The My Storage Box Guide to RV Storage Costs

RVing is a huge industry in the U.S. Right now it is a multi-billion dollar industry. According to Consumer Affairs, RV ownership has increased by a staggering 62% since 2001, and as of 2021, over 11 million households own RVs of some kind. And I believe this! Whenever I’m driving around (with my RV), I notice them everywhere. It’s not just in small towns or on acreage; people in suburbs and cities own them. Just drive around and you will see them in backyards, and even driveways or on the curb. 

And it’s just getting started. Over the next five years, the market size is projected to grow another eight percent. But here’s a question: where are all of these RVs going to go? As in, where are they actually going to be parked? A lot of towns and cities have rules about this, as do HOAs, neighborhood associations, and so on. 

Understanding RV Storage Options

Storage space is a big deal because the industry is growing so much, so fast. Regardless of type, whether a motorhome or an RV trailer, RVs take up a lot of space.

Even if a town or city allows an RV to be parked there, it doesn’t mean that you’ll want to park it there. Most people would rather not take up their entire residential driveway to park a 35’ long travel trailer, and it will definitely take up the whole drive. 

RV storage costs vary greatly depending on location, with prices ranging from $45 to $400 per month. Factors that affect cost include proximity to town, covered vs. uncovered spaces, and electrical hookups. First and foremost, electrical hookups are not absolutely necessary for your RV. There are lots of great options now for running solar trickle chargers to keep your battery fresh and healthy, which is really the only reason to keep electricity around and on when you park your camper (unless you are me and keep it plugged in to use the fridge for extra food storage 🤣).

Expect to pay more for covered spaces with electricity, and less for open spaces without hookups. In my opinion, having a covering is a lot more important than access to electricity, especially once you have it winterized and parked. Built up snow can cause real problems for RV roofs, so covered space is a big deal. 

Some facilities may have waiting lists, so make sure you call ahead before the end of the season to get a spot. 

What is the Average Monthly RV Storage Cost Nationwide in the USA?

Now, take this section with a grain of salt. For instance, the middle of the country where we are located will cost less than places with higher demand and higher costs of living. California is the RV capital of the U.S., but costs there are much higher than here in general. 

• The average cost of storing an RV at an indoor self-storage unit is around $150 per month.
• Outdoor RV storage typically costs less, around $100 per month.
• The size of the RV determines the cost of storage, with larger RVs requiring more space and costing more.
• RV owners can choose from indoor or outdoor storage options, depending on their needs and budget.

Obviously, the costs go up substantially if you go with covered storage, and even more if you want electrical hookups. 

Factors Affecting RV Storage Costs

There are basically four factors that overwhelmingly affect the cost of RV storage across the board: location, type of storage (i.e., covered, open, etc.), amenities, and RV size and class. 

• Location: RV storage prices are significantly influenced by your geographic location, with urban areas tend to have higher storage costs than rural or suburban locations.
• Type of Storage: The type of storage you choose also plays a role, with outdoor storage being the most affordable, followed by covered storage, and indoor storage being the most expensive.
• Amenities: Some storage facilities offer extra amenities such as 24/7 security, climate control, and electrical hookups, which continue to drive up costs.
• RV Size/Class: The size and class of your RV will impact storage costs, with larger RVs typically incurring higher storage fees.

Location and Size

Monthly storage rates can differ widely from state to state, and they often vary by population and demand in a specific area. RV lots that are located right by popular lakes are almost always packed, and they are pricey. Basic supply and demand. 

Also, you will probably find that RV storage is more expensive in heavily populated areas, and urban areas with limited parking. These are especially prevalent and pricey near upper-end neighborhoods that usually have restrictions on parking RVs in the neighborhood. 

RVs can vary from 8 feet for the shortest pop-up trailers to 45 feet for a large Class A motorhome. Most places don’t offer an 8 foot long spot, so if this is you, you might be paying for a lot of unused space. 

Types of RV Storage

There are a couple of types of storage usually offered for RV storage. There are a few indoor, climate controlled options but generally people with the means for those just build a shop. 

Outdoor Storage

This is the most budget-friendly option, where your RV is parked in an open, uncovered area. Most people do this just because it is practical and inexpensive. RVs are already expensive, so unless you have a truly high-end rig, this is just fine. 

