you choose the most suitable unit.
- Review Security Features: Ensure the storage unit has adequate security measures, such as CCTV, secure locks, and gated access, to protect your vehicle. Facilities with climate control are also worth considering to protect against environmental damage.
Get In Touch
Selecting the right storage size for your car ensures it remains in good condition and is easily accessible when needed. Get in touch with our team to discuss your exact requirements and we’ll provide you with the best solution.
