boat and rv storage business plan template

Boat and RV Storage Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Boat and RV Storage Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their boat and RV storage businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a boat and RV storage business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

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What is a Boat and RV Storage Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your RV and boat storage facility as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Boat and RV Storage Facility

If you’re looking to start an RV and boat business or grow your existing business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your storage business in order to improve your chances of success. Your business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Boat and RV Storage Facilities

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a storage facility are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal assets and bank loans are the most common funding paths for storage businesses.

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How to write a business plan for a boat and rv storage facility.

If you want to start a boat and RV storage business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your boat and RV storage business plan:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of storage facility you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a storage business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of storage facilities?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the storage industry. Discuss the type of RV and boat storage facility you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of boat and RV storage businesses:

• Canopy Style Storage : this type of business provides storage space with an overhead canopy to protect from sun exposure.
• Manger Style Storage: this type of storage business provides covered three-sided storage (sides and a back wall) for more protection from wind and snow.
• Enclosed Individual Storage: this type of facility provides fully enclosed units to offer the most protection from weather, as well as to offer the most security.

In addition to explaining the type of business you will operate, the Company Analysis section needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, total number of spaces occupied, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the storage industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the storage industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section:

• How big is the boat and RV storage industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your storage business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments : boat owners, RV owners, young professionals, families, and retirees.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of business you operate. Clearly, a young professional boat owner would respond to different marketing promotions than retired RV owners, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most boat and RV storage facilities primarily serve customers living in the same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.  

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other boat and RV storage facilities.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes boat and RV rental companies as well as empty lot rentals. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other RV and boat storage businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be RV and boat storage facilities located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of storage units do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide better storage services and security?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of RV and boat storage facility that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to RV and boat storage, will you provide pull-through access, utilities such as water and electricity, or other services including a dump station, wash station, or propane station?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your RV and boat storage facility. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your storage facility located in a freeway-accessible area or large residential area, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your business, including billing customers, speaking with potential customers, giving potential customers facility tours, and maintaining the storage units.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to rent your 50th unit, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your storage business to a new location or city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing storage facilities. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing boat and RV storage businesses or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you rent one new unit per day or per week? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets it should include how much it costs to start or grow an RV storage or boat storage business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment, supplies and maintenance
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your storage location lease or blueprints of enclosed storage units you are working on.  

Putting together a business plan for your boat and RV business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert and know how to start a boat storage business. You will really understand the storage industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful RV and boat storage business.  

Boat and RV Storage Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my boat and rv storage business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Boat and RV Storage Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of boat and RV storage business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a boat and RV storage business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of boat and RV storage businesses?

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Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Boat and RV Storage Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Junk Removal Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Junk Removal business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Junk Removal businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Junk Removal business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is a startup boat and recreational storage business located in Missoula, Montana. The company is founded by Richard Diamond, an experienced outdoorsman and trout fishing guide who has built an extensive clientele of travelers who arrive in Missoula towing fishing boats and recreational vehicles. Richard has garnered a positive reputation as a an excellent source of information in everything related to fishing and outdoor experiences. He has already received over thirty commitment letters from his clientele, indicating they will utilize his boat and recreational storage business when they travel to the area. Richard is confident that he can efficiently create the startup business and build it into a long-term profit generator. Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will provide excellent service in addition to the ideal setting for boat and recreational vehicle storage. In addition to providing covered storage in premium spaces, the startup will also provide cement throughout, laundromat services, water and air stations, and a repair shop to service boats and recreational vehicles. Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be the premier location to house a boat or vehicle for any length of time.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will provide:

• Daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly rates for boat and recreational vehicle storage
• Cement flooring on all storage bays
• Air tag check-in/check-out privileges
• Premium covered spaces for boats or recreational vehicles
• Repair shop for boats and recreational vehicles
• Self-serve laundromat facility for campers and boaters
• Water and air stations for vehicles
• Black water/gray water sewage removal station

Customer Focus

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will target all owners of boats and recreational vehicles. They will target local owners who need a permanent place to house a vehicle and they will target travelers, those who fish and those who hike in the area. They will target new owners of boats and recreational vehicles. They will target those who are shopping for boats and recreational vehicles. In all cases, Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will deliver the best services for the reasonable cost of storage, along with premium care and repair of their vehicles.

Management Team

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be owned and operated by Richard Diamond. He has recruited Sandy Hayes, an associate with ten years of experience as an recreational vehicle park owner, to be his Operations Manager and help oversee the office and administration duties.

Richard Diamond is a graduate of Missoula Central College, where he graduated with a General Business degree. He has spent the previous twenty years in the outdoorsman business, where he served as a trout fishing guide and general manager for a recreation company. His reputation as a trusted advisor in everything related to outdoor experiences has led him to be “premier trout fishing guide” in the Missoula region. Richard is also a recreational vehicle enthusiast, having owned several in the past twenty years and is highly-knowledge in servicing and repairing them.

Success Factors

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified team of Rick’s Boat and RV Storage
• Comprehensive menu of services, including boat and recreational vehicle repair
• Air tag check in/check out services
• 125 storage bays for vehicles up to 42-feet in length
• Cement bays, providing superior tire wear and longevity
• Premium covered bays at modest additional pricing
• Reasonable rates and discounted long-term rates
• Convenient laundromat facility for travelers
• Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will offer modest pricing and expanded services far beyond those of any other storage facility

Financial Highlights

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its boat and recreational vehicle storage business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the financial projections for Rick’s Boat and RV Storage.

Company Overview

Who is rick’s boat and rv storage.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is a newly established full-service boat and recreational vehicle storage business in Missoula, Montana. Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and efficient choice for boat and recreational vehicle owners within Missoula and those who travel to the Missoula region. Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will provide a comprehensive menu of storage and repair services for any boat or recreational vehicle owner to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive array of services, including storage, repair services, air and water stations, sewage removal station, laundromat facility and premium covered bays.

  Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be able to house and service boats and recreational vehicles of all sizes and types. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in both the use of boats and recreational vehicles, and the storage of them, as well. Rick’s Boat and RV Storage removes all headaches and issues of the boat and recreational vehicle owner and ensures all issues are taken care of expeditiously while delivering the best customer service.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage History

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is owned and operated by Richard Diamond. He has been an experienced trout fishing guide and general manager for a recreation company for the past twenty years. His reputation as a trusted advisor in everything related to outdoor experiences has led him to be “premier trout fishing guide” in the Missoula region. Richard is also a recreational vehicle enthusiast, having owned several in the past twenty years and is highly-knowledge in servicing and repairing them.

Since incorporation, Rick’s Boat and RV Storage has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Rick’s Boat and RV Storage, LLC to transact business in the state of Montana.
• Has a contract in place at the boat and recreational vehicle site and will set up a repair bay, a laundromat, and a small office area within 10,000 square feet.
• Reached out to numerous clients, resulting in 34 letters of commitment from them to place boats and recreational vehicles at Rick’s Boat and RV Storage.
• Began recruiting a staff of service employees and office personnel to work at Rick’s Boat and RV Storage.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage Services

The following will be the services Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will provide: (9-10)

Industry Analysis

The boat and recreational vehicle storage industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $88 billion. The growth will be driven by the increase in travelers seeking outdoor experiences that offer the ease and luxury of self-provided accommodations. The growth will also be driven by boaters who either use the vehicles for swimming and leisure activities or those who fish. The growth will also be driven by those who do not want to travel outside the U.S., preferring instead to travel within the contiguous U.S. The growth will be driven by those who seek to visit the natural beauty of the U.S. Costs will likely be reduced as the continuing high volume of recreational vehicles and boats in inventory drives the purchase pricing to lower rates.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will target all owners of boats and recreational vehicles. They will target local owners who need a permanent place to house a vehicle and they will target travelers, those who fish and those who hike in the area. They will target new owners of boats and recreational vehicles. They will target those who are shopping for boats and recreational vehicles. In all cases, Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will deliver the best services for the reasonable cost of storage, along with premium care and repair of their vehicles.

Customer Segmentation

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Boat and recreational vehicle owners
• Boat and recreational vehicle renters
• Owners of high-value recreational vehicles and boats who want to secure the best storage coverage and protection
• Owners of recreational vehicles that are over-sized up to 42-feet in length
• Boat and recreational vehicle owners with a need for repairs or servicing
• Travelers who need temporary housing for boats or recreational vehicles
• Travelers who need laundromat services
• Travelers who need black water/gray water sewage removal services

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company follows:

Bosch Vehicle Storage

Bosch Vehicle Storage provides services and storage for boats, cars and recreational vehicles of all types. Located in Missoula, Montana, the company is able to store 50 vehicles on their property. The company offers an air and water station for servicing vehicles and an asphalt surface for storage of the vehicles. Bosch Vehicle Storage is known for low pricing and a midtown location, which is easy to access from the freeway.

The promise of Bosch Vehicle Storage is to provide the lowest cost for storage of vehicles, along with the asphalt surface bays and easy access for all long-term owners. Their list of services include: air and water station for servicing vehicles, on-site office manager, and a gated lot with guaranteed security of vehicles. The owner, Manning Bosch, acts as the on-site office manager and handles all operations of the business.

In-&-Out Travel Trailer Service

In & Out Travel Trailer Service is a Missoula-based company that provides storage for travel trailers up to 42-feet in length. The company sits on a lot that provides storage for up to 40 trailers at a time. The lot is gravel-surfaced and the boundaries are set by planter boxes around the property lines. Owners use self-service directions to enter, park and remove trailers. A self-service cash box is placed at each bay for daily payment in dollar bills. The business is owned by Ray and Tammy Sellers, who have owned and operated the business for almost thirty years. Their roles include office management and operations oversight. They live in a trailer on-property, which allows them to patrol the lot regularly for security purposes. The In & Out Travel Trailer Service is a favorite lot for homeowners in the area who have trailers over 36-feet in length.

Golden Trout RV Park & Storage

Golden Trout RV Park and Storage is a recreational vehicle park on the southern edge of Missoula. It is owned and operated by Haukie and Rami Suwani, who live on the property and act as co-managers of the facility. The primary objective of the recreational vehicle park is to provide camping for travelers or those interested in fishing and, as such, the amenities are limited to those that travelers might need: convenience food items in vending machines, bottled beverages in a vending machine, self-service payment stations and a small pond for “kiddie” fishing, along with a playground area. The recreational vehicle park will store vehicles on a short-term basis only during the winter months, as the high season is summer and visitors require all available spaces. Boats are occasionally accommodated, although not on a regular basis.

Competitive Advantage

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide comprehensive services, including customer service, vehicle repairs and multiple options for recreational vehicle and boat storage care and protection
• Cement flooring in all bays, providing tire wear-and-tear protection
• Reasonable pricing and a large selection of storage bays from which to choose, including premium covered bays at a modest additional price
• Repair and servicing of vehicles and boats
• Laundromat facilities on-site

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Richard Diamond has built up an extensive list of clientele contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to his clients. Thirty fishermen and recreational vehicle travelers have already committed to placing their boats and recreational vehicles in his storage bays for extended periods of time. They have also agreed to help spread the word of Rick’s Boat and RV Storage to their friends and associates.

Professional Associations and Networking

Various regional and national trade shows for recreational vehicles and boats will be targeted for booth rentals by Rick’s Boat and RV Storage, primarily to spread the word about this new service for regional visitors and fishermen. In addition, regional associations, such as the Chamber of Commerce and membership clubs will be targeted for referrals. Fishing competitions and related industries will be targeted, as well.

Print Advertising

Print advertising will be launched in fishing and boating periodicals and in flyers advertising services to locals.

Website/SEO Marketing

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will fully utilize their website for customer usage, including a space reservation portal, customer communication, informational notes for customers and other announcements. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all their services that Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is able to provide. The website will also list their contact information and will be optimized with SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “RV storage company” or “vehicle storage near me,” Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Rick’s Boat and RV Storage. Operation Functions:

• Richard Diamond will be the Owner and President of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations. Richard has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Sandy Hayes – Operations Manager and oversight of the office and administration duties.
• Danielle Levy – Staff Manager, who will oversee part-time employees and ensure human resources requirements are met and onboarding is complete.
• Trent Levy – Service & Repair Manager for boats and recreational vehicles.

