6 Common Boat Storage Options for Small Spaces + Pros and Cons

Your boat is a major investment, so you need to protect it. Here are 6 common boat storage options for small spaces.

By South Rock Storage

September 1, 2022

man riding on the front of a red and white boat

When you have a boat, you need to find a storage option for it. You can store it in your backyard, but that may not be the best idea if you live in a cold climate.

You can also store it in a marina, which can get expensive. You can also keep it at a facility, which is the cheapest option. You need to ensure the facility is secure and has good insurance. This article describes the various boat storage options you have, as well as storage tips and what to look for in a storage facility in Wichita, Kansas.

In Water Boat Storage

Many people overlook the benefits of storing their boats in water when looking for boat storage options. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider a water boat storage:

Security. Storage options that are located on or near water tend to be more secure than those found on land. This is because they are more challenging for thieves to get to, and they are also easier to monitor.
Accessibility. Boat owners can easily access boats stored in water, regardless of the time of year.
Convenience. When it comes time to take your boat out for a spin, you won't have to worry about loading it onto a boat trailer and driving it to the lake or river.

Storing Your Boat in a Marina Slip

When you are looking for a place to store your boat, you may want to consider a marina slip. This is an in-water storage option that can provide many benefits. Here are some things to think about when deciding if this is the right choice for you:

Marina slips provide easy access to your boat. Simply step on board and go! You don't have to worry about getting it out of the water or loading it on a trailer.
In-water storage isn't the best way to protect your boat from the elements. Not only will your boat be exposed to the weather and elements, but keeping a boat perpetually in the water can cause deterioration and damage.
A marina wet slip offers security for your boat. You can feel confident knowing that it is safe and protected from theft or vandalism.

Dry Outdoor Boat Storage

Dry boat storage is an excellent choice if you want to keep your boat in good condition and avoid having to clean it every time you use it.

Dry outdoor storage facilities are typically fenced-in and have security cameras, which can give you peace of mind when your boat is not in use.

The downside of dry storage is that it can be less convenient than marina storage when you want to go for a ride in your boat, especially if you live in a climate where the winters are cold. You also have to factor in the cost of transportation to and from the location, which can be a hassle if you live far away. Another option is dry indoor storage, which can be more expensive, but first, let's explore common dry outdoor options.

Parking Your Boat on a Trailer at Home

Boaters often struggle with where to store their boats. Many people have garages, but they are not always large enough to hold a boat.

The best option is to find a dry outdoor storage area somewhere on your property. If you have the space on your property, boat trailer storage could be an option for you. You can park your boat on the boat trailer and store it in your backyard or other ample space.

When parking your boat on a trailer, make sure that the trailer is level. You can use wood blocks to raise the trailer's front or rear if necessary. It is also vital to ensure that the boat is tied down securely. You can use ratchet straps or ropes to do this.

If you are storing your boat on a boat lift or trailer outdoors, it is essential to cover it with a tarp or other coverings. This will protect it from the weather and from UV rays.

Outdoor Boat Storage at a Self Storage Facility

When you have a boat, there are a lot of things that you need to do in order to keep it in good condition. One of the most important is making sure that it is stored in a place where it will stay dry. If you don't have a place to store your boat at home, you may want to consider self-storage.

Self-storage facilities offer a variety of different types of storage units, including ones that are specifically designed for boats. These slots are typically located outside, which means they can accommodate a large variety of watercraft sizes. Many self-storage facilities, like South Rock Storage, have security cameras and gates, which can help keep your boat safe from theft or damage. We also have a helpful guide to help prepare your boat for storage with us.

If you're looking for a storage unit at a self-storage location that can house your boat, be sure to check out the options available at self-storage facilities in your area. If you're in Witchita, KS, look no further than South Rock Storage!

Dry Indoor Boat Storage

If you are looking for an alternative to storing your boat in the water, or if you just don't have access to a body of water large enough for your boat, you may want to consider dry indoor boat storage.

This covered boat storage is an excellent option for boats that are not in use for long periods of time or if you live in a climate where leaving a boat in the water is not an option.