• Outdoor RV storage is typically less expensive than other types of storage and reasonably practical for some types of large RVs.
• The average monthly cost of storing your RV outdoors ranges between $30 and $100 each month, depending on your location, the type of storage, and the RV size.

Covered Storage:

In this type of storage, your RV is protected from direct sunlight and rain by a roof or canopy. The cost to keep your RV in a covered storage facility will cost considerably more, but again, this is dependent on where you live and how close your storage facility is to urban areas or to popular camping areas.

Additional Fees and Services

There are always a few additional fees to bear in mind when you set up RV storage. 

• Security Deposit: Some facilities require a security deposit that will be returned if no damage occurs.
• Access Fees: Frequent access may result in extra charges, with some facilities offering unlimited access and others charging per visit. We don’t do this with our RV storage; you can get in whenever you like. 
• Insurance: Many facilities now require RV owners to maintain insurance, which can add to the overall cost of storage. Granted, you should already have insurance on your RV to begin with, but make sure it satisfies their demands. 

Tips for Saving on RV Storage

Here are a few of our best tips to save on RV storage. 

• Long-Term Contracts: Many facilities offer discounts for longer-term contracts, making it a good idea to sign up for a year instead of month-to-month storage. 
• Off-Peak Seasons: If possible, store your RV during the off-peak season when storage rates may be lower.
• Bundling Services: Some RV storage facilities offer additional services like maintenance or repairs, which can lead to cost savings when bundled with storage.
• Ask About Discounts: Inquire about discounts for veterans, seniors, or members of RV clubs and organizations.
• Finally, if you already have self-storage somewhere, see if they also offer RV parking. My Storage Box provides both services, so if you have a storage unit with us, make sure to check on outdoor parking, too. 

Questions to Ask a Storage Facility

There are some questions that you should always ask when you go to set up RV storage. We suggest these to make sure you are getting the best deal and what you actually need. 

• Is it a month-to-month lease?
• Can I cancel at any time without penalties or additional fees?
• Are there any current promotions or sales?
• Do you have wide drive lanes?
• What is the door height of the storage units?
• What are the access hours, and is access unlimited?
• Does the facility have gated entry and unique pin code access?

Make sure to ask the important questions before you get too far in the process; you don’t want to underbuy or overbuy storage for your RV. 

Choosing the Right RV Storage Facility

So, how do you know that you have the right storage facility when there are so many? There are a few things to think about. For one, do you mind towing or driving your RV, or would you rather store it close by and just haul it to the campsite for camping? Consider the location, type of storage, and amenities offered by the facility.

Also, check the facility’s security measures and access hours. RVs are expensive and can be an attractive score for thieves, so you need to make sure it is a secure facility. 

Ask about any promotions or discounts available, and read reviews and ask for referrals from other RV owners. If the place is cheap but hard to get to or is poorly run, it won’t be worth the time savings or cost savings. 

Finally, if you are in the Ponca City area and need both a storage unit and are wondering about RV storage facilities in the area, give us a call at (580) 300-3006! We offer both, making it a most convenient purchase for you. In fact, you can store all of your camping essentials in a storage unit with your RV nearby and pack it all up when you’re ready to hit the road!

There Are a Few Things Not to Put In Storage. Here’s Why!

Storage units can feel like the perfect solution when you’re short on space at home or juggling a move, especially when you’re in a rush to get things sorted. But before you dive headfirst into organizing your stuff, let’s hit pause and talk about what not to put in a storage unit.

Why? Because the last thing you want to want is to go through the trouble of packing and organizing, only to have the storage provider say, ‘Sorry, can’t keep that here,’ leaving you to scramble for plan B. Frustrating, right? 

Let’s skip that chaos altogether. We’ve got your back with a detailed guide to help you move safely and securely. It covers everything from prohibited items to sensitive items you’ll want to double-check before storing. Some of these things might seem like common sense, but others? Total head-scratchers. That’s why a handy checklist can save you from surprises.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into what you can’t store in most storage units. 

Prohibited Items in Storage Facilities

When it comes to storage units, there’s no such thing as “anything goes.” Storage companies have strict rules to protect their facilities, staff, and your belongings, so it’s crucial to know what’s off-limits before you start packing.