Milestones:

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease areas for office, repair shop and laundromat
• 5/15/202X – Finalize staff employment contracts for the Rick’s Boat and RV Storage
• 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for Rick’s Boat and RV Storage clients
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Rick’s Boat and RV Storage office
• 7/1/202X – Rick’s Boat and RV Storage opens its office for business

Richard Diamond attended Missoula Central College, where he graduated with a General Business degree. He has spent the previous twenty years in the outdoorsman business, where he served as a trout fishing guide and general manager for a recreation company. His reputation as a trusted advisor in everything related to outdoor experiences has led him to be “premier trout fishing guide” in the Missoula region. Richard is also a recreational vehicle enthusiast, having owned several in the past twenty years and is highly-knowledge in servicing and repairing them.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Rick’s Boat and RV Storage are the storage fees they will charge to the boat and recreational vehicle owners for their services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to operate Rick’s Boat and RV Storage. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Rick’s Boat and RV Storage is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its boat and recreational vehicle business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the location and office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Short-term Rentals Per Month: 60
• Number of Long-term Rentals Per Month: 30
• Average Fees per Month: $57,000
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, junk removal business plan faqs, what is a boat and rv storage business plan.

A boat and RV storage business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your boat and RV storage business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Boat and RV Storage business plan using our Boat and RV Storage Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Boat and RV Storage Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of boat and RV storage businesses , some examples include: Canopy Style Storage, Manger Style Storage, and Enclosed Individual Storage.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Boat and RV Storage Business Plan?

Boat and RV Storage businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Boat and RV Storage Business?

Starting a boat and RV storage business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Boat and RV Storage Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed boat and RV storage business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your boat and RV storage business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your boat and RV storage business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Boat and RV Storage Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your boat and RV storage business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your boat and RV storage business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Boat and RV Storage Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your boat and RV storage business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your boat and RV storage business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

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Boat and RV storage Business Plan Example

JUL.23, 2021

Boat and RV storage business plan for starting your own business

RVs are becoming a norm more than ever. People use them as homes and for camping. The trouble, however, with them is that you cannot park them in your garage or driveway. You need to park them in an RV park. That has given rise to a new business and that is the basis of this RV and boat storage business plan.

So, the aim of this business, basically, is to provide people with a place to store their RVs and vans and charge them for the services. If you want to know how to start a RV storage business, we will cover all the details of that while telling you the method of creating a franchise business plan .

Let’s jump right into it and see how you can start a self-storage business plan for RVs and boats.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Jack RV storage is the example we will be using to explain all the dynamics involved in starting a boat and RV storage business. It will be situated in Tucson, Arizona. This business will be headed by Jack Reacher who is a retired World War II veteran. Keep reading if you want to know how to start a boat storage business.

2.2 Management of Boat and RV Storage Business

When you are creating a business plan for a bank loan , the most important thing is to discuss the management of the business. The success of the venture and the chances for getting approval for the loan depends on this. Jack will hire 3 managers to run the business and will himself act as the CEO of the business, exercising supreme authority in all aspects. This will run the Boat and RV storage building plans smoothly and without any issues.

2.3 Customers of Boat and RV Storage Business

That brings us to the customers we will be serving through our boat and RV storage building plans. These will be divided into four main categories:

• Tourists who want to store their RVs for a night.
• Local residents who want to park the RVs for a long time.
• People living out of RVs who want a place with parking and electric supply.
• People who use their boats for recreational purposes and don’t have place in their homes to store them.

2.4 Business Target

Talking subjectively, the business of Jack RV Storage is to provide people in Tucson with a place they can park their RV safely. The objective targets of this venture, just like a transportation business plan will include:

• Becoming the largest RV and boat storage facility in the state.
• Expanding to other states and making a brand that people can trust.
• Starting to make a sizable income for the owner, Jack.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Jack Reacher will be the owner of this business and is going to build boat storage because he has a passion for RVs and boats. He has lived out of an RV for five years. He noticed that there is a serious gap in the market when it comes to getting storage and electric supply for RV.

3.2 Why the Boat and RV Storage is being started?

Jack is starting RV storage business to capitalize in this gap in the market. His boat storage design is aimed at solving the most important problem people face and that is lack of secure locations for storing RVs and boats for long-term and short-term storage. He has a strong plan, and it will work out.

3.3 How the Boat and RV Storage Business will be started?

Step1: Planning the Feasibility

The first thing that needs to be done to start this RV storage franchise is to conduct a survey of the market and make a feasibility for the business. Jack did that and has come to the conclusion that the business can, indeed, be feasible. This is because there are thousands of RVs in the area and not even one dependable parking and storage facility for them.

Step2: Making a Name  

As RVs are quite expensive, people need to have a name that they can trust if they want to store them. For that reason, the next step in starting the business will be to establish a name for the business. Jack will get the business registered and insured to make sure people can rely on them.

Step3: Establishing the Business 

Once the business has a name, the next thing to do would be to actually establish the physical presence of the business. This will be done by buying or leasing a large plot of land and building a fence around it. The land will be acquired just out of the city so that it is cheap to buy but still easily reachable for the customers.

Step4: Going Online

As people look for everything on the internet, Jack RV Storage has to have an online presence. For that, a website will be setup where people can come and explore the business. It will provide complete information about what services the business offers and what is the pricing structure.

Step5: Promotion and Marketing

Just like a business plan for a drop shipping business, we will make sure that the business is marketed properly, and that people know of its existence. Jack will use all social and electronic media channels to advertise and market the business.

One of the most important aspects of this RV storage facility business plan is discussing the services that this business will be providing.

As the field is a very vast one, this RV and boat storage business will focus on the following services:

This aspect of the business plan storage units will cover short-term and long-term RV storage without electric supply or any other amenities.

• Boat Storage

A part of the business will be dedicated to boat storage. All stored boats will be regularly inspected, and any required maintenance work will be carried out.

• RV Electric Supply

People living out of RVs often need a source of electricity for the appliances and air conditioning in the vehicle to work. Jack RV Storage will provide this service too.

• RV Workshop

As people with RVs often come from other towns and cities and these things breakdown often, a workshop service will also be included to serve these people and make money while we are at it.

Marketing Analysis of Boat and RV Storage Business

Great service.

Great service. Good turnaround time and quality work. Thanks!

One of the most important things that you need to have for any boat and RV storage building plans is a thorough marketing analysis for the business. Jack carried out the analysis and determined that there are 10,000+ RV and boat owners in the area. This will make the storage unit business model a successful one. The other thing that was revealed in the survey was that there are only two RV and boat storage facilities in the area, and even they are extremely underequipped to handle the customers.

Let’s now explore more details of the boat RV storage business plan.

5.1 Market Trends

A survey of market trends was carried out before opening a storage unit and it was discovered that there has been a sharp rise in the number of RVs in Tucson area over the last five years. While import export business plans might not appear to be very lucrative or rewarding at the moment, this business can return massive profits.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

The customers of Jack RV Storage will be divided into the following major market segments:

UK Start-Up Visa Business Plan

5.2.1 rv owners.

This will be the main market segment for the business. The major aim of this business will be to provide RV owners in the area with a place to store and park their RVs. Permanent customers will be given a monthly subscription while temporary customers will be charged at per-hour or per-say basis.

5.2.2 Boat Owners

The second major customers of the business will be the people who own small or medium sized boats. As boats are used less often and are mainly in storage, this market segment will mainly consist of people looking for long-term storage of their boats.

5.2.3 Motorhome Owners

People who have a digital nomad lifestyle and live out of large RVs called motorhomes will also be the customers of Jack RV storage. These people will generally be temporary customers and will not stay for a long time.

5.2.4 RV and Boat Leasing Companies

Not all people own RVs and boats of their own and that is the reason leasing these things has become a big industry. However, the leasing companies in Tucson, Arizona do not have enough area to park all their RVs. Jack will serve these people too.

5.3 Business Target

• To provide reliable RV and boat storage for the residents of Tucson, Arizona.
• To provide electricity and other provisions to people living out of motorhomes in the area.
• To start making at least $262,200 per year in profits by the end of year two.
• To expand to at least 5 more locations by the end of year 3.

5.4 Product Pricing

Jack will keep the prices slightly lower than the other RV and boat storage providers in the are in the start. This will be done to convert the customers of the other service providers in the start. Once that has been done effectively and Jack makes a name for himself in the business, the prices will be increased to make more profit. This is the same strategy as the one used in trucking business plan .

Marketing Strategy

Another of the very important things needed to make any boat and RV storage building plans successful is a solid marketing strategy for the business. Jack has done extensive competitive analysis along with the marketing analysis to make sure that the business is a success. Here’s what makes up the marketing strategy of thisboat storage facility.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• It has been revealed in the marketing strategy survey that there are only two other boat storage facility providers in the area.
• The services provided by these people are not at par with what the customers require.
• The only thing we need to do to make this venture successful is to provide better services to the customers and provide them at a better price.
• Once we attract enough customers, we can charge any price of our liking from them.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• Jack will make use of all social, print, and electronic media channels operating in the area to advertise the services provided by the business.
• The focus, in the start, will be on getting more customers than making profit.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5  Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

With all that done, we are left with one thing and that is the discussion of the workforce that will be needed for starting an RV storage business. In this RV storage business plan, we will focus on the workers that are needed to start the business. The staff will increase as the business expands. It will happen in the same fashion as it does in a trucking business plan.

7.1 Company Staff

The following people will be needed to run the business:

• Jack Reacher, the owner, will be the CEO of the business.
• 1 receptionist who will also act as office secretary for the CEO.
• 3 managers will be hired for sales, operations, and marketing.
• 3 mechanics will be hired to work at the workshop allied with the storage facility.
• 3 drivers to move the permanently stored/parked RVs around.

7.2  Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

The last thing that we need to touch in this boat and RV storage business for sale are the finances involved in starting the business. Just like any logistics business plans , the costs can vary from case to case.

• The cost of buying or leasing the plot of land to establish the business will be the major chunk of expenditure.
• The cost of advertisement and promotion.
• The cost of paying the salaries to staff before the business starts making profit.
• Electricity, water, and other overheads.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 break-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

Download Boat and RV storage Business Plan Sample in PDF

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Boat RV Storage Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Real Estate Industry » Storage Unit

Do you want to start a boat storage company and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a sample boat RV storage business plan template & feasibility report.

If you live near a popular body of water, boat storage is a must and offers a lucrative business opportunity. Because so many communities discourage on-street parking of RVs and boat trailers, storage facilities for these vehicles are always in demand.

As the economy recovers, the American public enjoys more disposable income, and many have taken to the road and water for recreation, thereby providing an excellent opportunity for self-storage owners to meet the resulting need. There are many services in this industry you can offer to clients.

But remember that the economics of the local area remains a significant factor in deciding the type of storage services you can offer.

While boat and RV storage can be as archaic as outdoor parking spaces, structures for large vehicles come in three basic configurations. The simplest is a canopy style with only a roof. The manger style has a roof and is enclosed on three sides, and can include individual partitions. The third is a completely enclosed individual unit.

You might think it’s less expensive to build canopy or manger units, but that isn’t necessarily true. All three styles require deeper footings and additional structural strength to accommodate greater heights and widths as well as wind resistance. Boat and RV storage units vary in height, width and depth.

Note that in addition to the vehicle, the space will need to accommodate add-on fixtures, such as motorcycle racks, tow bars, air-conditioning units, collapsible tables and chairs, ladders, awnings, trailers, radio antennae, ski racks, and large toys such as jet skis .

Some owners will rent a separate unit for peripherals, but others will wish to keep all their items in one space. Typically, the minimum unit width is 12 feet, and the maximum depth is 45 to 50 feet. The most common unit size is 14 feet wide with mixed depths up to 40 feet and an eve height of about 16 feet.

When determining the best size, consider the cost to build vs potential income on a per-square-foot basis. RVs and boats can cost anywhere from $500 to well over a million dollars. Whatever the cost, each one is someone’s treasure, so security is paramount.

The features you offer will depend largely on clientele. At a minimum, you’ll need perimeter fencing, which can consist of anything from chain link and razor wire to solid block walls. As 24-hour access is often a requirement of this type of storage, camera surveillance and key-coded entry gates are common.

Ingress and egress keypads should be positioned at 42 and 66 inches from the ground to accommodate the window heights of cars and RVs. It’s wise to have a camera aimed at vehicle license plates as they enter and exit the facility. You can also use proximity card readers, adding limited-access zones for only those tenants with stored vehicles.

More sophisticated security measures can also be used, such as infrared beams with silent or audible security alarms. Table-top motion sensors can be rented for tenants to place in their vehicles. However, the most desired services are utilities such as electricity and water.

Water is usually offered for free, and electricity can be metered or offered for a flat fee. Other popular add-ons for boat and RV storage include dump, wash and propane stations, and the sale of valued commodities such as ice, coffee, glass wipes, air-fresheners, etc. Some facilities offer vehicle prep and clean-up services.

A Sample RV Boat Storage Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

In recent times, the self-storage landscape in the U.S has experienced positive changes as many households store excess items in storage facilities. A sub-sector of the commercial real estate market, self-storage industry involves renting space or storage units to renters on a month-to-month basis.

