Vehicle Storage Unit Size Guide: Cars, RVs, and Boats

M ost cars fit in a 10x20 storage unit (200 sq ft), RVs require 10x30 to 12x45 units (300 to 540 sq ft), and boats need 10x20 to 12x35 units depending on trailer length. The right size depends on your vehicle's exact dimensions plus 2 to 3 feet of clearance on each side for door access and maneuvering.

How to Measure Your Vehicle for Storage

Accurate measurements prevent costly mistakes. According to the RV Storage Depot sizing guide , the most common error is measuring only the vehicle body while forgetting mirrors, hitches, and accessories. These additions can add 1 to 4 feet to your total length.

Measure your vehicle's full length from front bumper to rear bumper, including any trailer hitch. For boats, measure from bow to motor. Record the width including side mirrors, which typically add 6 to 12 inches per side. Height matters for enclosed units; include any roof racks, antennas, or boat covers.

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) reports that 73% of vehicle storage issues stem from inadequate clearance calculations. Add a minimum of 24 inches to your length measurement and 36 inches to your width for comfortable access. This buffer allows you to open doors, walk around the vehicle, and maneuver during parking.

Car Storage Unit Sizes: Compact to Full-Size

Cars represent the most straightforward vehicle storage category. The average sedan measures 15 to 17 feet long and 6 to 6.5 feet wide. SUVs and trucks range from 16 to 20 feet long with widths of 6.5 to 7 feet. These dimensions determine your minimum unit requirements.

For residents in Delta, Montrose, and surrounding Western Slope communities, our Highway 50 storage location offers 9x30 drive-up units with dual side access, ideal for trucks and larger vehicles that need extra maneuvering room.

RV Storage Sizes by Class

Recreational vehicles vary dramatically in size, from 13-foot teardrop trailers to 45-foot Class A motorhomes. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) categorizes RVs into distinct classes, each with specific storage requirements. Understanding your RV's class helps identify the correct unit size immediately.

Class A motorhomes, the largest RV category, measure 26 to 45 feet long and 8 to 8.5 feet wide. These luxury coaches require 12x40 to 12x45 storage units, typically costing $300 to $600 monthly depending on location. Class B campervans (18 to 24 feet) fit comfortably in 10x25 units, while Class C motorhomes (20 to 33 feet) need 10x30 to 12x35 spaces.

According to Apple Mini Storage's vehicle guide , slide-outs on modern RVs can extend 3 to 4 feet beyond the base width when deployed. While you store RVs with slide-outs retracted, consider whether you need access to the interior during storage. If so, add 4 feet to your width calculation.

Boat Storage Sizes: From Kayaks to Cabin Cruisers

Boat storage calculations must include the trailer, which adds 2 to 4 feet to the vessel's length. The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) recommends measuring from the trailer hitch to the outboard motor's furthest point. This total length determines your minimum storage requirement.

Small boats under 16 feet, including fishing boats, jon boats, and personal watercraft, fit in 10x15 to 10x20 units. Medium boats (17 to 24 feet) require 10x25 to 10x30 spaces. Large boats (25 to 35 feet) need 10x35 to 12x40 units. The National Marine Manufacturers Association reports that 68% of boat owners underestimate storage needs by not accounting for beam width (the boat's widest point).

Residents near Blue Mesa Reservoir, Ridgway Reservoir, and other Western Slope waterways can use our Palmer Street storage facility for convenient off-season boat storage. The 10x30 units with dual side access accommodate most recreational boats up to 24 feet.

Drive-Up vs. Enclosed Vehicle Storage

Drive-up storage units offer ground-level access that eliminates ramps and elevators. According to U-Haul's vehicle storage guide , 89% of vehicle owners prefer drive-up units for easier loading and reduced risk of damage during parking. The wide door openings (typically 9 to 12 feet) provide clearance for mirrors and accessories.

Enclosed storage protects vehicles from weather, UV damage, and debris. This matters significantly in Western Colorado, where intense sun exposure can fade paint and crack dashboards within 6 to 12 months. Enclosed units also deter theft and vandalism, with the Self Storage Association reporting 94% fewer vehicle break-ins compared to open-air parking.

Open-air or uncovered storage costs 40% to 60% less than enclosed options but exposes vehicles to hail, snow, and temperature extremes. For classic cars, high-value boats, and RVs with exterior graphics, enclosed storage provides essential protection that justifies the higher cost.

Vehicle Storage Preparation Checklist

Proper preparation extends vehicle life and prevents costly repairs after storage. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety recommends a comprehensive checklist before any storage period exceeding 30 days. Following these steps protects your investment regardless of storage duration.

