What Is Drive Up Self Storage
When looking for self storage you may have come across drive up self storage. As the name suggests you can probably tell that this is the type of self storage that you can drive your car up to but is it convenient, does it have any advantages over traditional storage and which one should you choose?
In this article we will let you know everything there is to know about drive up storage so you can decide if its the best option for you or if you should opt for indoor storage.
Drive Up Storage Units
Drive up self storage units are popular because they are practical and offer fast access. You can pull your vehicle right up to the unit door which makes moving furniture, tools or multiple boxes quick and simple. No long walks or lifts required. They are often larger in size than indoor units too but this isn’t always the case.
These units are especially useful for people storing bulky items or business equipment that needs to be collected often.
How Drive Up Storage Differs From Indoor Storage
Most indoor storage units are located inside a secure building. They are protected from rain, wind and sudden weather changes. The downside is that you might have a short walk or need to use a corridor or lift to reach your unit.
Drive up storage units sit on the ground level with wide driveways. You can back your vehicle right up to the door which saves time and avoids the hassle of pushing heavy loads through hallways.
This simple access makes drive up storage ideal for quick drop offs or pick ups however indoor storage still offers better environmental protection for valuable or fragile belongings.
Who Benefits Most From Drive Up Storage
If convenience and speed are high priorities, drive up storage is a great match.
Homeowners who are redecorating or moving house can quickly load and unload furniture or appliances without making multiple trips through a building.
Tradespeople also love drive up storage because vans, tools and materials can be stored and accessed in minutes. At the end of a long workday, being able to park directly beside the unit keeps things efficient.
Families tackling a declutter or seasonal swap find drive up access helpful too. Bikes, sports gear and bulky boxes can move in and out easily.
Drive Up Storage vs Indoor Storage
Both indoor storage and drive up storage have their benefits but they serve different needs.
Indoor storage units offer the advantage of stable conditions. Because they are inside a controlled building, they protect sensitive items such as antiques, electronics, artwork and anything affected by humidity or temperature changes. This makes indoor storage a smarter choice for long term protection and high value goods. Your packing materials will also last longer in a climate controlled building.
Drive up storage wins on convenience when access speed matters most. The time saved by parking next to your unit makes it stress free to move heavy belongings.
Both storage types are kept secure with surveillance and restricted access so your belongings stay safe no matter your choice.
Benefits of Drive Up Self Storage
The top benefit is ease of access. Being able to park right outside the door makes moving belongings less physically demanding. It is great for business storage and for those who often need to retrieve items on the go.
Modern drive up sites feature secure construction, strong doors, CCTV and coded entry which add a high level of protection.
What You Can Store in Drive Up Units
Drive up self storage units can hold a wide variety of household and business items that do not require temperature control. Common items include:
Furniture and office equipment
Spare appliances
Gardening and DIY tools
Seasonal gear like kayaks, camping equipment and bicycles
Archived stock or promotional materials for businesses
If items are weather sensitive or easily damaged by heat or cold then indoor storage will give better peace of mind.
Things To Consider Before Renting
Drive up storage is ideal for convenience however it is not always the best option for delicate possessions. Electronics, fine art and antiques benefit from indoor units where temperatures remain more stable.
Consider how often you need access, the type of items you are storing and how long those items will stay in storage. If long term security and protection are important, indoor storage is often the superior choice. If you want fast loading and unloading, drive up storage is incredibly useful.