Within the past 40 years, this industry has proven to be the one of the sectors with the most encouraging growth in the U.S commercial real estate industry. The unquantifiable growth of the industry has been attributed to self-storage consumers including renters, homeowners, students, businesses and transitional populations who are constantly demanding rental storage.

According to reports, self-storage units have been growing massively. For instance, in 2016 there were more than 58,000 self-storage facilities in the U.S with a total of 32 million storage units covering over 2.3 billion square feet of storage space.

The total square miles of self-storage facilities in the U.S is almost three times the size of Manhattan. Experts believe that as the U.S population increased their rental storage by more than 10 percent within the past 20 years, the self-storage industry also grossed over $30 billion in revenue.

Reports also have it that the number of renters who used storage facilities in 2007 almost doubled by 2013 and 2 million out of 17 million renters reported that they would most likely rent in the future. According to industry reports, self-storage revenue will grow at an annual rate of 2.9 percent through 2022.

The industry revenue is expected to reach $32.6 billion in 2023. Also, the self-storage facilities industry will have a growth rate of 14 percent by 2022. The largest self-storage operators in the U.S. include public storage, extra space storage, cube smart, life storage, and U-Haul.

Public storages have the largest number of self-storage facilities in the U.S. As of 2017, the uk, France and the Netherlands have 42.2, 10 and 9.1 million square feet of space for self-storage facilities, respectively. The need for self-storage facilities in the global market has increased international development of facilities.

Between 2015 and 2016, Mainland China increased its facilities by 52 percent and Brazil is developing 25 to 30 properties per year. In addition, the real estate investing market has been greatly expanded thanks to equity crowdfunding.

2. Executive Summary

Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company is a new storage facility to be located near Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. Our owner is experienced in the moving and storage field, owning a well-established moving company (Mince Movers) and a successful self-storage facility in nearby Seattle (Zone By Zone).

The building we plan to purchase for our storage facility is a large old ceramic manufacturing plant originally constructed around 1954. Our Storage facility will contain three floors of heavy-duty wood and steel beam construction ideally suited to self-storage units. The building is heated by oil.

One of the two elevator shafts will be the home for a new over-sized passenger elevator suitable for transporting storage contents from the ground level to the units on the second and third floors. A large separate parking lot area comes with the building which will be needed for this project.

This lot would be used as additional future storage units to be set up using one of several one-story steel storage systems. It is estimated that with the purchase of the building taking place in March of this year, the conversion into storage units could be completed and ready for occupancy by the end of October.

Demand for the units is strong, as evidenced by the market survey of existing self-storage facilities. Bank financing for 65 percent of the project costs is expected with the remainder supplied by shareholder equity.

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, we plan to develop a brand that speaks volume and we plan to let our clients know who we are over the airwaves and in print. We plan to kick off our message using the Portland Tribune as well as hosting parties for certain rental association decision makers and the media.

We also plan a pre-opening marketing budget of $81,000. Note that as we profit, we will spend about 4 percent of gross revenues on advertisement and marketing. At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, we also plan to distribute survey cards to assess what we are doing right and identify what we are doing wrong.

We strongly believe that the use of well design spaces and rental facilities that target new markets in the city, and aggressive media exposure will allow us to grow over the next five years into a major player in the region. We hope to establish a reputation of quality, fun and safety that will make us the leader in the Portland storage market.

Although there are risks associated with starting a new business like ours in a virgin location, but we believe that the success of our project hinges on the strength of acceptance of unique services. After year one, we expect a lot of competition in the form of the established RV Boat Storage businesses banding together against us.

3. Our Products and Services

Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will provide RV Boat Storage services throughout Portland and other neighbouring cities. We will offer different spaces for RVs and boat trailers. Our services will range from hourly rentals to 6 months max rentals.

We will provide about 49,000 square feet of well-maintained self-storage units that will be offered for both residential and small business renters.

To make us different from the rest of the companies that operate here, we plan to aggressively advertise our services. To achieve this, we plan to present surveys to our customers after every deal and we will evaluate our services at our monthly meetings to expand what we are doing right and correct and what we are doing wrong.

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company is to lead other storage companies and make our standards their ambition, with a combination of clean spaces, friendly and informative workforce along with outstanding customer service.
• Our mission at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company is to provide safe, professional, reasonably priced RV boats storage services to our customers.
• Our plan is to fill a niche in the Portland storage market that is unmet at this time.
• We will provide friendly and courteous service to our customers from the time we meet to the time they leave.

Our Business Structure

Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will be formed as a Limited Liability Company based in Portland, Oregon. It will be owned by Winter Scout and other principal investors.

Mr Scout will serve as the company’s president. He has extensive experience in the moving and storage field, owning a well-established moving company (Mince Movers) and a successful self-storage facility in nearby Seattle (Zone By Zone).

Mr. Scout is known for recognizing opportunities and developing staff members to take advantage of those situations. He will assemble a staff of experienced rental professionals to oversee operations and market our services.

Facility Manager

• Human Resources and Admin Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Information technologist
• Accountants/Cashiers
• Maintenance and Secretarial staffs

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• Boosts management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counselling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• In charge of fixing prices and signing business deals
• In charge of providing direction for the business
• Establishes, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Charged with signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Admin and HR Manager

• In charge of overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Tasked with maintaining office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Makes sure operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out induction for new team members
• In charge of training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• In charge of arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office cum business activities
• In charge of managing the daily activities in the boat storage facility
• Ensures that proper records are kept and the facility does not run out of storage spaces.
• Ensures that the facility is in tip top shape and spaces are properly cleaned and easy to locate
• Interfaces with third party suppliers (vendors)
• Controls distribution and supply chain inventory
• Supervise the workforce in the storage floor
• Takes care of external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyse the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
• In charge of supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company

Information Technologist

• Manages the organization website
• Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
• In charge of installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
• Manages logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems
• Manages the organization’s CCTV
• Handles any other technological and IT related duties
• In charge of preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• In charge of financial forecasting and risks analysis
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Tasked with developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Tasked with administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Maintenance and secretarial staff

• Makes sure that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In centre, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the human resources and admin manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on storage spaces, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries
• Provides information about warranties, manufacturing specifications, care and maintenance of storage spaces.
• Tasked with cleaning the storage spaces in the facility at all times
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the facility manager

6. SWOT Analysis

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, one of our goals is to achieve revenue of about $2 million by our first full year of operations, exceeding $7 million by our third year, also to expand into newer markets in our business location.

We also want to achieve net operating profits of 60-70 percent within the first 12 months of rental services and operations and steady growth enabling rational expansion of the company thereafter. We agree that this is huge for a company in its formative stage but we are certain of our ability to achieve these milestones.

We have analysed our market and we know the best approach and markets to reach out to. We employed the services of Crofton Consults and the Times Communications to help with our SWOT Analysis. Below is the summary of the said SWOT Analysis;

According to our SWOT analysis, our strength lies in our plan to hire only experienced, highly professional management team that combines vision; realism;

Financial ability; solid knowledge of the Portland storage rental market; familiarity with, and belief in, the utilization and benefits of the latest computer informational technologies; realization of the crucial importance of an organization personnel to its success; and a total commitment to the overall mission and goals of Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company.

According to our SWOT analysis, our weakness will be the time it will take us to get our clients to trust in our offerings and services and preach the good news to their friends and family.

• Opportunities

As the economy recovers, the American public enjoys more disposable income, and many have taken to the road and water for recreation, thereby providing an excellent opportunity for self-storage owners to meet the resulting need. In recent times, the self-storage landscape in the U.S has experienced positive changes as many households store excess items in storage facilities.

The threat facing us is the amount of Competition in this market. From our detailed analysis, it was obvious that this industry is very competitive, but our quest at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company is to fill some gaps in the industry and to do this in a very efficient and innovative way.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trend

Most people expect the rise in the cost of gasoline and, most recently, diesel fuel to affect the production and sale of larger boats and motor-homes, but that’s not the case. Recent conversations with experts from the boating and RV industries indicate that the RV- and boat-storage business is still on the rise. Below are trends we hope to align with as we grow Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company.

• Storage Implications

As an RV/boat-storage business, we will strive to market our facility differently from other self-storage companies. We understand that our customers have to be aware of the value of their property and will have insurance. Their income level will no doubt be higher than what we would expect from an apartment renter needing a little extra space.

Boat/RV tenants will probably have a lien holder that will be more than happy to repossess the vehicle if the tenant defaults in the payment.

Tenants typically won’t risk losing a $100K vehicle to an impound lot if we evict the property. All of this means we have a higher-calibre tenant and fewer late pays. Our tenant churn should lower because the RV and boat clientele seem to stay once they find a place that meets their needs. RV and boat tenants are likely to have Internet access and will shop and bank online.

• Planning the Facility

We believe the profile of the ideal tenant will help us in choosing the amenities to offer. Every location will have a unique set of demographics, influencing how a facility is built. For instance, anyone close to a lake should be influenced by the boating crowd; the larger the lake, the larger the boats.

In an area populated by seasonal visitors (snowbirds and the like), businesses may want to plan on catering to the RVer. Angled spaces allow storage businesses to narrow driveways while easing the parking chore for tenants. Fully enclosed spaces seem to be more desirable for tenants with expensive vehicles.

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, we plan to create a mix of different length spaces, with a higher number of 30- to 40-foot spaces than for 50-foot-plus spaces, especially for boating enthusiasts. Even at 38 feet in length, RVs need at least a 42-foot space.

Many RVs have a ladder down the back that sticks out at least a foot, plus mirrors that stick out in front, requiring extra room.

Our door height or roof will be 14 feet. Even some of the 22-foot ski boats have ski towers on them and get to be 13 feet on the trailer. Pontoon boats also sit high on trailers and typically have tall Bimini tops, which will push their height to over 13 feet.

• Amenities and Marketing

Since we offer RV storage, we plan to create a dump station which will be desirable for tenants. Wash bays can generate revenue while reducing the cost of hose bibs throughout the property, plus we will have greater control of tenants water use. In a destination where people drive a distance to get to their chosen storage area, bathrooms with showers are a welcome amenity.

We understand that tenants like to come off the lake and wipe down their boats before storing them. On hot days, a shower is a nice way to cool off before the drive home. We have taken our time to research and understand our prospective tenants’ behaviour even before planning the design and marketing plans for our facility.

We plan to broaden the scope of our marketing efforts by building a quality website to track construction progress and grand-opening specials; after opening, the website will allow tenants to pay online. We also plan to advertise in RV and boating magazines, especially ones that cater to our area. We will also create a referral program that encourages complementary businesses to participate.

8. Our Target Market

Our target markets at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company are water enthusiasts who want a unique storage experience at a reasonable price. These will include people who live and come to the city for the day, leisure travellers, honeymooners, budget-conscious travellers, business travellers, families, students and seniors.

Our most important customers will be the people who visit Portland for sightseeing, rest and relaxation, on their honeymoon or are here for a convention or other special interest.

We at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company plan to develop special pricing to encourage tourists to patronise our services. Because we support our service people, we will offer discounts to active duty and retired military personnel during Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day holidays.

Our Competitive Advantage

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, our advantage in this business are the intelligent, progressive, and aggressive marketing that identifies our company as a different kind of player, one that is sharper and smarter, with a higher level of professionalism and operational standard than is the norm in the Portland region.

We plan to concentrate on safety, with highly trained, dedicated, and professional personnel, caring for the customer and the customer’s needs.

We plan to establish a system that will help us to carefully market research, discover new untapped markets in the city that may be of interest to our customers and enable high load factors and profitable operations. We also plan to make use of information technology to reduce staffing and other operational cost; expand the potential market base; readily capture sales opportunities; and enhance customer convenience and satisfaction.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will generate income from providing RV Boat Storage services throughout Portland and other neighbouring cities. We will provide different kinds of storage spaces for water enthusiasts who want to store their boats and other vehicles. Our services will range from daily rentals to 6 months max rentals. Our source of income includes:

• Rental charges from boat parking space
• Rental charges from RV and Boat trailers parking space
• Rental charges from fishing space storage
• Renting charges from sea kayaks storage
• Renting charges from racing boats storage

10. Sales Forecast

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, our sales forecast is based in capturing 25 percent share of the over 4 million visitors that visit Portland along with the approximately 2.4 million people that live in the metro area. It simply means that we would have to service over a million customers during the 2022-2025 year.

This figure is based on renting an average of 40 storage spaces per day divided between our 160 storage spaces during the summer months.

During the summer months in Portland, with the amount of advertising and aggressive marketing that we plan to do, we will be able to meet the goals that we have set for ourselves. We believe that our location is the best there is in the whole state of Oregon, and our workforce and the services we will be rendering will make all these possible. Our sales forecast is outlined below;

• First Year: $2,082,000
• Second Year: 54,973,000
• Third Year: $60,318,000
• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, our plan is to reach our customers through traditional marketing communication methods.

