Recreational Vans
Selecting a van friendly storage unit starts with clear measurements. Record overall length, width at mirrors, and true height from ground to the highest point such as racks, solar, or an air conditioner. Many standard units have roll up doors around seven feet tall, which is too short for high roof vans. Look for facilities advertising tall doors in the 10 to 14 foot range and interior clear heights that exceed door height by a safe margin.
Drive up access matters. Pull through lanes or wide turn radii reduce the risk of curb rash and bumper taps. Aisle widths of 24 to 30 feet make maneuvering far easier for long wheelbase vans. Ground level access prevents scraping at ramps, and minimal threshold lips at doors help avoid contact with steps or low running gear.
Security should be layered. Favor gated access with unique codes per user, LED lighting across aisles, cameras with recorded footage, and individual unit alarms where available. Ask about on site staffing hours and how the facility handles tailgating at gates. Check that fire suppression is present in enclosed buildings, and that ventilation or make up air meets local codes.
Climate control can protect interiors and electronics. While a van is built for weather, long storage in hot and humid regions can stress adhesives, panels, and batteries. Temperature moderated buildings reduce condensation and help preserve cabinetry, seals, and any gear stored inside. If climate control is not available, consider desiccant packs and breathable covers.
Not all 10 by 20 units are equal. Door width and height, plus interior column placement, controls real usability. A 10 by 25 or 10 by 30 often fits a long wheelbase model with room to walk around the rear doors. Some markets offer 12 by 30 or wider bays that make mirror clearance less stressful. Always bring a tape measure and verify the posted dimensions on site.
Access hours influence convenience. If you leave early or arrive late for weekend trips, 24 hour access matters. Ask how the facility handles holiday access and outages. Some sites close elevators or interior corridors overnight. For exterior drive up units, confirm snow removal or storm cleanup policies that keep aisles usable.
Indoor units provide the most protection and can include climate control, but they cost more and often have tighter maneuvering. Covered parking offers roof protection while keeping sides open to the elements. Open air parking is the most economical and easiest for large vans but exposes paint and seals to weather. Your choice depends on local climate, budget, and how frequently you access the van.
Look for cylinder locks or disc lock compatible latches that resist bolt cutters. Ask if units have individual door alarms tied to your code. Inquire about camera retention time, security patrols, and lighting levels after dark. Good sightlines and bright aisles deter opportunistic theft.
Facilities often require current registration and proof of insurance. Many prohibit fuel leaks, long term idling, or battery charging without supervision. Some restrict maintenance on site. If you plan to trickle charge, ask about dedicated outlets. Most locations forbid living in units and prohibit storage of propane cylinders indoors. Clarify whether lithium batteries must be disconnected and how they define hazardous materials.
Pricing varies by region, door height, and building type. Tall door indoor units command a premium, as do climate controlled spaces. Long term contracts can secure a better rate, but read the clauses regarding rate increases and notice periods. Some facilities charge admin fees, lock fees, or require insurance through their partner if you cannot show your own coverage.
Preparation extends the life of your vehicle while stored. Clean the van thoroughly, remove perishables, and crack windows slightly if allowed for air exchange. Inflate tires to the upper end of recommended pressure and consider tire cradles for very long stays. Use a battery maintainer if the facility provides power or disconnect the negative terminal to slow parasitic draw. Lubricate door seals and treat weatherstripping so doors do not stick after months of heat.
Moisture control keeps interiors fresh. Place desiccant packs or a small passive dehumidifier inside. Use a breathable cover rather than plastic tarps to prevent trapped humidity. If parking outdoors, choose a cover shaped for a high roof van to reduce flapping in wind. For interior storage, confirm sprinklers and detectors are clear of any cover.
Create a small checklist with your van’s length, width at mirrors, and true overall height including racks, antennas, and fans. Take this to tours and compare against measured door openings, not just brochure numbers. A quick smartphone level and tape measure can save repeat visits.
Walk the route from gate to unit. Look for tight S turns, blind corners, or steep aprons. Practice backing into a bay during off peak hours to see if the path works for your wheelbase. If it feels tight during a tour, it will feel tighter at night or in rain.
Keep copies of your registration, insurance, and facility agreement in a folder. Photograph your odometer and exterior panels when you move in. If your insurer offers storage options like comprehensive only coverage, weigh the savings against risk and facility security.
The right storage choice begins with a van that fits common door heights and aisle widths. When cabinets, roof gear, and suspension are designed with clearance in mind, you have more options and fewer headaches on move in day. If you plan to store your van between trips, discuss final ride height, ladder placement, and antenna profiles during the design phase so the finished rig glides into typical tall door units without drama.
OZK Customs builds around real world constraints like storage access, ferry limits, and garage clearances. During planning we account for door heights and turning paths common to facilities, so racks, lighting, and vents do not push you past practical limits. When you are ready to dream up your next rig, explore our recreational vans, look into a custom van build, or review our mainstream vans options that align with typical storage dimensions.
We are based in Fayetteville Arkansas and design for real travel and real storage. Tell us your local facility specs and we will plan rack height, tire size, and accessories to fit your constraints. That way you spend less time measuring doors and more time rolling out for the next trip.
If your van lives in a unit between adventures, build it to fit the space from day one. Share your storage measurements and access needs, and we will create a layout with smart height, protected gear, and secure power options. Submit your details and we will map a path from design to delivery that fits both the open road and a safe, van friendly storage unit.
Ready to store smarter and travel farther? Tell us about your van and your storage needs. OZK Customs will design a build that fits typical storage constraints and your real travel life, so you never fight a low door or tight aisle again. Start your custom plan now.
Ready to store smarter and travel farther? Tell us about your van and your storage needs. OZK Customs will design a build that fits typical storage constraints and your real travel life, so you never fight a low door or tight aisle again. Start your custom plan now.
ADDRESS:
6159 E Huntsville Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72701
PHONE:
(479) 326-9200
EMAIL:
info@ozkvans.com