Hazardous Materials

Anything that can explode, ignite, or ooze toxic substances is an absolute no-go in storage units. These items aren’t just dangerous, they’re a liability for the entire storage facility. Here are some common hazardous materials you’ll need to leave behind:

• Gasoline, propane, oil, and grease: Highly flammable and risky in enclosed spaces;
• Chemicals, cleaners, and paint: These can leak or emit harmful fumes;
• Fireworks and explosives: Not the kind of surprise anyone wants in a storage facility;
• Moonshine and its brewing chemicals: Yes, even your bootlegging ambitions are banned.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific list of prohibited materials with your storage facility. Better safe than sorry!

Perishable Items

While a storage unit might seem like a perfect place to stash away extra food—especially those canned foods you’ve been hoarding just in case—think twice before you start piling up your pantry. Canned foods, though less perishable, can still attract insects and rodents, leading to unwanted damage. 

Fresh food or pet food is even worse. It can rot, creating nasty odors that will quickly spread across the entire storage facility.

Even seemingly harmless items, like scented candles, can cause issues. Over time, in an enclosed space, they can melt in extreme temperatures or attract pests, turning your storage unit into a sticky, smelly mess.

So, it’s best to leave perishable goods at home for the safety and comfort of everyone.

Illegal and Stolen Goods

This one might seem obvious but it’s worth saying: storage units are not hiding spots for stolen property or illegal items. For starters, the first reason why is that self-storage facilities are typically well-monitored with cameras, access logs, and on-site staff. Also, if something seems suspicious, employees won’t hesitate to call the police. Plus, any evidence of illegal activity—like video footage—can easily make it into the hands of law enforcement.

In short, avoid storing anything that isn’t allowed. It’s definitely not worth the hassle! Storage units are here to make your life easier, not add extra stress. 

By knowing what you can and cannot store in a self-storage unit, you’ll save yourself from unnecessary headaches and keep your move running smoothly.

Animals and Pets

It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to emphasize that pets should never be stored in a unit. Not only is it inhumane and unsafe, but it also violates storage facility policies. 

Animals require proper care, attention, and a proper living environment—none of which are provided by a storage unit. 

If you need a safe space for your pets while moving, consider pet sitting or leaving them with a trusted friend or family member. Their well-being should always be a top priority!

Plants

Plants may seem like an innocent thing to store, but they pose several risks. The lack of light, poor climate control, and confined space make it impossible for plants to thrive. In fact, they can quickly deteriorate, attract pests or mold, which is bad news for everything else in storage.

So, instead of stashing your beloved greenery in a closed storage space, try a friend’s house to keep them healthy. Your plants will thank you later!

Restricted Items in Self Storage Units

Not everything is black-and-white when it comes to what you can keep in a self-storage unit. Some items fall into the restricted category, meaning they might be allowed under certain conditions often dependent on local laws, facility policies, and specific requirements. 

Let’s break it down and so you know exactly what to expect. 

Firearms and Ammunition

Firearms, ammunition, and other weaponry are a unique category when it comes to self-storage and require careful consideration. Here’s what you need to know:

• Local and facility rules matter – While some states, like Oklahoma, are more permissive regarding firearm storage, it’s crucial to check both local regulations and the policies of your storage facility. Here’s our detailed guide for storing firearms.
• Preparation is key – If firearms are allowed, they must be stored responsibly. This includes cleaning, using trigger locks, and controlling moisture to prevent rust. 
• Separate ammunition storage – Always store ammunition in a locked, hard case away from firearms to maximize safety.

Items such as flame throwers, hand grenades, land mines, mortal shells, bazookas, or nuclear bombs are strictly prohibited for obvious reasons. 

With proper preparation and a little extra care, you can store firearms and ammunition safely and responsibly. 

As mentioned, here in Oklahoma, the rules for storing firearms are pretty relaxed. So, whether you have a growing collection or just a few firearms you’d rather not keep in the house, feel free to store them in our storage facility in Ponca City!

Just remember, when in doubt, ask questions, follow the rules, and never take shortcuts with safety. 

Vehicles and Equipment

When it comes to storing vehicles and equipment, there are a few rules to keep in mind. 