From our analysis, we noted that our target customers, and tourists in general, are Internet savvy, so before traveling to Portland, a lot of them tend to access the Web for information they want and may make reservations or purchases via that medium. Also the Internet tends to serve as an effective means of communication and distribution of information about our services.

We also plan on giving our clients brochures and other literature that they may share with their family and friends, but we will also look at cable television, radio and other inexpensive media to get our message out. We believe that marketing effort at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will employ a mix of vehicles to convey our message and presence.

• Print media — local newspapers, free weeklies
• Broadcast media — local programming and special interest shows
• Hotel guides — concierge relations, Chamber of Commerce, Board of Trade, Portland Convention and Tourism Corporation brochures
• Yellow Pages, charity events

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Our overall concept and design at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company ensures a platform for first class promotion.

We strongly believe that marketing and promotion will stress the unique storage spaces we provide. Strong public relations combined with well-placed, well-designed, distinctive advertising appealing directly to people who are our prospective customers will help get the word out. Below are the few channels we plan to leverage;

• Trade shows

We will attend and participate in several trade shows to keep up with changes in the industry.

• Print advertising and article publishing

We will also print our advertising program which will include advertisements in local newspapers and local journal publications.

• Use of unique colour and uniform

We also plan to have a distinctive colour that can only be attributed to our rental business alone.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

We believe that most of our pricing at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will determined by our industry and competition. The price of boat storage renting in Portland ranges from $20 to $40. By setting our price at the level of $30, we will appeal to the budget conscious traveller as well as those that price is not an option.

With a potential market of over 4 million people per year, we are basing our first year figures on servicing over a million or 25 percent of the potential visitors.

We do not plan to keep our prices way below what is obtainable in the industry; we also plan to offer special services that will have a unique price. We have also set plans to offer discount services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers.

• Payment Options

Having done our research and studies, we plan to bring payment options that are unique and will make the payment for the service we offer very easy for our customers.

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via POS machine
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment with cash

To offer all these outstanding payment channels, we have partnered with a renowned bank in the country and we hope to make use of that relationship. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials so that it will be easier for clients to make payments when necessary.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, most of our planned start-up costs are apportioned for the provisions of a sufficient cash reserve to assure timely payment of operating costs for the company in the first three months. We also need adequate funds to cater for the costs associated with recruiting, training, and paying operational crews.

We also need funds for Marketing, advertising, and public relations, including the cost of setting up a website capable of offering rental information and making online sales and reservations, and related Internet marketing, as well as conventional print and broadcast advertising, and public relations activities. We have analysed the market and below are the key areas we plan to spend or startup capital on:

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Portland – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $3,000
• Marketing promotion budget for Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company- $500,000
• Cost for hiring Business Consultant – $20,000
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $254,000
• Cost of accounting software, tracker software apps, CRM software and Payroll Software – $6,000
• Cost for purchasing standard office facility with large space for parking our storage spaces- $1,250,000.
• Cost for facility remodelling the facility- $70,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and utility deposits – $3,500
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, fuelling, maintenance, payments of bills et al) – $250, 000
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Credit card machine, POS, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of Launching an official website: $600
• Miscellaneous: $10,000

From our detailed analysis above, we will need an estimated $2,540,000 to start Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company.

Generating Funding/Startup capital

We at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company are currently seeking $1.5 million financing to fund our business and its initial operations.

This funding will cover the purchase of storage spaces, marketing, software, and hardware. Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company will be owned by its founder Winter Scout and principle investors. These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate funding from angel investors

Note: We at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company have been able to raise $1,000,000 from the personal savings and family soft loans of Mr Simon Danica. We are hoping to raise the remaining funds from investors who would want to invest in a lucrative venture like Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

At Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company, our plan is to shape operations, and present a professional, serious, growth-oriented image from the outset, that will set the stage for a reasoned, planned expansion, mirroring growth rates projected for the first years of operation.

We plan to identify and develop strategic alliances through the Portland Chamber of Commerce, the Portland Board of Trade, the Portland Convention and Tourism Corporation and other Portland associations and tourism groups.

Also upon successful operation of two years, we will begin to develop strategies and plans that will be geared towards opening new offices and storage services in other cities in Oregon. Our commitment is to maximize the pleasure of our customers so that their time with us will be one of the most memorable parts of their water adventure.

As we grow and profit, we at Pacific Storage® RV Boat Storage Company intends to spend from 5 percent to 10 percent of gross revenues on advertising thereby raising our business image in the regional rental service and operations market. Just like we stated above, we will aggressively sell the benefits of doing business with us by implementing the following action items:

In our first months of operations we will:

• Start with a major advertisement campaign to let the whole Portland know there is a new storage business in town.
• Join the Portland Chamber of Commerce, Portland Convention and Tourism Corporation and Portland Board of Trade and co-host a meet and greet party for the local business, media and government officials and invite decision makers from the area.
• We will buy inexpensive media time throughout the year on local radio, in the print media, on television and cable television outlets to promote our rental service.

In the future we will:

• Develop special storage offers such as ‘The Longer The Better Only’
• Develop Veterans space rental specials.
• Host a once a year group racing kayaking contest.
• Add to our product line a picture-taking ability so that before customers go with their adventures, take pictures of the group and have a framed portrait waiting for their return.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts : Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
• Leasing, renovating and equipping our facility: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founder: Completed
• Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed software applications, furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement : In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with banks, financial lending institutions, vendors and key players in the industry: In Progress

Related Posts:

• How to Start a Storage Unit Business With No Money
• 31 Best Storage Business ideas You Can Start Today
• How Much Does It Cost to Start a Storage Unit Business?
• How Much Can You Make Renting Storage Units? [Profit Margin]
• How Much Land is Enough for Self Storage Building Project?

RV and Boat Storage Business Plan

Written by Elma Steven | Updated on April, 2024

How to Write a RV and Boat Storage Business Plan?

RV and Boat Storage Business Plan is an outline of your overall RV and Boat Storage business. The business plan includes a 5 year projection, marketing plan, industry analysis, organizational overview, operational overview and finally the executive summary. Remember to write your executive summary at the end as it is considered as a snapshot of the overall business plan. The creation of a RV and Boat Storage business plan requires careful consideration of various factors that might impact the business’s success. Ultimately, a RV and Boat Storage business plan serves as a roadmap to guide the company’s direction.

You can spend 3 to 4 weeks trying to write your own Business Plan by browsing through free online resources or hire a professional writer for $2,000. There is a better way to do this-  Download Our RV and Boat Storage Business Plan to write a plan in just 2 days .

This depends on your expected revenue and cost. Also, we need to consider the startup cost. Find out the answer- Is RV and Boat Storage business Profitable?

Table of Contents

Executive summary.

RV Storage Solutions, is a visionary venture poised to revolutionize the recreational vehicle storage industry. As the popularity of RV ownership continues to surge, the lack of convenient and secure storage options has become a pressing problem for enthusiasts nationwide. Our business is founded on the mission to provide comprehensive and cutting-edge storage facilities tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of RV owners. With a commitment to innovation, security, and exceptional customer service, RV Storage Solutions aims to establish itself as the premier RV storage provider in the industry.

Mission: “Our mission is to provide RV enthusiasts with secure, accessible, and top-tier storage facilities, ensuring the safety and longevity of their cherished recreational vehicles. We aim to simplify the storage process and offer peace of mind to RV owners, allowing them to focus on the adventures that lie ahead.”

Vision: “Our vision is to become the premier RV storage provider in Outdoorsland and a recognized leader in the industry nationwide. We strive to set the standard for excellence in RV storage, continually innovating to meet the evolving needs of our customers while maintaining a commitment to environmental sustainability.” 

Industry Overview: The recreational vehicle industry is currently experiencing exponential growth, with sales of RVs reaching record highs in recent years. This surge can be attributed to a shift in consumer preferences toward experiential travel and outdoor adventures. The industry’s annual revenue has also seen substantial growth, with a diverse customer base ranging from retirees seeking adventure to younger families looking for affordable travel options. As the RV industry continues to expand, so does the demand for reliable and secure storage options. 

Financial Overview:  

Business Description

Business Name: RV Storage Solutions

Founders: Jacob Harrison

Management Team:

Legal Structure: RV Storage Solutions LLC

Location: Outdoorsland, USA.

Goals: 

• Customer Satisfaction: Our primary goal is to consistently surpass customer expectations by delivering exceptional service, ensuring security, and providing convenience.
• Expansion: Within the next five years, we aim to establish additional storage facilities in strategic regions across Outdoorsland as part of our rv and boat storage business plan.
• Technology Integration: We are committed to continuously investing in advanced security systems and user-friendly online platforms to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Environmental Responsibility: By 2025, we will implement environmentally friendly practices, including the utilization of solar energy and water conservation measures, across all our facilities.
• Community Engagement: We actively engage with the local communities in Adventureville through partnerships and sponsorships, fostering a positive image and contributing to the city’s growth.

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Products: 

Secure RV Storage: Offers secure storage facilities for recreational vehicles, ensuring the safety and protection of these valuable assets. 

Convenience and Accessibility: The company places a strong emphasis on providing customers with convenient and easily accessible storage solutions. This includes 24/7 access to storage facilities, well-lit premises, and efficient ingress and egress.

Climate-Controlled Storage Options: Recognizing the importance of preserving the condition of RVs, RV Storage Solutions provides climate-controlled storage units. These units help regulate temperature and humidity, preventing damage to the vehicle and its contents.

Advanced Security Features: Security is a top priority. The company employs state-of-the-art security systems, including 24/7 surveillance, access control systems, and security personnel, to ensure the protection of RVs stored at their facilities.

Online Reservation and Account Management: RV owners can easily make reservations and manage their accounts through the company’s user-friendly online platform. This convenience streamlines the storage process and enhances the customer experience.

Eco-Friendly Maintenance Services: In line with growing environmental responsibility, RV Storage Solutions offers maintenance and cleaning services that incorporate eco-friendly practices. These services help preserve the environment while maintaining the quality of customers’ RVs.

Financial Overview

Key Metrics:

Business Model

Organizational Overview

Jacob Harrison

Founder/ CEO

Jacob Harrison brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for outdoor adventure to the world of recreational vehicle storage. A native of Adventureville, Outdoorsland, Jacob’s journey began with a lifelong love for exploring the great outdoors, which eventually led him to discover the unmet needs of RV owners in his community.

Jacob’s background is steeped in entrepreneurship and innovation. Prior to establishing RV Storage Solutions, he successfully launched and managed a series of tech startups in the outdoor recreation and eco-friendly sectors. His entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his commitment to environmental sustainability, has been a driving force in shaping RV Storage Solutions’ unique approach to RV storage.

With a degree in Business Management from Adventureville University and a keen eye for identifying market gaps, Jacob has assembled a dedicated team of professionals who share his vision of transforming the RV storage industry. His leadership style is characterized by a hands-on approach, a focus on customer-centric solutions, and a commitment to delivering excellence in every aspect of the business.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jacob is an avid outdoor enthusiast himself, often embarking on RV adventures with his family and friends. His personal experiences on the road have given him invaluable insights into the needs and aspirations of RV owners, further fueling his drive to create a safe, convenient, and eco-conscious storage solution for fellow enthusiasts.

Staff Positions

Spending on Management & Operations:

Spending on Marketing & Sales: 

Spending on Finance & Accounting:

Industry Analysis

Industry overview.

The RV storage industry is a niche sector within the broader recreational vehicle (RV) and outdoor recreation market. It caters to the storage needs of RV owners who require safe, secure, and convenient spaces to store their vehicles when not in use. This industry has seen significant growth and evolution in recent years, driven by several key factors.

Problems & Opportunities

Market Expansion: As the RV ownership market continues to grow, there are opportunities for new RV storage businesses to enter underserved regions and capture market share.

Technology Integration: Offering user-friendly online platforms and advanced security systems can attract tech-savvy customers and improve operational efficiency.

Environmental Initiatives: Incorporating sustainable practices can appeal to environmentally conscious RV owners and contribute to positive brand image.

Initial Investment: Establishing RV storage facilities with advanced security features can require a substantial upfront investment.

Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to local zoning regulations and obtaining necessary permits can be challenging in some areas.

Competition: The industry’s increasing competitiveness means that new entrants may face established players with brand recognition and customer loyalty.

