Safely And Wisely Pulling Double-Duty When Storing Belongings In A Car Placed In Storage
Placing a car in storage while leaving a state for several months does not always mean the car is locked up indoors. Those looking to save money on car storage may opt to park the vehicle in an exterior parking space located on the storage lot. A little extra money may be saved here by storing personal belongings in the car itself instead of renting a separate storage unit for a small amount of personal belongings. Doing so can be a good idea, provided a few additional security and belongings-preservation precautions are taken.
Rely Solely on the Trunk
Only place belongings in the trunk. Storing things on the seats inside the car is not a great idea because anyone passing by the car can look inside and realize there are things of value present. Placing a tarp over the car would help hide things, but there is no guarantee the tarp is going to remain in place. Relying on the commonly excellent security systems of a storage facility is not enough. Placing belongings in plain sight means would-be thieves are always going to have their attention on the car. A one-minute lapse in security could lead to a break-in. If belongings are in the trunk, no one will know the items are even there.
Securely Package and Protect All Belongings
Avoid simply putting belongings inside the trunk without any additional protections. The trunk should provide a barrier to keep moisture out, but unnoticed corrosion or imperfections may exist. Place all belongings in suitcases, boxes, or duffel bags and securely fit them into the trunk. Once everything is in the trunk, lay a plastic cover over the items. Doing so presents a solid layer or protection against moisture. Even covering things with plastic trash bags may be workable, although a plastic paint tarp would be better and more durable.
Avoid Storing Hazardous Things
Even though the trunk may be reliable, the weather could be anything but. An unexpected heatwave might roll in for several days and cause outside temperatures to hit well into the 90's. The sealed, poorly-ventilated trunk may experience temperatures over 100. Anything considered hazardous, such as products bearing "contents under pressure" and "keep away from excess heat" must be removed from the trunk. Otherwise, a serious safety risk is going to be present.
Double-Check with Management
Last, always double-check with the car storage facility's policy on what may be kept in the vehicle. Also, see if the additional insurance can be purchased from the storage facility to cover any potential losses.
For more information on car storage, contact a facility such as Stor-King.