For Cars and Trucks:

• Fill the gas tank to 90% capacity and add fuel stabilizer (prevents condensation and fuel degradation)
• Change oil and filter (old oil contains contaminants that corrode engine components)
• Inflate tires to maximum recommended PSI (prevents flat spots during extended storage)
• Disconnect battery or use a battery maintainer (trickle charger)
• Place moisture absorbers inside the cabin (silica gel packets or DampRid)
• Cover with a breathable car cover (avoid plastic, which traps moisture)

For RVs and Motorhomes:

• Drain and winterize water systems if storing below 32 degrees Fahrenheit
• Empty holding tanks completely (black and gray water)
• Remove all food items and perishables
• Open cabinet doors and drawers for air circulation
• Cover tires with UV-protective covers
• Check roof seals and apply sealant to any cracks

For Boats:

• Flush engine with fresh water (especially after saltwater use)
• Fog the engine with storage oil
• Drain all water from bilge, livewells, and ballast tanks
• Remove drain plugs and store in a visible location
• Disconnect battery and store on a maintainer
• Apply vinyl protectant to seats and covers

Storage Unit Features That Matter for Vehicles

Not all storage units accommodate vehicles equally. The International Self Storage Association identifies five critical features that separate adequate vehicle storage from excellent vehicle storage. Evaluating these factors prevents damage and simplifies access.

Door Width and Height: Standard storage unit doors measure 8 feet wide, but vehicle storage requires 9 to 12 feet minimum. Height clearance of 10 to 12 feet accommodates lifted trucks, RVs with AC units, and boats on tall trailers. Our storage unit size guide details exact door dimensions for each unit type.

Drive Aisle Width: Narrow aisles make maneuvering large vehicles difficult or impossible. Look for facilities with 25 to 35 foot drive aisles. This width allows backing in trailers and making wide turns with RVs. Facilities with pull-through access eliminate backing entirely.

Ground Surface: Paved, level surfaces prevent trailer damage and make parking easier. Gravel lots can puncture tires and shift under heavy vehicles. Concrete or asphalt surfaces also reduce dust accumulation on stored vehicles.

Security Features: Vehicle storage demands robust security. Look for perimeter fencing, gated access with individual codes, security cameras, and bright LED lighting. Delta Self Storage provides 24-hour access with secure gate codes and comprehensive lighting at both Delta, CO locations.

Cost Factors for Vehicle Storage

Vehicle storage pricing varies based on unit size, location, and features. According to SpareFoot market data, enclosed vehicle storage typically ranges $150 to $400 monthly nationwide. Rates in Western Colorado typically run 15% to 25% below major metropolitan areas, making Delta County an affordable option for Montrose, Telluride, and Grand Junction residents.

Size represents the primary cost driver. A 10x20 unit (suitable for most cars) typically costs $100 to $200 monthly, while a 12x40 unit (needed for large RVs) generally runs $250 to $500. Location within the facility also affects pricing; units near the entrance command 10% to 15% premiums for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Storage Sizes

Can you put cars in storage units?

Yes, most self-storage facilities accept cars in appropriately sized units. Standard cars fit in 10x20 units, which provide 200 square feet of space. Ensure the facility allows vehicle storage, as some locations restrict it. Drive-up units with ground-level access work best for vehicles, eliminating the need for ramps or elevators.

What size storage unit fits a full-size truck?

Full-size trucks like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and RAM 1500 require 10x25 to 10x30 units. Extended cab and crew cab models with 6.5-foot beds measure 19 to 21 feet long. Add 3 to 4 feet for door clearance and maneuvering space. A 10x30 unit (300 square feet) accommodates most full-size trucks comfortably.

How big of a storage unit do I need for a boat?

Boat storage size depends on total length including the trailer. A 16-foot fishing boat on a trailer measures approximately 20 feet total, fitting a 10x20 unit. A 24-foot bowrider on a trailer reaches 28 to 30 feet, requiring a 10x30 or 10x35 unit. Always measure from trailer hitch to motor for accurate sizing.

What is the difference between storage unit sizes?

Storage units are measured in feet (width x length). A 10x20 unit provides 200 square feet; a 10x30 provides 300 square feet. For vehicles, length matters most since width rarely exceeds 8 feet with mirrors. Choose a unit 3 to 5 feet longer than your vehicle for adequate maneuvering room. Check our frequently asked questions for additional sizing guidance.

Can I store my RV at a regular storage facility?

Many regular storage facilities accommodate RVs in their largest units. Class B campervans fit standard 10x25 units, while Class C motorhomes need 10x30 to 12x35 spaces. Class A motorhomes require specialized facilities with 12x40+ units. Call ahead to verify ceiling height (12+ feet recommended) and door width (10+ feet minimum).

Is covered or uncovered storage better for vehicles?

Covered (enclosed) storage provides superior protection from UV damage, weather, and theft. Uncovered storage costs 40% to 60% less but exposes vehicles to sun, hail, and temperature extremes. For vehicles valued over $15,000 or classic cars, enclosed storage prevents damage that exceeds the cost difference within 1 to 2 years.

Choosing the Right Storage for Your Vehicle

Selecting vehicle storage involves balancing size, features, and budget. Start by measuring your vehicle accurately, including all accessories and the trailer if applicable. Add 2 to 3 feet to each dimension for access clearance. Compare this total to available unit sizes.

Consider your access needs. If you retrieve your vehicle frequently, prioritize convenient location and 24-hour access. For long-term seasonal storage, focus on security features and weather protection. Month-to-month rentals provide flexibility without long-term commitments, allowing you to adjust as needs change.

Delta Self Storage serves vehicle owners throughout Delta County, Montrose County, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss, Paonia, and the broader Western Slope region. Our two Delta, CO storage locations offer drive-up units with dual side access, 24-hour availability, and no deposit required. Browse available units online and complete your rental in 60 seconds.