Benefits of dry indoor boat storage options

There are several benefits to choosing dry indoor boat storage.

Your boat will be protected from the elements. This is especially important if you live in a climate where there is snow and ice during the winter months.
Your boat will be safe from harmful UV rays, which can damage the exterior of your boat over time.
By storing your boat indoors, you can extend its life by protecting it from corrosion and rust.

Dry Stacked Storage

Dry stack storage is a unique and popular way to store boats, cars, and other large items outdoors. The name comes from how the items are stored–stacked on top of each other, utilizing the height space of the building.

While this storage method maximizes the usage of space, it is often times very costly. Boaters will usually need to give staff significant advance notice of boat usage as well so that they can use their heavy lifting equipment to extract your boat and place it in the water or on a trailer. The other disadvantage is that you will not have complete access to your craft every day and night.

Your Home Garage

The garage is often one of the most overlooked spaces in the home. It can be used for a variety of purposes, such as storage, parking, and working on projects. Regarding boat storage, a garage is an excellent option for those with the space.

There are a few things to consider when using the garage for boat storage.

Make sure that the garage is large enough to store the boat.
Check to see if there is an electrical outlet in the garage so you can power up any equipment you need to work on the boat.
Make sure that the garage is well-ventilated so that any fumes from gasoline or other chemicals will dissipate quickly.

Using it for boat storage is an excellent option if you have enough space in your garage and it meets these requirements.

Indoor Boat Storage at a Self Storage Facility

If you're like many boat enthusiasts, you probably don't want to leave your vessel outdoors where it can be damaged by the elements–especially when it comes to winter storage. That's why an increasing number of boat owners are taking advantage of a storage unit at a self-storage facility.

An indoor self-storage facility offers a variety of benefits when it comes to storing boats. For starters, they provide a dry and secure environment, which is vital for keeping your boat in good condition.

They also typically have wide aisles and ample space, so you won't have to worry about running into other boats or obstacles. Additionally, most self-storage facilities offer 24-hour access, so you can come and go as you please.

If you're looking for indoor boat storage and your boat is small enough to fit, be sure to check out the options at your local facility.

Jet Ski and Small Watercraft storage

When it comes to storing jet skis or small watercraft, you have a few different storage solutions. You can store it in your garage, you can store it in a facility, or you can store it in your backyard.

Storing in your garage is probably the easiest option, but it's not always the best option. If you don't have a lot of space in your garage, then you may not be able to fit your small watercraft inside.

Another option is to store them at a facility. Boat storage facilities offer indoor and outdoor storage options, and they usually have security cameras and alarm systems to keep your small watercraft safe. The last option is to store your small watercraft in your backyard.

Advantages of self-storage options at South Rock Storage

When it comes time to store your boat, many people don't know where to turn. Traditional storage facilities are often not equipped to handle vessels, and those that are may be too expensive or too far away.

South Rock Storage is different. We offer boat storage as one of our many self-storage options, making it easy and affordable for you to keep your boat safe and secure.

Here are some of the advantages of choosing South Rock Storage for your boat storage needs:

Our facility is conveniently located in Witchita, KS, making it easy for you to get your boat in and out when needed.
We have a wide variety of storage options to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

Best Boat Storage Options to Consider

There are various boat storage options to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. It is important to consider your needs and budget when choosing a storage option and to be sure to ask any questions you have about the facility or service. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect boat storage solution for your needs. Don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage to help you get started with your boat storage needs.

How to Organize a Storage Unit: 6 Tips to Get You Started

Renting a self storage unit? Check out these six tips to help you organize and plan ahead to make the most of the space.

