Looking for a vehicle storage option for your classic car? Depending on what type of car you have and where you live, there are a variety of ways to store your vehicle. Check out this guide to the best storage options for classic cars!
Indoor Classic Car Storage Options
Inside a Car Shed
Photo via @bswtimber
Find a spot at home where you can set up a car shed for your classic car! By storing your vehicle in a car shed, you can free up space in your garage or driveway and give your car a place of its own. A car shed also provides a space to work on your car while keeping it safe from the elements.
Pros
- Protects your car from the elements
- Can be set up next to your home or in your backyard
- Saves space in a regular garage
- Can be locked up to provide secure storage for your car
Cons
- Could be expensive to construct
- Requires maintenance of the structure
- May need approval from HOA or the city to add
Before You Store
- Make sure the shed has insulation and is waterproof to protect your car
- Purchase a lock or latch
- Put the shed in a good location
In a Secure Car Trailer
Photo via @the_car_hotel
An enclosed car trailer is a versatile storage option for your vehicle. Your classic car will be protected from the elements inside a trailer, and you’ll get a lot of use from the trailer if you’re often on the go and want to easily transport your classic car to car shows!
Pros
- Protects your car from the elements
- Could store more than one vehicle, depending on the size of the trailer
- Traveling with your classic car is easier with a trailer
- Saves space in a regular garage
- Can be locked up to provide secure storage for your car
Cons
- Expensive to buy and maintain
- Some HOAs could restrict trailers from being parked at home
- Trailers and the vehicle(s) inside can be exposed to theft
Before You Store
- Buy a tow lock and padlock for your car trailer to prevent theft
- Remove the battery before storing long-term
- Winterize the car, if necessary
Inside Your Home Garage
Photo via @dinocontin_classic
Park your classic car inside your garage at home for a secure auto storage option! Not only is storing in your garage convenient and cost-free, but it also keeps your vehicle out of the elements. And the best part is that you easily can take your classic car out whenever the weather’s nice!
Pros
- Protects your car from the elements
- Provides easy access to your car
- Storing your car at home doesn’t come with additional costs
- Your car is secure in your garage
Cons
- Takes up space and can limit how many vehicles can be stored in your garage
- Could collect dirt and dust or be exposed to pests if not properly covered
- Could get damaged by other vehicles pulling in and out of the garage
Before You Store
- Use a car cover to protect your car
- Fill up your car with a full tank of gas
- Check the tire pressure and add air, if necessary
In a Classic Car Storage Facility
Photo via @wergs_automotive
Consider renting a space for your vehicle at a facility specifically designed for storing classic cars. These auto storage facilities typically control their environments to maintain proper air quality, waterproofing, and weather sealing that help protect classic cars in long-term storage.
Pros
- Protects your car from the elements
- Provides air cooling and/or heating
- More advanced security features
- Good air quality to help protect your car
Cons
- This kind of facility might not be available in your area
- Can be an expensive option for storage
- Might have restricted access to your car
- Could have restrictions on what type of car you can store there
Before You Store
- You will need to have proof of insurance and registration for your car
- Change out the car’s oil, fill up the gas tank, and remove the battery
- Wash, wax, then cover your vehicle before storing
In a Storage Unit at a Self Storage Facility
Photo via @elitestor_st.rose
If you’re unable to store your classic car at home, you can always keep your vehicle in a storage unit at a self storage facility. This option provides drive-up access and a space to park your vehicle inside a garage-like structure. Keeping your classic car inside a drive-up storage unit is ideal for keeping your vehicle safe.
Pros
- Protects your car from the elements
- More advanced security features
- Self storage facilities that offer vehicle storage are easier to find
Cons
- More expensive than outdoor storage at a self storage facility
- Access hours may be restricted
Before You Store
- You will need to have proof of insurance and registration for your car
- Change out the car’s oil, fill up the gas tank, and remove the battery
- Check the tire pressure and add air, if necessary
WHAT VEHICLE STORAGE UNIT SIZE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Outdoor Classic Car Storage Options
In a Home Driveway
Photo via @huseyinerturk
It may be an obvious choice, but you can always store your classic car in your home driveway to keep an eye on it. This option helps save you from storage fees and provides easy access to your vehicle.
Pros
- Allows you to keep an eye on your vehicle
- Keeps your car easily accessible
- Good for quick car maintenance
- No storage fees
Cons
- Takes up space in your driveway
- You will have to move around your car when you use your driveway
- Exposes your vehicle to the elements, pests, and potential theft
Before You Store
- Get a weatherproof cover to help protect your car
- Make sure your car is locked when it’s not in use
In a Space Under a Car Port
Photo via @classicridesaz
If you don’t have a garage and don’t want to take up a lot of space in a driveway, you could add a car port. These act as an extension of your home, providing some coverage for vehicles stored at home.
Pros
- Easy to build off of your home
- Provides some protection from the elements
- Keeps your car easily accessible
Cons
- May need approval from HOA or the city to add
- Doesn’t provide protection from extreme temperatures and pests
- Your vehicle can be exposed to theft
Before You Store
- Lock the vehicle
- Use a car cover to protect your car
- Fill up your car with a full tank of gas
- Check the tire pressure and add air, if necessary
In Outdoor Car Storage at a Self Storage Facility
Photo via @paddock_car_storage
This car storage option is great if don’t have enough space at home and live in an area with a mild climate. Renting outdoor storage is also more affordable than indoor or covered car storage at a self storage facility.
Pros
- More advanced security features
- Self storage facilities that offer vehicle storage are easier to find
- Some facilities may even offer covered outdoor storage
- Cheaper than indoor storage at a self storage facility
Cons
- Exposes your vehicle to the elements and pests
- Access hours may be restricted
Before You Store
- Find a storage facility with good security measures in place
- Get a weatherproof cover to help protect your car
- You will need to have proof of insurance and registration for your car
- Change out the car’s oil, fill up the gas tank, and remove the battery
- Check the tire pressure and add air, if necessary
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Need vehicle storage for a classic car? Extra Space Storage has secure storage facilities across the nation that offer outdoor, covered, and indoor storage solutions. Find car storage near you!