Target Market Segmentation

Geographic Segmentation:  

employs geographic segmentation by targeting various locations, including the Adventureville Metro Area, the broader Outdoorsland Region, neighboring CrossCountry State, coastal retreats like Seaview Bay and Beachcomber Cove, mountain getaways in Alpine Peaks and Summit Valley, and the warm climate-seeking market in the hypothetical Sunshine State. This approach allows the company to customize its marketing and services to meet the specific needs of RV owners in each of these distinct geographical segments, maximizing its reach and effectiveness in catering to the diverse customer base.

Demographic Segmentation: 

Age Group: By offering flexible storage options and appealing services, the company caters to the needs of both older retirees and younger, adventurous families.

Income Level: Premium climate-controlled options appeal to higher-income individuals, while outdoor parking spaces and cost-effective plans are accessible to those with more budget constraints.

Family Size: RV owners come from diverse family sizes, from couples to large families. Offering differently sized storage spaces, ensuring that families can find the appropriate storage solution for their RVs, regardless of size.

Lifestyle and Interests: Recognizing that RV owners have diverse interests and lifestyles, the company offers amenities and services that cater to different preferences. 

Geographical Location: Geographical factors also play a role in demographic segmentation. RV owners from various regions have different needs and preferences. 

Psychographic Segmentation: 

Adventure Seekers vs. Relaxation Enthusiasts: Recognizes that RV owners have diverse psychographic profiles. Some are adventure seekers, craving the thrill of exploration and outdoor activities, while others are relaxation enthusiasts who value peaceful and serene getaways. 

Environmental Consciousness: Many RV owners are environmentally conscious, aligning their values with sustainable and eco-friendly practices. The company appeals to this segment by implementing green initiatives, such as solar energy utilization and water conservation measures, and by actively participating in local environmental efforts.

Community-Oriented RVers: Some RV owners place a strong emphasis on building connections and community while on the road. The company fosters a sense of belonging by engaging with local communities through partnerships and sponsorships, creating a welcoming environment for this psychographic segment.

Luxury and Comfort-Seekers: For those who prioritize luxury and comfort during their RV travels, the company offers premium services like climate-controlled storage and valet options, catering to their desire for convenience and upscale experiences.

Budget-Conscious RVers: Recognizing that some RV enthusiasts are more budget-conscious, the company provides cost-effective storage solutions without compromising security and convenience, ensuring affordability for this psychographic segment.

Behavioral Segmentation: 

Frequency of Use: Identifies different customer behaviors based on the frequency of RV use. For those who use their RVs regularly for weekend getaways, the company offers easily accessible outdoor parking spaces. In contrast, for seasonal or occasional RV users, indoor climate-controlled storage options are available to maintain the vehicle’s condition during periods of inactivity.

Seasonal Usage: Behavioral segmentation also considers seasonal usage patterns. Snowbirds who use their RVs seasonally during winter months, for example, benefit from storage solutions that ensure their vehicles are protected and ready for travel when needed.

Reservation and Account Activity: Monitoring customer behaviors related to reservations and account activity enables RV Storage Solutions to offer a seamless and user-friendly experience. Customers who frequently book storage or require account updates receive personalized support and incentives, enhancing their overall satisfaction.

Maintenance Preferences: Some RV owners prefer DIY maintenance, while others seek professional services. The company tailors its offerings to these behavioral differences by providing RV maintenance and cleaning services that cater to both DIY enthusiasts and those who prefer professional assistance.

Feedback and Reviews: Actively gathers feedback and reviews from customers to identify trends in behavioral preferences. This information helps the company make continuous improvements, addressing concerns and meeting the evolving needs of its customer base.

Market Size

Total Addressable Market (TAM): In this case, it amounts to $1 million, indicating the total potential revenue that could be generated if RV Storage Solutions captures every RV owner’s business within its geographical and demographic reach.

Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM):  With a SAM of $300,000, it reflects the portion of the market within the company’s reach, considering factors such as location, marketing, and operational capabilities.

Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM): With an SOM of $600,000, the company has set a target to acquire 50% of the available market within its reach, based on its strategies and competitive advantages.

Competitive Landscape

SecureRVGuardians: A well-known chain of RV storage facilities with a strong reputation for security and convenience. They offer advanced surveillance systems and easy online reservation options. Their brand is recognized for its commitment to protecting RV investments.

GreenSpace RV Storage: Distinguishes itself through its eco-friendly practices and sustainability initiatives. They are known for their use of renewable energy sources and water conservation measures, attracting environmentally conscious RV owners seeking responsible storage solutions.

RV Heaven Retreats: A premium RV storage provider with a focus on luxury and comfort. They offer valet services, climate-controlled storage, and premium amenities, appealing to RV enthusiasts looking for a touch of luxury during their travels.

Affordable RV Haven: Caters to budget-conscious RV owners by providing cost-effective storage options without compromising on security or accessibility. They are recognized for their affordability and value-driven services.

MountainView RV Resorts: Combines RV storage with scenic locations in mountainous regions. They offer storage services near popular hiking and outdoor destinations, attracting adventure-seeking RV enthusiasts.

Porter’s 5 Forces

Threat of new entrants: Typically requires a substantial initial investment in secure facilities and advanced security systems. Additionally, obtaining necessary permits and adhering to zoning regulations can be challenging. These barriers to entry reduce the threat of new competitors.

Bargaining power of buyers:  RV owners have moderate bargaining power due to the availability of different storage options. They can choose among various providers based on factors like price, location, and services offered.

Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers of security systems and facility maintenance services may have some bargaining power, but the RV storage industry has multiple suppliers to choose from. The industry’s ability to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers depends on its size and purchasing power.

Threat of substitutes:  There are limited substitutes for RV storage, especially for those who require secure and accessible facilities. Alternatives like storing RVs at home (if permitted) or in non-specialized storage areas may lack security and convenience, making RV storage facilities a preferred choice for most owners. 

Rivalry among existing competitors: The competitive rivalry in the RV storage industry is moderate to high. Established players, as well as new entrants, compete for market share. Differentiation through services, amenities, and location is crucial for companies to gain a competitive edge. 

Marketing Plan

Marketing budget.

Total budget for projected years:

Budget allocation across channels: 

Marketing Channels

We plan to use the following promotional tactics:

Website and Online Platform: It provides a user-friendly interface for RV owners to learn about services, view pricing, make reservations, and manage their accounts. Additionally, the online platform offers blog content, tips, and updates to engage and educate the RV community.

Social Media Marketing: Maintains an active presence on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Through these channels, the company shares engaging content, including photos, videos, and articles, to connect with current and potential customers. Social media serves as a valuable tool for community building and brand promotion.

Local Advertising: The company leverages local advertising channels, including print media, radio, and local event sponsorships, to increase brand awareness within its target geographic regions. 

Partnerships with RV Dealerships: Collaborates with local RV dealerships to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. These partnerships often involve referral programs where RV dealerships recommend the company’s storage services to their customers.

Email Marketing: The company utilizes email marketing to communicate directly with its customer base. This channel is employed for sending updates, promotions, and important information to current customers and subscribers.

Financial Plan

A financial plan of a RV and Boat Storage business plan provides a comprehensive projection of a company’s financial health and its anticipated monetary performance over a specified period. This section encompasses a range of financial statements and projections such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and capital expenditure budgets. It outlines the business’s funding requirements, sources of finance and return on investment predictions. The financial plan gives stakeholders particularly potential investors and lenders a clear understanding of the company’s current financial position. A financial plan helps businesses demonstrate their financial prudence, sustainability, and growth potential.

T his s ection of th e RV and Boat Storage business plan helps your lender figure out whether you will be able to pay off the loan, whether the business is sustainable, what are the growth prospects, etc.

Income Statement

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Revenue Summary

Cost Summary

Loan Amortization Schedule

Salary Summary

Non-Current Asset Schedule

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How to Start a RV Storage Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 22, 2024

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The RV storage business is growing at a rapid rate. In 2022 the market hit $48 billion , with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0%. This could bring the market to more than $80 billion by 2035.

With more families and individuals investing in RVs for leisure and travel, demand for secure and accessible storage facilities is on the rise. This creates an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in breaking into the industry.

This guide will provide insight on how to start an RV storage business. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, registering an EIN, obtaining business insurance, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about starting a boat and RV storage business.

1. Conduct RV Storage Market Research

Market research is essential to starting a self-storage facility. Boat storage requires detailed information to create a successful business plan. Primary research you produce yourself and secondary research you obtain through a third party, both come in handy.

Here are some of the details you’ll learn through market research.

• With more RVs on the road, demand for specialized storage facilities is surging.
• There are over 4,400 RV storage businesses in the US, and individual facilities are running near full capacity.
• Prime locations boast 95% occupancy rates.
• Favorable demographic trends also bode well for the industry.
• RV travel appeals strongly to Baby Boomers, and this large demographic segment is entering the prime RV ownership age.
• There are over 73 million Boomers in the US, and Boomers account for over 60% of current RV owners.
• For entrepreneurs interested in starting an RV storage business, the market opportunity is substantial.
• Success depends on picking the right location, offering competitive rates and high-quality facilities, and implementing savvy marketing.
• In an industry growing at over 5% annually, new entrants have the potential to establish a thriving enterprise serving RV owners’ storage needs.

Though launching any new business requires significant upfront investment and effort, RV storage stands out as an attractive and promising sector in today’s recreational vehicle economy.

2. Analyze the Competition

Thoroughly analyzing the competition is crucial when starting an RV storage business. This involves assessing both local brick-and-mortar competitors and evaluating a wider online presence. Competitive analysis helps a new boat storage business determine important details like the types of storage being provided locally, prices charged by other boat storage businesses, and more.

Some of the ways to learn about your competitors include:

• For existing storage facilities in your area, visit their locations in person to gauge factors like security, layout, amenities offered, and occupancy rates.
• Note prices for different unit sizes, any move-in specials or discounts, and the condition of the grounds.
• Check review sites like Yelp to see customer feedback and monitor it regularly.
• Drive by at night to evaluate lighting and activity levels indicating demand. This on-the-ground reconnaissance gives key insights into local competitors’ strengths and weaknesses.
• Analyzing online presence is equally important.
• Search for local storage businesses on Google Maps and assess how many reviews they have, along with average ratings.
• Check their websites for professionalism, ease of use, and extent of information provided.
• See if they utilize SEO effectively to rank well for local searches.
• Look for their listings on directory sites like Yellow Pages to evaluate citation consistency.
• Ensure they have profiles on major platforms like Google Business and see how many followers or reviews they have accrued.
• Monitoring online visibility provides a comprehensive view of competitors beyond just physical facilities.

Combining insights from on-the-ground observation and web monitoring paints a complete picture of competing RV storage offerings in your market. Regularly analyzing competition is essential even after opening your facility, to further refine your business plan and stay ahead of shifts in the local market.

3. Costs to Start an RV Storage Business

Keep in mind, that starting an RV storage business requires startup and ongoing expenses. Here, we’ll break down some of the common costs you’ll encounter.

Start-up Costs

When launching an RV storage facility, there are a variety of start-up costs to consider.

• One of the largest will be purchasing or leasing a piece of land for the storage lot, which could range from $100,000 to over $1 million.
• Site development including grading the land, installing roads, fencing the perimeter, and adding lighting could cost $200,000 or more.
• Constructing the storage space for RV and boat storage will also require significant capital. Steel storage units typically run $50-$100 per square foot, while paved storage pads can be $15-$30 per pad space.
• A medium 50,000-square-foot storage facility would therefore need around $3-$5 million just for storage structures.
• Design and permitting fees need to be accounted for as well, which could cost $50,000+.
• Other start-up costs will include an office and staff facilities (approximately $150,000 if constructed on site).
• Office equipment and furnishings ($20,000)
• Security system ($50,000 for gate access, cameras, etc.).
• An insurance policy ($5,000 annually), and legal fees related to permits and contracts ($10,000).
• Website design and hosting ($3,000), and miscellaneous costs like signs and marketing materials ($10,000).

These are some of the common startup costs you’ll encounter as you create an RV storage business plan. Buying the boat storage facility makes up the bulk of this cost.

Ongoing Costs

• Mortgage or rent payments
• Property tax
• Utilities like electricity, water, telephone/internet, etc. ($2,500 per month or more depending on utility rates and facility size)
• Waste disposal ($500 monthly)
• Payroll for managers and staff ($4,000+ monthly assuming 2-3 employees)
• Insurance premiums ($400 monthly)
• Minor repairs and maintenance ($1,500 per month)
• Office supplies and miscellaneous ($500 monthly)

Annual ongoing costs

• Major maintenance or repairs (budget $20,000 annually)
• Property taxes if not escrowed into a mortgage ($30,000 depending on location and value)
• Income taxes
• Marketing and advertising ($6,000-$12,000 annually)
• Accounting services ($5,000 annually)
• Legal services retainer ($3,000 annually)

Careful financial planning and cost control will be essential to maintain profitability. But in a rapidly growing industry like RV storage, a strategically sited and priced facility in the right market can produce over $500,000 in annual revenue at good occupancy rates, allowing for solid returns on the initial facility investment.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting an RV storage business, choosing the right legal structure is an important decision. The four main options each have advantages and drawbacks to weigh.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest structure. There is little paperwork, and the business is not considered separate from the owner. However, the owner has unlimited personal liability for debts and claims, which poses risks for an RV storage business vulnerable to property damage or customer injury lawsuits.

