As a proud owner of an RV or boat, ensuring the safety and longevity of your investment is paramount. One of the crucial steps in this journey is determining the right sized storage space. To embark on this quest, you must begin with precision: accurate measurements for proper storage.
You might wonder why getting precise measurements is such a big deal. After all, eyeballing it or guessing might seem sufficient. However, here are a few compelling reasons why precise measurements are essential:
1. Storage Space Fit: Accurate measurements ensure that your vehicle fits comfortably in the storage space you choose. Too small of a space could lead to potential damage, while an overly spacious area might be unnecessarily costly.
2. Maneuverability: Knowing the exact dimensions of your vehicle allows you to select a storage space that allows for smooth maneuverability. Retrieving your vehicle from a restricted space can make for a stressful start instead of a fun one. After a long trip, you don't want to find yourself in a tight spot when it's time to store your RV, trailer, or boat.
3. Maintenance: Precise measurements also factor in the space needed for maintenance and repairs. Ideally, you want to be able to access all parts of your vehicle without constraints.
4. Cost-Efficiency: Opting for a storage space that precisely fits your vehicle can save you money in the long run. You won't be paying for unnecessary extra space.
To get started, you'll need a few essential tools:
1. Tape Measure: A good-quality tape measure is your best friend in this process. Make sure it's long enough to handle the full length of your vehicle.
2. Pen and Paper: Keep a notepad and pen handy to jot down your measurements.
Now, let's break down the measuring process into a few key steps:
Length
Begin with measuring the length of your RV, trailer, or boat. Start from the frontmost point to the rearmost point, including hitches etc. For trailers, this typically means from the tip of the tongue to the farthest rear point. For boats, don’t forget to include any outboard motors. Be sure to record this measurement accurately.
Width
Next, measure the width of your vehicle. This should be the widest point from one side to the other, including mirrors. For RVs, if you also count any slide-outs or extended features in your measurement this will allow for extending in your storage space. For boats, measure at the widest part, which is usually around the beam, not just the trailer width.
Height
Determine the height of your vehicle if you are choosing covered storage. Measure from the ground to the highest point, which could be an antenna, air conditioning unit, or any other protruding feature.
It's crucial to consider any attachments or accessories that may extend beyond the standard dimensions. For RVs, this could include after market side mirrors or bike racks. For trailers, account for any cargo or gear attached to the exterior. For boats, take note of outboard motors, antennas, or anything else that sticks out.
Once you've measured the length, width, and height of your vehicle, it's time to think about clearance. To ensure comfortable access and maneuverability, add at least a few feet of clearance around your vehicle. This will reduce stress on days when you bring your vehicle in/out of storage. Choose a storage space that provides ample clearance for you to move around, perform maintenance, and protect your vehicle from accidental dings.
Measuring your RV, trailer, or boat accurately is the foundation of finding the right storage space. It's a critical step that ensures the safety, convenience, and cost-effectiveness of storing your cherished recreational vehicle.
Senyah RV & Boat Storage offers a variety of storage size spaces from mini to extra large. After you have your measurements, get in touch and we will be happy to help you select the right sized space for your RV or boat. Happy measuring!