Only fully registered, insured, and operable vehicles are allowed in self-storage units. Whether it’s a boat, RV, trailer, motorcycle, car, or truck, you’ll need to provide proof of registration and a valid driver’s license. 

Each type of vehicle may have its own specific requirements, so it’s always a good idea to check with your storage facility before making arrangements. 

Read our guide about storing motorcycles if you need help to prepare it for storage.

For example, RVs and boats may require extra storage space, or certain vehicles might need to be stored in specific conditions to ensure safety. 

Just be sure your vehicle is in good working order, properly insured, and documented, and you’ll be all set for storage!

Sensitive and Valuable Items

When it comes to storing electronics, antiques and priceless treasures, a little extra care is needed to ensure they remain in good conditions. These items aren’t your typical “pack and stack” fare, and they may require more attention to detail than other belongings.

Electronics and Antiques

Electronics and antiques can be quite sensitive to temperature fluctuations, humidity, and general wear and tear. If you need to store those items, a climate controlled storage unit is often your best bet. 

These units maintain a consistent environment to protect your electronics from overheating or freezing and to keep your antiques from degrading over time. 

Priceless and Irreplaceable Items

For truly priceless or irreplaceable items, consider keeping them close by rather than storing them in a self-storage unit. Even the most secure facilities can carry risks when it comes to high-value items and there may be limited liability for the storage company. If it’s something that can’t be replaced, such as family heirlooms or valuable artwork, a safe deposit box or specialized storage option may offer better protection.

Storage Unit Considerations

When choosing a storage unit, it’s essential to consider both the type and size of the unit to ensure your belongings are stored safely and securely.

Two most important factors to think about are whether you need a climate-controlled unit and how much space you’ll need. 

Climate-Controlled Storage Units

If you’re storing sensitive items like electronics, antiques, or furniture, climate controlled storage units are your best option. These units regulate temperature and humidity, offering protection against the harmful effects of extreme heat, cold, or moisture.

Whether it’s protecting books from warping, keeping electronics in working order, or ensuring your furniture stays in top shape, climate-controlled units are perfect for those things you want to protect from the elements.

Storage Unit Size and Type

The size and type of storage unit you choose can directly impact how much you can store and how it should be packed. For larger items, like a boat or a vehicle, you’ll need ample space, while smaller items might only need a compact item. It’s important to match the right unit to your needs—whether it’s a basic unit, a climate-controlled one, or a specialty space for larger items. Before committing, check with your storage facility to find the best option available.

Alternative Storage Options

If you’re looking for storage options beyond the usual climate-controlled units, there are some alternatives that may suit your needs.

• Outdoor Storage – Perfect for items that don’t require temperature control, like boats, RVs, equipment, or extra vehicles. Check with your storage company to see what options are available.
• Specialized Storage Solutions – For items like fine wine or artwork, specialized solutions are designed to keep them in optimal condition. Wine storage maintains the right temperature and humidity, while art storage offers climate control and protection from light exposure.

Whatever your storage needs, make sure to explore the options that best protect your belongings.

Final Thoughts

Storing your items safely is all about planning ahead and knowing exactly what you can and cannot keep in a storage unit. From hazardous materials to perishable foods and illegal items, it’s crucial to be mindful of the rules to avoid any unwelcome surprises down the road.

Whether you’re storing firearms, vehicles, sensitive electronics, or priceless heirlooms, each category comes with its own set of guidelines to ensure everything is protected. 

With the right knowledge and preparation, you can safely store your belongings without stress or confusion, knowing they’re in good hands. 

For secure and affordable storage, My Storage Box offers  24/7 access, video monitoring, and gated entry to ensure your items are safe. With our storage units, you’ll know your things are in a secure place, and you won’t stress about them!

Click the link below to get started, where you can reserve a unit and make monthly payments. You can also call us at (580) 300-3006. Talk to you soon!

Fall: The Ultimate Season for Moving

Well y’all, it is officially that time of the year. College football is well past the midpoint, the World Series is drawing to a close, pumpkin patches are sold out, and Thanksgiving break is right around the corner. Every year it comes as a surprise that the year is almost over, but Fall is our reminder in the Midwest that it isn’t over quite yet. 