Partnership

Forming a general partnership shares liability across partners and allows the pooling of resources. However partnerships can experience internal disputes, and remaining partners still bear responsibility if one partner causes debts. Partnerships must also file separate tax returns.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company (LLC) provides personal liability protection like a corporation with the pass-through taxation of a partnership. Members are shielded from business debts and claims, losses are passed to members’ returns, and overall paperwork and formalities are simpler than in a corporation.

Corporation

A corporation fully separates the business from owners and avoids double taxation, but requires extensive recordkeeping and administration. The complex setup process and less flexibility in issuing dividends or stock makes a corporation unnecessary for most RV storage businesses with a small number of owners.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

One key legal step for any business is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a federal tax ID number, from the IRS. This unique identifier is required for important tasks like opening business bank accounts, applying for licenses, and hiring employees.

RV storage businesses need an EIN even if they do not plan to have employees right away. Self-employed owners still report taxes for the business separately from their returns. An EIN is vital for handling necessary IRS paperwork and tax filings for the company.

Thankfully obtaining an EIN is quick and can be done online via the IRS website here: Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) . The online application only takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. You will need to provide basic information like the name and address of the business owner(s), along with details about the company’s ownership structure and operations.

Once submitted, you will receive an EIN immediately that can be used to open business accounts right away. There is no cost to obtain an EIN from the IRS.

In addition to the federal EIN, RV storage businesses will also need to register with their state revenue or taxation department for sales tax and other state business taxes. This can be done on the website of your state’s business services department. Filing fees are generally $50 or less.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Maintaining accurate financial records is crucial for RV storage businesses. With regular transactions and expenses, utilizing accounting software and professional accounting services is highly recommended.

Accounting Software

RV storage involves recurring revenue from monthly rental fees along with various overhead costs. Tracking all of these inflows and outflows meticulously is vital. Rather than error-prone manual methods, small business accounting software like QuickBooks allows easy tracking of income, expenses, account balances, and taxes.

Hire an Accountant

While software provides essential tools, working with a professional accountant is ideal for ensuring full legal compliance and optimized taxes. Services like bookkeeping, payroll, quarterly/annual tax filing, and overall financial statement preparation provide invaluable expertise. Expect fees of $100-$150 per month for bookkeeping.

Open a Business Bank Account

Maintaining completely separate finances for your business and personal life is also key for simplified accounting and avoiding IRS issues. Your storage company should have its own business checking account and credit card used strictly for company expenses.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for a dedicated business credit card provides spending flexibility and separation from personal finances. Business cards weigh factors like years in business and annual revenue over personal credit scores when setting limits. An ideal starting limit is $5,000 – $10,000.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Starting an RV storage business involves obtaining several important licenses and permits to operate legally and avoid issues. Find federal license requirements through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state requirements.

At the local level, RV storage facilities require zoning approval and likely a conditional use permit depending on municipal ordinances. Zoning laws for commercial properties dictate allowable businesses for each zone type. Specialized storage can fall under light industrial zoning. Research options in your area and consult zoning officials early when selecting potential sites.

The conditional use permit application involves submitting your business plan, site plans, and often a community impact study. This allows the local zoning board to review how the storage facility may affect neighborhoods. Expect at least 2 months to move through the application process. Permit fees range from $2,000-$5,000.

Construction permits from the local building department are also necessary for development projects like adding storage structures, gates, fencing, or office space to the property. These permits govern technical specifications for building safety and access compliance.

Don’t forget landscaping and stormwater management approvals as well. Most areas have regulations about controlling drainage, limiting impervious surfaces, and requiring retention ponds for large paved areas like storage lots. Integrate sustainable features like rain gardens or permeable pavements.

Specialized licenses like weigh station operation permits may apply for onsite RV weighing scales. States also often require the registration of security guards or gate attendants checking visitor credentials.

8. Get Business Insurance

Carrying proper business insurance is strongly advised when launching an RV storage operation. Policies protect your company’s financial health by covering losses from unforeseen events.

Without adequate coverage, scenarios like fire damage, customer injury lawsuits, or employee theft could severely harm or cripple your business. Rebuilding after a fire or paying large legal settlements from your pocket could lead to bankruptcy.

To avoid this, RV storage businesses need policies like:

• Property insurance covers buildings, structures, and contents. This protects against losses from fire, storms, vandalism, and more.
• Liability insurance covers injuries to customers or damage to their property while on your premises. This protects in case of lawsuits.
• Commercial auto coverage for company vehicles. This handles collisions, accidents, or cargo damage.
• Workers’ compensation for employee injuries on the job. This is required by law in most states.
• Umbrella insurance provides additional liability limits atop other policies. This adds another layer of financial protection.

The process for obtaining business insurance involves:

• Determining needed coverage types and desired limits. Consider worst-case loss scenarios.
• Getting quotes from providers like The Hartford and Progressive Commercial . Provide details on operations, property values, and number of employees.
• Choosing a policy with sufficient coverage at an affordable premium. Optimal deductibles reduce premiums while remaining within your means.
• Completing the application and providing all requested information to bind coverage.
• Paying policy premiums when billed to continue active coverage.

Working with an insurance agent or broker streamlines the process and ensures proper coverage. Protect your RV storage investment and peace of mind by securing adequate business insurance from the start.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a professional office space lends credibility and provides convenience for RV storage businesses when meeting clients or handling daily administrative tasks. The optimal setup depends on budget, location, and operations.

Home Office

A basic home office works well for sole owners doing administrative tasks like invoices and scheduling. Dedicate a quiet, private room only for work. Expect minimal costs like a desk and supplies, but distractions can be challenging. Meet clients elsewhere.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces like WeWork offer affordable shared offices with amenities like meeting rooms, lounges, and coffee. These foster collaboration and provide turnkey offices. However, storage clients may prefer to meet at your facility. Expect to pay $200-$500 monthly for dedicated desks or private offices in coworking spaces.

Retail Office

Retail office spaces are ideal if also operating a companion RV supplies shop. Adjoining storage administration and the store provides convenience for customers. Office rent averages $15-$25 per square foot.

Commercial Office

For larger operations, Class B or C commercial office spaces near your storage lot offer room for staff and storage client meetings. Averages $10-$20 per square foot but allows room for growth. Location adjacent to your facility can enable easy access for clients.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching an RV storage operation requires acquiring the necessary facilities, vehicles, and gear to provide secure, accessible storage. Entrepreneurs have options to buy new or used, rent, or lease much of the key equipment.

Buying brand-new storage structures, buildings, paving equipment, or company vehicles provides modern amenities and features. However, it requires major capital outlays. New single-story steel storage units cost $50-$100 per square foot. Newer model trucks or utility vehicles for the facility run $25,000.

Purchasing good quality used equipment through sites like Craigslist , Facebook Marketplace , eBay , and auctions can yield major savings. Gently used steel storage units or RV carports cost 50% or more below new. Older model enclosed trailers for moving RVs run just a few thousand. Vet equipment thoroughly and factor in repair costs.

Renting equipment like bulldozers, excavators, or pavers for site grading and development avoids large purchase costs. Rental yards offer flexible rates from $100-$300 per day. Compare local outlets for the best selection and pricing.

Leasing storage buildings, sheds, office trailers, or other major equipment is also an option to acquire essential assets without huge outlays. Typical lease terms run 12-48 months with buyout options. Monthly costs are often lower than financing purchases.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Creating a distinctive brand is key for RV storage businesses to stand out, build recognition, and connect with customers. Carefully crafting the brand identity and assets provides a solid foundation for marketing success.

Get a Business Phone Number

Having a dedicated business phone line lends legitimacy and convenience to customer communications. Services like RingCentral offer toll-free numbers, call routing, voicemail, and other professional features from $20-$60 per month.

Design a Logo

Designing a unique logo encapsulates the brand visually. Given the outdoor, adventure positioning of most RV storage, lively nature motifs or road trip imagery often work well. Services like Looka provide access to designers to create custom logos for around $150.

Print Business Cards

With a logo established, create matching letterhead, signage, website theme, and other assets. Consistent use of colors, fonts, and styling builds recognition. Order economical business cards, flyers, banners, and signs from Vistaprint . These serve as rolling ads.

Buy a Domain Name

Secure a domain name that matches your brand. Aim for yournameRVstorage.com or similar. Use name tips from Namecheap and budget $10-$15 annually.

Build a Website

Building a modern website quickly is achievable through user-friendly platforms like Wix . Pick sleek themes and highlight services, amenities, rates, and contact options upfront. Or hire web developers on Fiverr for custom sites from $500.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Tapping into local and industry organizations provides invaluable connections and knowledge for RV storage entrepreneurs. Surrounding yourself with peers and experts fuels growth.

Local Associations

Joining local associations like the Chamber of Commerce or growth alliances gives access to other business owners in your area. These groups enable networking opportunities and foster community relationships. For example, the Austin Independent Business Alliance connects over 400 local businesses through events and initiatives.

Local Meetups

Attending local storage industry meetups and trade shows allows connecting directly with fellow storage operators to share ideas and strategies. Sites like Meetup help find events near you. For example, the Self Storage Association of Michigan hosts regular chapter meetings across the state.

Facebook Groups

Facebook groups bring together specialized communities across distances. For storage pros, groups like RV/Boat Storage Investors and Self Storage Networking and Acquisitions enable asking questions, getting feedback, and discovering resources.

13. How to Market an RV Storage Business

Implementing an effective marketing strategy is essential for RV storage businesses to attract clients and drive growth. A mix of digital promotion, community networking, and customer referrals can build a thriving customer base.

Personal Networking

Start with your inner circle. Friends, family, and existing contacts are likely to become first customers. Offer discounts for referrals to incentivize happy patrons to spread the word.

Digital Marketing

Digital tactics should form the core of your marketing efforts for the best ROI.

Useful approaches include:

• Search ads on Google Ads to get found for local RV storage searches
• Facebook/Instagram ads targeted locally and to RV enthusiast interests
• An email newsletter with storage tips and company updates
• Search optimization to rank highly for local RV storage keywords
• Positive online reviews on Google, Facebook, and industry sites
• A YouTube channel with RV storage tips and facility walkthroughs
• Blogging about RV care, maintenance, and storage best practices

Traditional Marketing

Traditional promotion can supplement digital efforts:

• Printed flyers and direct mailers to nearby RV owners
• Signage and billboards on nearby roads
• Radio ads on local stations
• Sponsoring relevant podcasts or blogs
• Attending RV trade shows and meetups to network

While digital marketing enables targeted, measurable campaigns, traditional tactics help raise local awareness and visibility.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for RV storage operators to earn loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and referrals. In a competitive market, experience drives growth.

Some ways to improve customer focus in boat storage facilities include:

• Little touches like greeting customers by name, explaining all policies clearly, and educating them on proper RV maintenance make a difference.
• Take time to walk new clients through the facility to ensure comfort.
• Respond promptly to maintenance issues like broken gates or lighting outages.
• The security of customers’ valued possessions is on the line.
• Send periodic emails checking in on storage status or tips to care for RVs.
• Surprise repeat patrons occasionally with discounts or free months.
• Deliver superior service during stressful times like late payments or preparing RVs for long-term storage.
• The RV community is tightly knit. Satisfied clients share stories at campgrounds and dealerships, becoming your best advertisers.
• Disgruntled customers can likewise deter potential business if their needs aren’t met.
• Set yourself apart through a service that goes the extra mile.
• The goodwill generated brings rewards for your storage operation.
• According to surveys, over 80% of customers would refer after a positive experience versus just 20% with poor service.

It pays to make customer care a top priority. Your commitment keeps clients coming back year after year while sparking invaluable word-of-mouth. Service and storage go hand in hand.

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April 9, 2024

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Boat and RV Storage Business Plan

Regardless of what content is being stored, the purpose of self-storage is the same–to keep one’s belongings in a safe and easily accessible location. However, a personal self-storage unit is a little different than storing a boat or RV. Customers who are interested in storing a boat or RV will be looking for a storage facility that specializes in this somewhat niche form of storage, which can be financially beneficial for you.

