Sometimes a vehicle simply needs to be stored somewhere safe. You might be travelling overseas, relocating for work, renovating your home or living somewhere with limited parking. For collectors, a vehicle may also need protection when it is not being used regularly.
In situations like these, car storage offers a practical solution. Instead of leaving a vehicle parked on the street or exposed to the weather, storage facilities provide secure spaces designed to keep vehicles protected when they are not in use.
If you are researching how much a storage unit for a car costs, the answer depends on the type of storage you choose and how long you plan to store the vehicle.
Why Do People Use Car Storage?
Many vehicle owners only investigate car storage when their normal parking arrangements change.
However, during renovation projects, for example, garages may become temporary workspaces or storage areas for building materials, leaving little room for vehicles.
Car storage also helps when you’re:
- Travelling overseas for an extended period
- Needing temporary work relocations or military postings
- In an apartment with limited parking
- Storing classic or collector vehicles
- Keeping a second car safe when it is not used regularly
Types of Car Storage Available in Australia
Vehicle storage facilities generally offer several types of storage depending on how much protection the car requires.
Indoor Vehicle Storage
Indoor car storage offers the highest level of protection. Vehicles are stored inside enclosed spaces that shield them from weather, sunlight and dust. This type of storage is often chosen for:
- Classic or collector cars
- Luxury vehicles
- Long-term vehicle storage
- Cars that require maximum protection
Because vehicles are stored in fully enclosed units, indoor storage is usually the most secure option.
Undercover Storage or Carports
Some facilities offer sheltered spaces that sit under a roof structure. These spaces work similarly to a carport, which protects vehicles from rain and direct sun while remaining open on the sides.
Garages and carports both serve the purpose of protecting vehicles, although garages provide full enclosure while carports offer partial cover and airflow.
Undercover storage is often a good middle ground for car owners who want protection from weather without paying for a fully enclosed unit.
Outdoor Vehicle Storage
Outdoor vehicle storage is typically the most affordable option. Vehicles are parked in designated spaces within a secure storage facility.
While cars remain exposed to weather conditions, facilities still provide security measures such as gated access and surveillance. Outdoor storage is used for:
- Short-term vehicle storage
- Larger vehicles
- Budget-friendly storage solutions
How Much is a Storage Unit For a Car?
One of the most common questions people ask is how much a storage unit for a car costs. According to the Essential Services Commission report, storage fees in 2025-26 in Melbourne are around $30.90 per day if the car is under cover, or $20.90 per day if the car is in a locked yard.
Pricing varies depending on the facility, location and type of storage available, but as a general guide across Australia:
- Outdoor vehicle storage: approximately $100 – $250 per month
- Undercover storage: approximately $150 – $350 per month
- Indoor enclosed storage: approximately $250 – $600+ per month
Facilities with additional security features, such as controlled access, alarms and surveillance systems, may sit at the higher end of the price range.
Preparing Your Car for Storage
Before placing a vehicle into storage, a few simple steps can help keep it in good condition while it is not being used.
Cleaning the car inside and out is a good starting point. Removing dirt and debris helps prevent damage to paintwork or interior surfaces while the vehicle remains stationary.
It is also helpful to check basic vehicle maintenance items before storage. This may include topping up fluids, checking tyre pressure and removing any personal items from inside the car.
For longer storage periods, some owners disconnect the battery and use a breathable car cover to reduce dust build-up.
Taking these steps helps ensure the vehicle will be ready to drive again when it comes out of storage.
Insurance Considerations for Stored Vehicles
Even when a vehicle is stored inside a secure facility, insurance remains important.
Many owners keep comprehensive insurance active while their vehicle is stored. This protects the car against potential damage, theft or unexpected events.
Storage providers may also offer additional storage insurance options for items kept within storage facilities.
For a more detailed explanation, you can read our guide on Storage Insurance in Australia: What It Covers & When You Need It.
H2: Secure Your Car with Rent a Space
Rent a Space offers a variety of car storage options with convenient drive-up access, security alarms and CCTV monitoring across many of our facilities.
Once you’ve chosen the right storage space for your car, boat, caravan or motorcycle, our team can reserve the unit and confirm the price for you. You can then move in at a time that suits your schedule, only paying the first month’s rent on your move-in day. If you also have other belongings to store, our free truck and driver move-in service can help make the process easier.
When you move into your unit, you lock it and keep the key. You’ll also receive a personal security code that allows access to your storage space 365 days a year between 6am and 9pm. All units are billed month-to-month, giving you the flexibility to change your storage space if your needs change. With two weeks’ notice, any unused rent will be refunded so you only pay for the time you use.
Get a Quote Today
If you have been researching how much a storage unit for a car costs, the right option will depend on your vehicle, how long you plan to store it and the level of protection you want.
With individually alarmed units, CCTV and convenient access hours, your vehicle is protected until you need it again.
Looking for short-term parking storage, long-term parking storage, or even boat storage, our team can help you find suitable storage solutions.
Contact us at Rent a Space today to discuss your car storage needs or request an instant quote.
As vehicle storage is not available at every location, it is best to call our team on 8758 0000 so we can help you find the closest facility that offers car storage. We also offer StoreProtect, which is extended liability protection for your greatest assets.