Van storage facility: how to choose and prep

Parking a van for weeks or months raises familiar questions. Will it stay secure. Will the battery hold. Is climate control worth the cost. The right van storage facility answers these concerns with predictable access, thoughtful protection, and a space that fits the height and length of your vehicle without compromise. Use the following guide to evaluate options before you sign a contract.

What to look for in a van storage facility

Start with security. A top tier site combines perimeter fencing, bright lighting, and a network of cameras that actually cover aisles and entry points rather than a few corners. Ask about recording retention and whether staff physically patrols the property. Controlled gate access and unique codes help track entries and discourage casual tailgating. Space fit comes next. Measure total length with any rear ladder or tire carrier, and verify ceiling height and door opening dimensions for indoor bays. A van that fits the building but not the roll up door is a common oversight. For tall roof models, confirm sprinkler clearance and any piping above the parking line. If choosing outdoor storage, seek wide aisles that allow easy back in parking without curbing wheels or scraping mirrors. Indoor versus outdoor is a tradeoff of cost, cleanliness, and climate. Indoor storage reduces sun exposure, hail risk, and potential vandalism. Climate controlled storage adds another layer by moderating temperature swings that can stress batteries, seals, finishes, and soft goods. In milder regions, covered spaces may strike a good balance, shielding the roof from UV and rain while keeping rates manageable.

Security essentials that actually matter

• Camera coverage across entrances, exits, and aisles with recorded playback
• Unique access codes or fobs and clear logs of activity
• Good lighting that removes dark pockets around vehicles
• Fencing without obvious gaps near drainage or back lots
• On site staff presence during business hours and posted emergency contacts

Costs, contracts, and insurance in plain terms

Pricing varies by region, indoor versus outdoor, and add ons like climate control or trickle power. Expect indoor climate controlled rates to sit at the top, followed by indoor non climate, covered outdoor, then open air spaces. Month to month terms offer flexibility while multi month agreements can unlock discounts. Read the contract line by line. Note late fees, access hour limits, and policies around maintenance on site. Some facilities disallow battery tenders or portable heaters. Others provide dedicated outlets or monitored power for an added fee. Confirm the rules before you rely on a setup you cannot use. Insurance is a two part conversation. The facility’s policy typically covers the property itself, not individual vehicles. Your van should be insured for comprehensive loss even while parked. Ask your carrier about storage periods, declared value, and any alarm or device discounts. Keep photos of the interior and exterior before move in, plus a quick inventory of removable gear.

Pricing factors beyond square footage

• Ceiling height and door size premiums for tall vans
• Climate control zones and energy costs for stabilized temps
• Power access for tenders or dehumidifiers when permitted
• Location convenience, especially near airports or interstates
• Security investments that reduce risk and may lower claims

Prepping your van for long term storage

Preparation preserves value and reduces downtime when you pull the van back out. Clean thoroughly to remove salts, dust, and organic debris that trap moisture. Wax painted panels for a sacrificial layer, and treat rubber seals with a conditioner suitable for automotive weatherstripping. Inside, remove perishables and vacuum upholstery to deter pests. Crack windows slightly if the facility allows and use desiccant packs to control humidity in damp climates. Battery care depends on access to power. If the site permits a tender, choose a smart charger matched to your battery chemistry. If no power is available, ensure all parasitic draws are disabled and the battery is charged fully before storage. For vans with house batteries and solar, shut down loads and consider a maintenance charge mode if a safe, approved shore power option exists. Tire health matters. Inflate to the upper range of the recommended pressure, park on clean surfaces, and use tire cradles for long durations to reduce flat spotting. If feasible, roll the van a few inches monthly to redistribute weight. For fluids, keep the fuel tank near full to reduce condensation, stabilize gasoline if storage exceeds a month, and verify coolant and washer fluids are appropriate for expected temperatures.

Quick storage prep checklist

• Wash, dry, and apply paint protection and seal care
• Empty perishables and add moisture control inside
• Charge and maintain batteries per chemistry and rules
• Set tire pressure, consider cradles, move periodically if allowed
• Cover roof accessories as needed and lock external boxes
• Photograph condition and secure documents off the vehicle

Access policies affect your routine. Some facilities offer 24 hour gate entry, while others limit visits to staffed times. Verify how often you plan to check the van and whether routine maintenance is allowed on site. Clear rules make ownership predictable and reduce miscommunications when you need a quick visit before a trip.

If you store gear in the van, choose lockable interior cabinets and remove high value items. Use discrete covers on windows and avoid leaving chargers or electronics in plain sight. Consider a discreet tracker that pings during motion to provide peace of mind if the van ever leaves its stall unexpectedly.

One more fit consideration is maneuvering room. A wide turning radius and straight approaches ease parking for longer wheelbase vans. Walk the lot before signing to ensure light poles, bollards, and curb cuts will not force awkward angles during busy hours.

How OZK Customs can support a storage friendly rig

When you want a van that sleeps well, travels hard, and stores cleanly between trips, build choices make the difference. We design power systems with thoughtful isolation, labeled shutoffs, and battery management that simplifies off season care. We can specify finishes and seal treatments that shrug off humidity and dust while remaining easy to maintain. Explore our recreational vans to see the range of platforms we build for adventure and simple ownership. For a tailored approach that matches how you travel and store, browse our custom van builds. If you prefer a finance friendly starting point, view mainstream van platforms that we can upfit for your needs. Our team is based in Fayetteville Arkansas, with an easy fly in pickup experience and onsite orientation. We can walk you through storage prep at handoff so your van is ready for the lot and ready for the next road day.

Final takeaway Choose a van storage facility with real security, the right space fit, access that matches your schedule, and policies that support battery and moisture control. Prep the van before drop off and document condition. With thoughtful planning and a build that respects storage realities, you will spend less time tinkering in the lot and more time chasing the next horizon.

Questions about preparing your van for storage or building one that stores easily Reach out. We can help you plan the right power, finishes, and protection so storage becomes a simple pause rather than a headache.