Self-storage facilities specific to boats and RVs can be a safe, sustainable, and a high-margin investment. Whether you’re looking to invest in a new facility or expand your current one, it may be worthwhile to invest in a boat and RV storage business plan!

When considering what to include in your facility’s boat and RV storage business plan, it’s important to start with the essentials. We’ve listed a few foundational components to consider when starting your strategic plan.

Boat and RV Storage Financials

Financials are perhaps the most significant and potentially the most rewarding aspect of your business plan. With higher occupancy, you’ll be able to increase your rates in a way that’s commensurate with the demand. Many facilities slowly raise rents in regular increments, such as a 4% increase after an initial six months of renting with yearly increases.

Additionally, storing high-value items such as boats or RV’s can require additional security and costs. Therefore, you’ll need to charge a premium for this service to see a significant return on your investment. Customers will also want the convenience of being able to access their storage unit, which is possible when working with a remote management team. When your storage facility is geared towards self-service, your customers will have both ease of access and peace of mind.

When thinking about how to charge customers, there are several considerations at hand. Here are a few of those considerations:

• Charging for Covered and Enclosed Spots: Covered spots will naturally have higher building and maintenance costs. This is definitely something you should consider charging extra for.
• Unlimited Access to Amenities: Customers who want to invest in enclosed parking spaces might receive access to conveniences and amenities that others will not. For example, access to washing bays, power, or the waste dump might be something you consider charging a premium for.

General Operations

Operations for boat and RV storage will be a little different than standard storage operations. You’ll need to consider the demand for enclosed and open spaces and what is needed for access to those spaces.

Investing in remote management services will also greatly benefit both you and your customers. You will save expenses on on-site staff, marketing, and maintenance fees by working with a remote management company. Additionally, your customers will be able to access their accounts online and will easily be able to enter and exit the facility when it’s convenient for them. In the long term, you’ll save money when utilizing a remote management company.

Marketing Efforts

Marketing can have a significant impact on your success with boat and RV storage. The type of marketing you do will depend on whether you’re a facility that supports both traditional self-storage as well as boat and RV storage or if your facility was designed specifically for solely boat and RV storage. This impacts your target audience and who might be utilizing your facility.

Here are a few ways you might consider marketing your storage facility:

• Digital Marketing: Invest in email marketing, paid advertising, or social media. You can target customers based on keywords, geography, etc.
• Traditional Marketing: Advertise in local newspapers or with flyers and other forms of literature.
• SEO: Spend time investing in search engine optimization to boost your website with strategic keywords.

Starting Your Boat and RV Storage Business Plan

When considering your boat and RV storage business plan, consider your current goals for expanding and investing. Next, begin strategizing a plan that aligns with these goals or objectives.

While it might feel overwhelming to create this plan and implement all the necessary details on your own, Copper Storage Management can support you in the process! A remote management company will take difficult and consuming tasks off of your plate so you can focus on what really matters; maximize your profit with peace of mind. Regardless of what path you choose, use the four categories above as a start to support your process of becoming a desirable boat and RV storage facility.

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How to Start an RV and Boat Storage Business – or Grow an Existing One

RV ownership is at a record high with more than 11 million American households owning an RV in 2021. In addition, there are a total of 17 million recreational boats currently in use in the United States. Of course, not everyone can park their RV or boat in their driveway, which makes RV and boat storage a necessity – and a great opportunity for self storage owners wondering how to start a boat and RV storage business .

Storelocal recently hosted a members-only virtual call with RV Storage Depot’s Scott Ramser , who’s been in the RV and boat storage business since the mid-1980s. He shared his expert opinions on all matters, and while the material covered during these members-only calls is generally not shared with the public, the popularity of this particular conversation inspired us to make it available to everyone.

The Evolution of RV & Boat Storage

RV and boat storage used to be a pretty simple affair, with most “facilities” usually consisting of nothing more than a barely developed piece of land roped off with a padlocked chain-link fence. Today, RV and boat storage facilities are integrating self storage disciplines into the business to bring in greater profits, offering tenants different storage types and a host of amenities to bring in greater profits, as well as following lien law, providing rental contracts, and engaging in modern marketing methods. 

While some RV and boat storage facilities remain standalone, others include self storage units to give RV and boat owners a place to store items they don’t want to take on their RV or boating trip when picking up their vehicle, towable, or watercraft. There are five main types of RV and boat storage facilities:

• Open storage. These range from the dirt fields and chain-link fences of the past to fully paved or concrete stalls.
• Outdoor covered storage. Similar to open storage, but with canopies or roof-only structures for added protection against the elements.
• Bullpen valet storage. Large warehouses with concierge parking.
• Enclosed storage. High-end, fully enclosed single-story units are most common in affluent markets.  
• Condo storage. Enclosed storage facilities that offer opportunities for ownership rather than rental.

Of course, any facility may offer a combination of these five types of storage options, and many do, offering outdoor self-parking, indoor valet parking, and a wide mix of amenities.

RV & Boat Storage Feasibility Studies

Research shows that more and more Americans, starved for recreational outlets due to the pandemic, have been snatching up RVs and boats. This has resulted in storage operators reporting increased demand for RV and boat spaces . In addition, because of this demand, storage brokers are saying owners of RV and boat storage facilities are less willing to sell, making it an owner’s market for RV and boat storage. Of course, not all markets will experience the same level of demand. So, how do you determine supply and demand metrics when conducting a feasibility study ? 

While looking at the number of registered RVs or boats in a market may seem to be a good indicator of potential demand, the best bet is to treat an RV and boat feasibility study much like a self storage feasibility model. Research should look at the competition in the market, delving into their size and existing inventory of parking spaces.

It’s also important to take note of which type of facility they offer and whether there’s an opportunity to provide a different type of service (for example, if the competition consists mainly of open or outdoor covered storage, but there is a highly affluent demographic within the market, building enclosed RV and boat storage units that they’d be willing to pay a premium for might be a good differentiator or vice versa).

When conducting a feasibility study and projecting lease-up velocity, you’ll want to use any historical lease-up information you can gather and then make adjustments for current market conditions. A good rule of thumb is an absorption schedule of one unit per day. But, remember that even as you’re renting units, you’ll also have move-outs after the first of every month. So, consider net absorption. That is, if you have 600 units, don’t think you’ll be on a 600-day schedule; it could be more like 730 days when factoring in move-outs. 

Site Selection: Building an RV & Boat Storage Facility

Laws that regulate the parking of boats and RVs in driveways, yards, and streets are gaining enforcement in even the smallest towns, making storage facilities even more valuable. So, you’ll want to look for properties near communities that prohibit RV and boat parking. Then, be sure to do your proper due diligence, assessing how much you can afford to pay for a piece of land based on the amount of rent per square foot and anticipated construction costs. 

Consider Distance

While a convenient and visible location for RV storage facilities is always going to be best, it’s worth noting that many RV and boat owners are typically willing to travel longer distances versus a traditional self storage facility (a 20-mile radius is acceptable, versus a 3-5 mile radius for self-storage).

In fact, a lot of “weekend warriors” will often consider locations that are near their business or office versus their home; that’s because they like to park their passenger car at the facility after work, hitch up their RV for a weekend trip, and then swap them back out when they return. On the other hand, boaters will seek out locations next to bodies of water that they can trailer their boat to.

Planning the Design

Once a site has been selected, the design must be carefully considered (this will, of course, vary based on which of the five types of facilities you plan to build).

A good rule of thumb is to plan for 65 units to the acre (this includes common areas and parking spaces). When laying out the lot, don’t restrict traffic flow; ease of access is critical (also leave enough room at the entrance to allow for “stacking,” when multiple vehicles are waiting to enter. The wider you can make aisles, the better (50’ for enclosed units, 45’ for angled canopy spaces). Speaking of angles, a 60-degree angle is ideal as it helps the driver use their side mirror for backing in safely. 

Site Selection: Buying an RV or Boat Storage Facility

While finding an RV or boat storage facility owner that’s willing to sell may be more difficult these days, it’s typically a lot less risky of an investment than building a facility. That’s mainly because of zoning. Zoning laws dictate how property can or cannot be used, so although you may find an ideal location for your facility, that doesn’t mean the authorities are going to allow you to build on it.

Rezoning & HOAs

While you can always attempt to rezone the land, this can be a long, expensive process, with no guarantee that you’ll come out on top. In addition, if a facility already exists, you won’t have to deal with neighborhood associations pushing back. Many HOAs have recently begun restricting new structures or demanding that they follow certain designs in order to avoid the development of an “eyesore” in their area. 

Upgrades To Consider

Of course, the existing facility may need some work, but this is an opportunity to make improvements that will allow you to charge more for rent. For example, you may want to consider adding these upgrades:

• Motorized door operators on the units (a rolling lift is preferable to the flimsier vertical lifts)
• Power hookups (consider Individually metered electricity in the units as an added benefit)
• Wash bay (a gangway that allows owners to walk the length of the vehicle and clean it really adds value)
• Dump station (it’s recommended that this, along with the wash station, be located at the front of the facility for customer convenience and for passerbyers to see it and realize its value)
• Ice machine (to allow tenants to fill up before hitting the road or the water)
• Retail RV and boating supplies for sale in the management office (at a minimum, consider offering wheel or hitch locks to prevent theft)
• Security features (access gates, automated entry , lot and keypad cameras, etc). Be sure that camera images are displayed on monitors in the sales office, making this a visible selling point).

RV & Boat Storage Pricing

Boat and RV storage pricing will vary from market to market, as well as the type of facility and the amenities offered. While some RV and boat facilities have set prices, most price by the lineal foot or square foot; it’s up to the individual facility owner.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Specify in rental agreements how a temporarily vacant spot will be handled. For example, if a tenant is not paying month-to-month, you may state that their same spot is not guaranteed unless they pay for it while they are gone. Conversely, you may state that you reserve the right to rent their spot out while they are gone as long as the new tenant will be gone by the time the original tenant returns.
• Be careful with rent increases. Unlike a traditional self storage unit, which would require a tenant to come to collect all their belongings and haul them somewhere else (something most people don’t want to do), an RV or boat owner can simply come in, hitch up their trailer, and pull their vehicle or boat away. This is especially important to consider if there are known vacancies in your area at lower-priced facilities.

The Future of RV and Boat Storage

The future of RV and boat storage looks bright! According to the RV Industry Association (RVIA), millennials are now more interested in buying an RV than any other age demographic, and their interest in RVing is positively impacting sales numbers.

This means, of course, that they’ll need somewhere to store their vehicle (or watercraft) especially with communities cracking down on boat and RV parking in driveways, yards, or streets. That’s not all; many people are also looking for places to store ATVs and jet skis. A spot carved out for an RV can easily accommodate multiple trailers carrying these recreational vehicles and watercrafts, potentially doubling the spot’s value for owners. 

Like what you read here today? We covered much more on the Storelocal members-only call, including RV and boat facility insurance, delinquency auctions and liens, and a deeper dive into pricing. To be a part of the conversation in the future, join Storelocal today!

Storelocal Team

Subscribe today, related articles, platinum storage group and the power of the storelocal brand, what to know when holding an unpaid storage unit auction, 5 self storage technologies using artificial intelligence (ai).

How to write a business plan for an RV storage company?

Creating a business plan for an RV storage company is an essential process for any entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap that outlines the necessary steps to be taken to start or grow the business, the resources required, and the anticipated financial outcomes. It should be crafted with method and confidence.

This guide is designed to provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary for creating an RV storage company business plan, covering why it is so important both when starting up and running an established business, what should be included in your plan, how it should be structured, what tools should be used to save time and avoid errors, and other helpful tips.

We have a lot to cover, so let's get to it!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for an RV storage company?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for an RV storage company?
• What goes in the financial forecast for an RV storage company?
• What goes in the written part of an RV storage company business plan?
• What tool can I use to write my RV storage company business plan?

Being clear on the scope and goals of the document will make it easier to understand its structure and content. So before diving into the actual content of the plan, let's have a quick look at the main reasons why you would want to write an RV storage company business plan in the first place.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

It's rarely business as usual for small businesses. The economy follows cycles where years of growth are followed by recessions, and the business environment is always changing with new technologies, new regulations, new competitors, and new consumer behaviours appearing all the time...

In this context, running a business without a clear roadmap is like driving blindfolded: it's dangerous at best. That's why writing a business plan for an RV storage company is essential to create successful and sustainable businesses.

To write an effective business plan, you will need to take stock of where you are (if you are already in business) and where you want the business to go in the next three to five years.

Once you know where you want your RV storage company to be, you'll have to identify:

• what resources (human, equipment, and capital) are needed to get there,
• at what pace the business needs to progress to get there in time,
• and what risks you'll face along the way.

