RV, Boat and Vehicle Storage
RVs, boats, trailers, campers, and extra vehicles can take up a large amount of space in a driveway, garage, or yard. Parking restrictions may also limit where a recreational vehicle can stay between trips. American Self Storage offers vehicle storage at select North Carolina locations, giving customers another place to keep cars, trucks, boats, trailers, and RVs when they are not being used.
Available storage options include outdoor parking, covered spaces, and enclosed vehicle storage at participating facilities. The options and dimensions differ by location, so measure the complete vehicle before choosing a space. Include mirrors, hitches, ladders, motors, racks, spare tires, trailers, and other equipment that extends beyond the main body.
Sensitive belongings should not remain inside a parked vehicle for an extended period. Remove electronics, documents, photographs, clothing, and delicate equipment before storage. These items may be better suited for a climate-controlled storage unit.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Storage
Clean the Interior and Exterior
Wash the exterior to remove mud, road salt, insects, bird droppings, and other residue that may damage the finish over time. Vacuum the interior, wipe down surfaces, and remove anything that could create stains or odors.
Remove Food and Personal Belongings
Take out food, drinks, trash, paperwork, clothing, and other loose belongings. Food residue can attract pests, while fabrics and paper may be affected by moisture or changing temperatures.
Check Fluids and Address Leaks
Inspect the vehicle for fluid leaks before bringing it to the facility. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for oil, coolant, fuel, and other fluids, especially when the vehicle will remain parked for several months.
Prepare the Tires and Battery
Inflate each tire to the recommended pressure and check for cracks, damage, or uneven wear. Review the owner’s manual before disconnecting, removing, or maintaining the battery during storage.
Keep Important Records Accessible
Store registration, insurance documents, maintenance records, and facility paperwork somewhere outside the vehicle. Keeping these records at home or in a digital folder prevents them from being locked inside when you need them.
Measure the Complete Vehicle
Record the full length, width, and height before selecting a space. Include attached equipment and confirm that you will have enough room to enter, exit, and maneuver the vehicle safely.
Preparing Your Boat for Storage
Clean the Hull and Interior
Wash the hull to remove dirt, algae, salt, and lake residue before storage. Clean seats, compartments, flooring, coolers, and storage areas, then allow every surface to dry completely.
Remove Water and Moisture
Drain the bilge, live wells, freshwater tanks, hoses, and other systems that may hold water. Trapped moisture can create odors, mildew, corrosion, and damage during freezing weather.
Prepare the Engine and Fuel System
Follow the boat and engine manufacturers’ instructions for fuel treatment, oil changes, cooling systems, and seasonal storage. Maintenance requirements differ among inboard motors, outboard motors, personal watercraft, and other marine equipment.
Inspect the Battery and Electrical Equipment
Disconnect or maintain the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Remove portable electronics, fish finders, radios, documents, and other equipment that should not remain exposed to temperature changes.
Check the Trailer
Inspect the trailer tires, lights, hitch, safety chains, winch, and wheel bearings before storage. Make sure the boat is properly positioned and secured to the trailer before leaving it at the facility.
Use a Proper Boat Cover
Choose a fitted, breathable cover that protects the boat without trapping moisture underneath. Secure it carefully so wind and rain cannot loosen the cover or allow water to collect on top.
What Type of Storage is Right for my Vehicle?
Outdoor Parking
Outdoor parking provides a designated space for cars, trucks, trailers, boats, and RVs. It is often a practical option for vehicles designed to remain outdoors and for customers who want to clear space at home.
Outdoor spaces are uncovered, so the vehicle remains exposed to sunlight, rain, pollen, and other outdoor conditions. A fitted cover may provide additional protection when permitted by the facility.
Covered Parking
Covered parking adds a roof above the vehicle while keeping the sides open. It can reduce direct exposure to sunlight, rain, and falling debris without requiring a fully enclosed space.
Covered parking may work well for boats, campers, trailers, and recreational vehicles that need more protection than open parking provides. This option is available only at select American Self Storage locations.
Enclosed Vehicle Storage
An enclosed space provides walls, a roof, and a dedicated door around the stored vehicle. It offers greater separation from outdoor conditions and may also provide room for approved vehicle accessories.
Confirm the door height, interior dimensions, and turning clearance before renting. Enclosed vehicle storage is available at select facilities and may not accommodate every RV or boat.
Drive-Up Units for Smaller Vehicles
Some larger drive-up units may accommodate cars, motorcycles, ATVs, or other smaller vehicles. The vehicle must fit completely inside the unit without blocking the door, driveway, or neighboring spaces.
Ask the facility team about vehicle requirements before renting a standard unit. Fuel, insurance, registration, and operational rules may apply.
Use the American Self Storage size guide to review common storage dimensions, but always compare those measurements with the complete size of your vehicle.
Find Your RV, Boat or Vehicle Storage Unit at American Self Storage
American Self Storage offers outdoor parking, covered spaces, enclosed storage, and other vehicle storage options at select North Carolina facilities. The type of storage, available dimensions, and vehicles accepted vary by property, so review the current listings or contact the location before arriving.
RV, boat, or vehicle storage is available at these American Self Storage locations:
- Excess Storage - Smithfield Road
- American Storage - Clayton East
- American Storage - Geer St.
- AAA Ministorage
- American Storage - Fuquay Varina
- American Self Storage - Pittsboro East
- American Self Storage - Pittsboro West
- American Storage - Chapel Hill
- Settlers Landing Self Storage
- American Self Storage Concord
- American Storage - Sanford
- American Self Storage - Harrisburg