Down here in Oklahoma, it gets hot. And it also gets cold. But Fall is a great reminder that we get a really nice reprieve from the two dominant weather patterns. And since it is so nice right now, a lot of people decide to move in these parts. Let’s take a walk through the reasons why Fall is such a great time to move. 

1. Enjoy the Ideal Fall Weather

The most obvious reason why Fall is a great time to move is the mild weather. Not too hot, not too cold, it’s just about perfect to do all kinds of things. Throw a hoodie and jeans on and you have the perfect day. 

Fall is an escape from the heat in Oklahoma, and it is a gentle reprieve before it gets cold. Sometimes it is the only tolerable season to get anything done. You can enjoy some nice Autumn weather to knock out those nagging DIY projects or repairs that you’ve been putting off because of the heat. We get it. 

It is a lot more enjoyable to paint the trim, clean out flower beds, or pressure wash your driveway when you don’t have the Amazon river flowing down your back from the 110° heat index of a typical summer day here. 

2. Escape the Peak Season and Settle in Autumn

Peak moving seasons are in the Spring, and May is the top month to move. And that makes sense. School is getting out, so it gives families the entire summer to get settled into their new digs before the start of the new school year. And let’s face it: once you have kids, most of your life revolves around sports schedules and school schedules. 

But that also means something else: you are competing with everyone else. If everyone else knows that Spring and early Summer is the peak moving season, that means they are all jockeying for the same thing. 

When everyone zigs, you zag. You can play the game differently and list your house in the off-season when it’s a lot less crowded. The reasons why most people move in the Spring and Summer keeps them from moving in the Fall, and that can play to your favor. Maybe you don’t have kids at home anymore or yet. Maybe you are moving to the same district. Whatever the case, you can outflank your competitors and list your house when others aren’t. And yes, this can impact your sale price, but it can also mean a cheaper house to buy. 

And one strategy that is not always easy but can work in your favor is selling in the peak season, putting your possessions in storage, and renting until Fall to get a better deal when you buy and move into the new house when the weather is a lot nicer. 

3. Save Big with a Budget-Friendly Fall Move

This is basically a continuation of the last point, but Fall is well outside of the peak season. But it is also still a really great time to move. The thought of moving when it is actually cold and snowy out is not a pleasant idea. 

But here’s the other thing: costs always ramp up for just about everything during peak season. Also, things like moving boxes, moving trucks, and other assorted moving supplies can be in shorter supply during peak season. 

You might just be able to get a better deal from a moving company or renting a moving truck in the off-season.  

4. Repurpose Your Moving Boxes for Spooky Decor

Halloween just passed, and you know what that means: you’ve got a closet full of skeletons. Or, of course, you could just repurpose your moving boxes for storing all that halloween stuff for next year. And not only can you repurpose those boxes for storing your spookiest decor, but a storage unit at My Storage Box is the perfect place to put that along with all of your other seasonal decorations.

And let’s face it: just how else are you going to store that 12-foot tall skeleton? It really does pose some logistical problems. Of course, if you go all out for Halloween, the odds are pretty good that you like to let it all hang out for all of the holidays, and we have all seen those Christmas displays that are just out of this world. Awesome, right? Yes. But they are also a lot of work and take up a ton of space. All those leftover moving boxes are the perfect way to box up your holiday decor and put it in the storage unit that you rented for the big move. Congrats!

5. Get Settled Just in Time for the Holidays

Nobody wants to move over the holidays. Moving in the Fall gets you settled in your new home just before the holidays, and let’s be real: after a few years, our houses just seem to attract stuff. Our houses are usually most tidy and organized right after we move into them, so go ahead and set up that tree! 

You’ve earned it. And maybe even host this year because a lot of your stuff besides the essentials is still in your storage unit.

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Check out what size of storage unit is the right size for your move!

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My Storage Box Is Ready for You!

Our storage units are the perfect option to help you sort your Halloween decor, along with all of your other holiday decor as well! But we aren’t just there for holiday gear; you can store as much or as little as you need in our storage units! 

With storage units ranging in size from 8×10, 8×20, and even full-size 8×40, you know that your household goods are in great hands with us. Our facility is fully lit and fenced. With 24/7 gate access, you can get in and out whenever you want. 

If you’re ready to move this Fall, you can check out our pricing page for availability and rent a storage unit all in one place.