Are you considering renting a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS? If so, it's essential to be organized and plan to make the most of the space. Check out these six tips for getting started. How to Organize Your Items in Self-Storage Units 1. Use shelves for boxes and other items. Using shelves is a great way to organize your boxes, books, and other items you plan to use frequently. They're also helpful for keeping the floor clear of clutter and making it easier to move throughout your storage unit. Although any shelving will technically work, we recommend sturdy shelving with a high weight limit to easily handle anything you place on it. When setting up your shelving unit, place heavy items near the bottom, fragile (or light) items at the top, and items that you frequently use on the middle shelves. Next, make sure all your boxes are labeled. Being well organized helps you remember where everything is or even helps a friend if they're getting something from your unit on your behalf! After this step, try to organize the items by category (clothing vs. tools vs. sports gear), so related items are grouped and easier to find. 2. Label everything with a list of the contents. Labeling every box you put in your unit is essential, whether it's full or empty. People often misplace items in their storage units because they cannot remember which unit they put them in. Labeling your boxes will always know where your belongings are, and you won't have to waste time searching through multiple units. Labeling is also an effective way to keep track of items after they have been moved into your home when you unpack them again after moving out of storage into your new place! It may seem overkill at first because there will only be a few things left in each box, but it just becomes second nature after a while. 3. Fold clothing and linens neatly to save on space. Folding is the easiest way to save space in a self-storage unit. To fold clothes and linens, first lay them flat on a surface so that the long edges are parallel (this will create an "L" shape). Fold the bottom third of your piece of clothing up toward where it meets at the top, then fold it in half along its length. Finally, fold both sides inward toward one another until they meet at their respective middle points (like folding in half) and place them into your storage unit together with their seams facing outwards so that any dirt or dust won't get trapped inside when you open them later on! 4. Create a list of what is in each box so that you can easily find each item. If you feel overwhelmed by the size of your storage unit, creating a list of what's in can be helpful. After all, one of the main reasons people use self-storage units is because they need extra space for their stuff! But if you don't know what's in the unit already, how will you know what else needs to go in? Here are a few tips when creating a list: Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have a box labeled "summer clothes," include a list of every item inside the box. This way, you will know precisely what is in the box and where to find it when you need it. Include the box number, what is in the box, and where it is located. Store the list with your other essential documents in a fireproof lockbox. This way, it will be protected from water damage and other disasters. Keep adding new things to your list as you move more boxes into your storage unit. If something gets lost or forgotten, you will have a comprehensive list of contents for each box to find whatever needs finding quickly! 5. Store large items like bikes and furniture against the walls. If you have larger items like bicycles or furniture, it's best to store them against the walls of your self-storage unit. This will free up space in the middle of the unit so that you can store other things, and it will also help to protect your belongings from getting damaged if someone accidentally bumps into them while walking around. To maximize space, you can also disassemble furniture before storing it in the unit. For example, take the legs off a table or the mattress and box spring off a bed frame. Just make sure to label all the pieces, so you know how to put them back together later! Another tip is to keep the legs and machinery (screws) together by tape or in a clear plastic bag so that everything is there when you go to reassemble. 6. Use a floor plan. Just like moving into an apartment or home, having a floor plan will help keep everything organized and tidy. You might want to consider making sure that everything has its place, especially if it's something large like furniture pieces or appliances (think washing machines). Consider putting the items you want to use the closest to the front and the longer-term storage items in the back. This will save time when looking for where something goes when needed again. Creating a floor plan is easy! Take a measuring tape and measure out the dimensions of your storage unit. Then, use graph paper to draw out a scale model of the space. Finally, start placing your belongings in the unit according to the floor plan. Final Thoughts If you take time to organize before you move in, then it will be easy to find what you need when you need it later. Self-storage units can be a great way to keep your belongings safe and sound while you're in between homes or even need extra space. That way, it will be accessible when you need to find something later! But before you start packing everything into boxes, it's essential to take some time to think about how you're going to organize everything. Contact South Rock Storage today to learn more about our self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas! We have a variety of sizes and amenities to choose from so that you can find the perfect unit for your needs. Give us a call or stop by our facility today!

A woman takes notes on the boxes she's packing before self storage at South Rock Storage

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Storage Tips: How to pack your belongings for Self Storage

Packing up all your belongings can be a daunting task. Here are five steps you should follow when storing your stuff in a self storage unit.

