5 Ways to Store Vehicles When Going on Deployment
Military life comes with plenty of logistical challenges. Between preparing family, managing finances, and completing pre-deployment requirements, figuring out where to leave your personal vehicle can easily fall to the bottom of the checklist. Leaving a vehicle unattended for several months without a plan can lead to unexpected expenses, maintenance problems, or costly damage.
Military personnel have several options for keeping vehicles safe while away from home. The right choice depends on budget, deployment length, location, and whether someone will be available to maintain the vehicle. Here are storage options worth considering:
Home Garage
Storing vehicles in a home garage is often the simplest and most economical solution. An enclosed garage provides protection from sunlight, rain, snow, and other environmental conditions. It also allows a trusted family member or friend to access the vehicle for maintenance when necessary.
Apartment Garage or Carport
Apartment complexes with dedicated garages or covered parking can provide convenient storage and may involve additional rental costs. An enclosed garage generally offers better weather protection than an open carport, particularly in regions with extreme temperatures or severe weather. Before committing, check with the property manager about long-term parking restrictions.
Military Installation Storage
Some military installations offer designated vehicle storage areas for deploying service members. These facilities offer lower costs than commercial storage companies and benefit from controlled installation access, but space may be limited. Contact the installation's transportation office, deployment readiness office, or other designated storage program administrator well before your departure.
Outdoor Commercial Vehicle Storage
Some commercial storage facilities offer outdoor parking spaces for personally owned vehicles. These facilities may feature electronic gates, perimeter fencing, and surveillance cameras and are usually flexible and accessible. Some also offer military discounts.
Indoor Commercial Vehicle Storage
Indoor storage offers better protection against environmental damage than outdoor parking. Depending on the facility, additional amenities may include climate control, battery maintenance, and specialized vehicle care.
Monthly rent for vehicle storage is only one part of the equation. Before leaving a vehicle in storage, consider these additional expenses that may affect the overall budget:
Insurance Coverage - Reduced-use or storage-related coverage may be available. Do not cancel coverage without confirming lender requirements, registration rules, and protection against theft or damage.
Battery Maintenance - Vehicle batteries can discharge while a car sits unused for extended periods. Depending on the vehicle and storage location, a manufacturer-approved battery maintainer or other recommended storage procedure may help prevent problems.
Tires and Mechanical Components - Long periods of inactivity can affect tire condition, battery health, fluids, and other mechanical systems. Consult the owner's manual for long-term storage recommendations. Some vehicles require specific procedures before being parked for several months.
Transportation and Access - Commercial facilities may require transportation arrangements after dropping off your vehicle and again when retrieving it. Also consider whether someone will need access to the vehicle and whether the storage agreement permits that access.
Additional Facility Charges - Ask about administrative fees, required insurance, security deposits, rate increases, and early termination policies. A low advertised monthly rate does not always represent the total cost.
There is no single best vehicle storage solution for everyone. The key is to plan before departure.
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