Can You Store a Car in a Storage Unit? What to Know Before You Rent
Nov 2, 2026 / Public Storage
Yes, you can store a car in an enclosed storage unit approved for vehicle storage. Public Storage offers vehicle storage at select locations for cars that are operable, registered, and insured. Before renting, confirm that the specific unit permits vehicles and that its interior dimensions, door opening, and approach accommodate your car.
Maybe you’re heading out of town for a few months. Maybe a move has left you with two cars and one parking space. Or perhaps your garage needs to serve another purpose during a renovation.
Whatever brings you to car storage, finding a space involves more than checking whether the vehicle is shorter than the unit. You need an approved storage option with enough room to drive in, park, and get yourself back out.
Here’s what to check before you reserve.
What Kind of Storage Unit Can You Use for a Car?
Look for an enclosed, ground-level unit specifically approved for vehicle storage. These spaces offer direct vehicle access and an individual enclosed parking area.
An indoor unit reached through a hallway or elevator is not the same thing as an enclosed vehicle unit. Likewise, a drive-up unit isn’t automatically approved for cars simply because you can pull a vehicle up to its door.
When comparing listings, confirm:
- The specific unit allows car storage.
- Your car meets the facility’s vehicle requirements.
- The entrance and usable interior accommodate its dimensions.
- There is enough room to maneuver into and out of the unit.
Public Storage’s 20-foot vehicle storage guide provides a starting point for exploring enclosed car storage. Available sizes and storage types vary by location.
What Size Storage Unit Do You Need for a Car?
A 10×20 storage unit is a common starting point for many standard passenger cars, provided the unit is approved for vehicle storage. Larger vehicles may need a longer space.
Treat the listed size as a starting point for comparison. A vehicle’s actual dimensions and the unit’s entrance determine whether the arrangement will work.
| Unit size | What to consider |
| 10×15 | May accommodate certain compact cars, but length and clearance can be limiting. Confirm measurements before considering this option. |
| 10×20 | A common option to evaluate for standard sedans and some small or midsize SUVs. Check the door opening and room to exit the car. |
| 10×25 or 10×30 | May offer the additional length needed for larger SUVs, pickups, or vans, where available and approved for vehicle storage. |
Use the Public Storage size guide to compare options, then confirm the dimensions of the actual space you plan to rent.
“Compact,” “midsize,” and “full-size” are useful shopping categories. They are not measurements.
How Do You Check Whether Your Car Will Fit?
Compare your vehicle’s dimensions with the unit’s usable space, including its entry clearance.
Use manufacturer specifications for the correct model, year, and configuration, and account for accessories you’ve added. Check whether the listed width includes mirrors.
| Measurement | What to check |
| Overall length | Space inside the unit with the storage door fully closed |
| Width, including mirrors | Clearance through the doorway and alongside the parked car |
| Height, including accessories | Door-opening height and any lower overhead obstructions |
| Driver’s door opening | Enough room to exit and re-enter the parked vehicle |
| Trunk or liftgate | Clearance if you expect to open it while the car is stored |
| Approach to the unit | Turning room and alignment with the entrance |
Ask to review the space before moving the car in. A unit may have enough floor area while its doorway or approach makes it unsuitable for your vehicle.
Keep people and belongings clear of the storage door’s travel. Compare measurements with the door stationary rather than using a moving door to test clearance.
The car fitting inside is only part of the plan. You should also be able to get out without introducing yourself to the passenger seat.
What Are the Requirements for Storing a Car?
Public Storage requires stored cars to be operable, registered, and insured. The vehicle must remain in working condition throughout the rental period.
Before renting, ask the property team which documents you need to provide and review the rental agreement’s vehicle-storage terms. Confirm any requirements related to vehicle condition, permitted use, and keeping documentation current.
Don’t assume an undrivable project car qualifies because it can be delivered to the property. Explain its condition before making arrangements.
Public Storage’s guide to what you can and cannot store includes vehicle eligibility guidance. Confirm the requirements for your selected space before move-in.
How Should You Prepare a Car for Storage?
Start with a clean, dry vehicle and a plan suited to how long it will be parked.
Remove food, drinks, trash, and personal belongings. Check tire pressure against the vehicle’s tire-information label or owner’s manual. Follow manufacturer guidance for the battery, fluids, fuel system, and extended periods without driving.
Preparation can differ by vehicle, particularly for electric and hybrid models. Ask a qualified service professional about anything the owner’s manual doesn’t resolve.
Before bringing the car to the facility:
- Complete any needed maintenance.
- Review the facility’s vehicle and fuel requirements.
- Confirm access hours and move-in arrangements.
- Ask about electrical access before planning to use a battery-maintenance device.
- Close the windows, sunroof, trunk, and doors before leaving the parked vehicle.
For a more detailed checklist, read Public Storage’s guide to storing a car for several months.
Should You Choose an Enclosed Unit or a Parking Space?
An enclosed unit is one option. Depending on the location, you may also find covered or uncovered vehicle parking.
Enclosed vehicle storage places the car inside an individual unit. Check the doorway, interior clearance, and vehicle approval.
Covered parking provides an overhead covering with open sides. Confirm the space’s height and dimensions.
Uncovered parking provides a designated outdoor space. Consider weather exposure and whether the space accommodates your vehicle.
Compare the available options based on your car’s dimensions, storage timeline, budget, and access needs. Check the selected facility’s gate hours before planning drop-offs or pickups; office hours and customer access hours may differ.
Find a Storage Space That Fits Your Car
Before reserving, have your vehicle’s measurements ready and confirm three things: the space permits your car, the entrance and interior fit it, and you understand the rental requirements.
Explore Public Storage vehicle storage options to compare enclosed units and parking spaces at select locations.
A few measurements and a conversation with the property team can help you choose a workable space before you arrive with the car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Store a Car in Any Drive-Up Storage Unit?
No. Drive-up access does not automatically mean vehicle storage is permitted. Confirm that the specific unit is approved for your car before renting.
Will a Car Fit in a 10×20 Storage Unit?
Many standard passenger cars may fit in a 10×20 unit, but fit depends on the vehicle and the actual space. Compare length, width, height, doorway clearance, and the room needed to open the driver’s door.
Can You Store a Car That Doesn’t Run?
Public Storage requires vehicles to remain operable throughout the rental period. An undrivable car does not meet that requirement. Discuss the vehicle’s condition with the property team before arranging storage.
Are Enclosed Car Storage Units Climate Controlled?
Do not assume an enclosed vehicle unit includes climate control. Confirm the specific unit’s features with the facility before renting.
Can You Access Your Car While It Is in Storage?
You can access your vehicle during the selected facility’s applicable customer access hours. Confirm the schedule and entry procedures before reserving, especially if you expect frequent visits.