Self-storage can be an excellent option for people who need to store some extra belongings. Knowing how to pack correctly is one of those storage unit hacks you'll soon master. Here are a few storage tips to get you started. Here are 5 steps for packing your belongings for self-storage. Step 1: Sort through your belongings The first step to simplifying your life is to sort through your belongings. This can be daunting, but it's essential to take the time to go through everything you own and decide what you need and what you can donate or sell. Start by sorting your belongings into categories: clothing, furniture, electronics, etc. Then, within each category, separate the items into "must keep," "maybe keep," and "get rid of" piles. Be ruthless when sorting; if you haven't used an item in the past year, it's probably time to get rid of it. Making a list of things you need and don't will help you sort through your belongings. Once you've gone through your belongings, take the time to organize them in a way that makes the most sense to you. For instance, some like to organize their items by type (clothing, electronics, etc.), while others want to organize by how often they plan on needing the item. Step 2: Choose the right packing materials Packing for a move can be stressful. There are many options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One of the most critical decisions is what packing materials to use. The most popular packing material is bubble wrap. Bubble wrap is inexpensive and can be found at most stores. It is also effective at protecting items from damage. However, it can be bulky and takes up a lot of space. Another option is packing peanuts. Packing peanuts are also inexpensive and can be found at most stores. They are not as effective as bubble wrap at protecting items from damage, but they take up less space than bubble wrap. Another option is foam padding. Foam padding is more expensive than bubble wrap or packing peanuts, but it offers the best protection for your belongings. It is also less bulky than bubble wrap and takes up less space than packing peanuts. Cost: $4 to $15 for a roll of bubble wrap; $1 to $3 for packing peanuts; and about $8 to $12 for foam padding. Step 3: Pack for self-storage by creating a system When packing for a move, it is essential to pack your belongings systematically. This will help ensure that everything is packed securely and that you can find what you need when you unpack. Here are some tips for packing your belongings systematically: Begin by packing items you will not need until after you have moved, such as winter clothes or holiday decorations. Next, pack the items you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home, such as toiletries and bedding. Pack the large items last, such as furniture and appliances. Make sure to label each box with a description of its contents. This will make it easier to find things when you unpack. Step 4: Label your boxes and containers When it comes to packing for a move, an organizational system is key. If you take the time to label your boxes and containers, unpacking will be a breeze. Here are a few tips on how to label your boxes: Label each box with its contents. This will help you quickly find what you need when you're unpacking. Use different-colored markers or tape to distinguish between boxes that contain fragile items and those that don't. This way, you'll know which boxes to handle with caution. Label the outside of each box as well as the bottom. This way, you'll be able to tell which box is which even if they're turned upside down. Make sure all of your labels are legible and easy to read. This will make it easier to locate items you need. Step 5: Transport your belongings to the storage unit If you are in the process of moving and have a lot of belongings that need to be stored, a storage unit may be the perfect solution. Transporting all of your belongings to the storage unit can seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation, it can be done quickly and easily. Here are a few tips to help make a move go smoothly: Start by packing up the smaller items first. This will make it easier to move around larger pieces and furniture. Use sturdy boxes or bins that can hold up against being stacked. Pack each box tightly, making sure there is no extra space inside. This will help keep your belongings safe during transport. Label each box with its contents, so you know what is inside when unpacking them at the storage unit. Use a blanket or heavy-duty plastic wrap to wrap furniture and other large items that could get damaged during transport. Make sure to label the boxes, so you know what is in each one. This will help keep you from getting mixed up when unpacking at the storage unit. Final Thoughts Thank you for reading our guide on how to pack your belongings for self-storage. South Rock Storage is the place to go if you're looking for a reliable, honest, and affordable storage unit in Wichita, Kansas, for your belongings and furniture. We offer a wide selection of Wichita storage unit sizes and features, and we can help you find the right one for your needs. So call us at 316-618-8282 or fill out our online form to get started.

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FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in?

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out?

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space?

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment?

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store?

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates?

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease?

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock?

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours?

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

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6 Common Boat Storage Options for Small Spaces + Pros and Cons