Going through this process regularly is beneficial, both for startups and existing companies, as it helps make informed decisions about how best to allocate resources to ensure the long-term success of the business.

To maintain visibility on future cash flows

Businesses can go for years without making a profit, but they go bust as soon as they run out of cash. That's why "cash is king", and maintaining visibility on your RV storage company's future cash flows is critical.

How do I do that? That's simple: you need an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your RV storage company business plan already contains a financial forecast (more on that later in this guide), so all you have to do is to keep it up-to-date.

To do this, you need to regularly compare the actual financial performance of your business to what was planned in your financial forecast, and adjust the forecast based on the current trajectory of your business.

Monitoring your RV storage company's financial health will enable you to identify potential financial problems (such as an unexpected cash shortfall) early and to put in place corrective measures. It will also allow you to detect and capitalize on potential growth opportunities (higher demand from a given segment of customers for example).

To secure financing

Crafting a comprehensive business plan for your RV storage company, whether you're starting up or already established, is paramount when you're seeking financing from banks or investors.

Given how fragile small businesses are, financiers will want to ensure that you have a clear roadmap in place as well as command and control of your future cash flows before entertaining the idea of funding you.

For banks, the information in your business plan will be used to assess your borrowing capacity - which is defined as the maximum amount of debt your business can afford alongside your ability to repay the loan. This evaluation helps them decide whether to extend credit to your business and under what terms (interest rate, duration, repayment options, collateral, etc.).

Similarly, investors will thoroughly review your plan to determine if their investment can yield an attractive return. They'll be looking for evidence that your RV storage company has the potential for healthy growth, profitability, and consistent cash flow generation over time.

Now that you understand the importance of creating a business plan for your RV storage company, let's delve into the necessary information needed to craft an effective plan.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

Information needed to create a business plan for an RV storage company

You need the right data in order to project sales, investments and costs accurately in the financial forecast of your RV storage company business plan.

Below, we'll cover three key pieces of information you should gather before drafting your business plan.

Carrying out market research for an RV storage company

Carrying out market research before writing a business plan for an RV storage company is essential to ensure that the financial projections are accurate and realistic.

Market research helps you gain insight into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies and other key factors which can have an impact on the commercial success of your business.

In particular, it is useful in forecasting revenue as it provides valuable data regarding potential customers’ spending habits and preferences.

You may find that customers increasingly prefer online services for RV storage, such as booking a spot or making a payment. Additionally, customers could be looking for amenities like RV wash stations or on-site repair services that you could potentially offer.

This information can then be used to create more accurate financial projections which will help investors make informed decisions about investing in your RV storage company.

Developing the marketing plan for an RV storage company

Before delving into your RV storage company business plan, it's imperative to budget for sales and marketing expenses.

To achieve this, a comprehensive sales and marketing plan is essential. This plan should provide an accurate projection of the necessary actions to acquire and retain customers.

Additionally, it will outline the required workforce to carry out these initiatives and the corresponding budget for promotions, advertising, and other marketing endeavours.

By budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that the right resources are allocated to these vital activities, aligning them with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and capital expenditure requirements of an RV storage company

Whether you are starting or expanding an RV storage company, it is important to have a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) in order to ensure the success of the business.

Both the recruitment and investment plans need to be coherent with the timing and level of growth planned in your forecast, and require appropriate funding.

An RV storage company might incur staffing costs such as wages for employees, benefits, and taxes. They might also incur costs related to equipment necessary for the secure storage of RVs, such as locks, cameras, fencing, and lights. Additionally, they might require specialized vehicles to move the RVs, such as flatbed trucks, and incur costs related to their maintenance and upkeep.

In order to create a realistic financial forecast, you will also need to consider the other operating expenses associated with running the business on a day-to-day basis (insurance, bookkeeping, etc.). 

Once you have all the necessary information to create a business plan for your RV storage company, it is time to start creating your financial forecast.

What goes into your RV storage company's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your RV storage company's business plan will enable you to assess the growth, profitability, funding requirements, and cash generation potential of your business in the coming years.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a RV storage company are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for an RV storage company shows how much revenue and profits your business is expected to generate in the future.

Ideally, your RV storage company's P&L statement should show:

• Healthy growth - above inflation level
• Improving or stable profit margins
• Positive net profit

Expectations will vary based on the stage of your business. A startup will be expected to grow faster than an established RV storage company. And similarly, an established company should showcase a higher level of profitability than a new venture.

The forecasted balance sheet of your RV storage company

The projected balance sheet of your RV storage company will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Analysing your RV storage company projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your RV storage company's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your RV storage company's liquidity and solvency:

• A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
• A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The cash flow forecast

As we've seen earlier in this guide, monitoring future cash flows is the key to success and the only way of ensuring that your RV storage company has enough cash to operate.

As you can expect showing future cash flows is the main role of the cash flow forecast in your RV storage company business plan.

It is best practice to organise the cash flow statement by nature in order to show the cash impact of the following areas:

• Cash flow generated from operations: the operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the business's commercial activities
• Cash flow from investing activities: the investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.) either to maintain the business's equipment or to expand its capabilities
• Cash flow from financing activities: the financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to financiers

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

Your RV storage company business plan will normally include both yearly and monthly cash flow forecasts so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The sources and uses table or initial financing plan is a key component of your business plan when starting an RV storage company.

It shows where the capital needed to set up the business will come from (sources) and how it will be spent (uses).

This table helps size the investment required to set up the RV storage company, and understand how risks will be distributed between the business owners, and the financiers.

The sources and uses table also highlights what the starting cash position will be. This is key for startups as the business needs to have sufficient funding to sustain operations until the break-even point is reached.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what will go into the financial forecast of your RV storage company business plan, let's have a look at the written part of the plan.

Need inspiration for your business plan?

The Business Plan Shop has dozens of business plan templates that you can use to get a clear idea of what a complete business plan looks like.

The written part of an RV storage company business plan

The written part of an RV storage company business plan plays a key role: it lays out the plan of action you intend to execute to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified on the market and provides the context needed for the reader to decide if they believe your plan to be achievable and your financial forecast to be realistic.

The written part of an RV storage company business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The first section of your RV storage company's business plan is the executive summary which provides, as its name suggests, an enticing summary of your plan which should hook the reader and make them want to know more about your business.

When writing the executive summary, it is important to provide an overview of the business, the market, the key financials, and what you are asking from the reader.

Start with a brief introduction of the business, its name, concept, location, how long it has been in operation, and what makes it unique. Mention any services or products you plan to offer and who you sell to.

Then you should follow with an overview of the addressable market for your RV storage company, current trends, and potential growth opportunities.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Finally, you should detail any funding requirements in the ask section.

2. The presentation of the company

In your RV storage company business plan, the second section should focus on the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide an overview of the business's legal structure, details about the owners, and their respective investments and ownership shares. This clarity is crucial, especially if you're seeking financing, as it helps the reader understand which legal entity will receive the funds and who controls the business.

Moving on to the location part, you'll offer an overview of the company's premises and their surroundings. Explain why this particular location is of interest, highlighting factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your RV storage company to a third party financier, you could emphasize the potential for success in the area. The area could offer access to a variety of transportation routes, allowing customers to easily access the facility. The area could also be close to major metropolitan areas, providing a larger customer base. Additionally, the area could have a high population of people who own recreational vehicles, making it a prime market for your RV storage services. All of these factors could make your RV storage company an attractive investment opportunity.

Finally, you should introduce your management team. Describe each member's role, background, and experience.

Don't forget to emphasize any past successes achieved by the management team and how long they've been working together. Demonstrating their track record and teamwork will help potential lenders or investors gain confidence in their leadership and ability to execute the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your RV storage company business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your RV storage company can offer a variety of products and services to its customers, such as secure storage units with climate control, convenient pickup and delivery of vehicles, and a full-service detailing package. This provides customers with a safe and reliable storage solution for their RVs and allows them to maintain their vehicles without having to take them to a separate detailing facility. It also provides a necessary service to customers who may not have the space or resources to store their vehicles at home.

The reader will want to understand what makes your RV storage company unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channels that you are targeting them through. 

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the RV storage company business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your RV storage company, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your RV storage company targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include retirees who own RV's and travel frequently. They often need a safe, secure place to store the RV when they are not using it, and RV storage companies provide the perfect solution. They also have the disposable income necessary to pay for RV storage, making them a great target market for RV storage companies.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your RV storage company apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your RV storage company.

5. The strategy section

When crafting the strategy section of your business plan for your RV storage company, it's important to cover several key aspects, including your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

In the competitive edge subsection, clearly explain what sets your company apart from competitors. This is particularly critical if you're a startup, as you'll be trying to establish your presence in the marketplace among entrenched players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you aim to maintain profitability while offering competitive prices to your customers.

For the sales & marketing plan, outline how you plan to reach and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones through loyalty programs or special offers.

In the milestones subsection, detail what your company has achieved thus far and outline your primary objectives for the coming years by including specific dates for expected progress. This ensures everyone involved has clear expectations.

Lastly, in the risks and mitigants subsection, list the main risks that could potentially impact the execution of your plan. Explain the measures you've taken to minimize these risks. This is vital for investors or lenders to feel confident in supporting your venture - try to proactively address any objection they might have.

Your RV storage company faces a range of risks. For example, you may face a risk of theft if the storage area is not adequately secured. You could also be exposed to liability risks if something were to happen to a customer's RV while it was in storage. In this instance, you might be responsible for any damages or losses incurred by the customer.

6. The operations section

The operations of your RV storage company must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your RV storage company - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

As an RV storage company, you could have a variety of key assets and IP that are important to your business. This could include physical assets like the storage lot, structures, and equipment, as well as intellectual property like customer databases, marketing materials, and proprietary processes. You may also have valuable brand recognition that could be leveraged to attract customers. All of these assets and IP could help your business to be successful.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we discussed earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of what goes into an RV storage company business plan, let's look at some of the tools you can use to create yours efficiently.

What tool should I use to write my RV storage company's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating an RV storage company business plan:

• Using specialized online business plan software,
• Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your RV storage company's business plan

The modern and most efficient way to write an RV storage company business plan is to use business plan software .

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

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Hiring a business plan writer to write your RV storage company's business plan

Outsourcing your RV storage company business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

Business plan writers are experienced in writing business plans and adept at creating financial forecasts without errors. Furthermore, hiring a consultant can save you time and allow you to focus on the day-to-day operations of your business.

However, hiring business plan writers is expensive as you are paying for the software used by the consultant, plus their time, and their profit margin of course.

From experience, you need to budget at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax for a complete business plan, more if you need to make changes after the initial version (which happens frequently after the initial meetings with lenders or investors).

You also need to be careful when seeking investment. Investors want their money to be used to grow the business, not spent on consulting fees. Therefore, the amount you spend on business plan writing services (and other consulting services such as legal services) needs to be negligible relative to the amount raised.

The other drawback is that you usually don't own the business plan itself: you just get the output, while the actual document is saved in the consultant's business plan software - which makes it difficult to maintain the document up to date without hiring the consultant on a retainer.

For these reasons, outsourcing the RV storage company business plan to a business plan writer should be considered carefully, weighing both the advantages and disadvantages of hiring outside help.

Ultimately, it may be the right decision for some businesses, while others may find it beneficial to write their business plan using online software.

Why not create your RV storage company's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write an RV storage company business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my RV storage company business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

• Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
• Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
• Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating an RV storage company business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

• Using business plan software is a modern and cost-effective way of writing and maintaining business plans.
• A business plan is not a one-shot exercise as maintaining it current is the only way to keep visibility on your future cash flows.
• A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your RV storage company and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

We hope that this in-depth guide met your expectations and that you now have a clear understanding of how to write your RV storage company business plan. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you have questions additional questions we haven't addressed here.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a business plan to secure a bank loan?
• Key steps to write a business plan?
• Top mistakes to avoid in your business plan

Do you know entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing an RV storage company? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Boat and RV Storage Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

I. Executive Summary

This Section's Contents

Business Overview

Products served, customer focus, management team, success factors, financial highlights.

[Company Name] is a new RV and boat storage company with [X] storage units available for rent to individuals and businesses in [location]. We offer a variety of unit size options and provide units that are enclosed, covered, or uncovered, depending on the budget and needs of each customer. All rentals are month-to-month, which provides our customers with the flexibility to rent the units as long as they need them.

[Company Name] will be able to provide safe and secure boat and RV storage facilities to individuals and businesses in [location]. The services and storage units that are provided include:

• Enclosed storage units
• Covered storage units
• Uncovered storage units
• Boat and RV maintenance amenities and services
• Individual gate access code for each customer
• 24-hour surveillance across 40 security cameras

Furthermore, our storage units come in a variety of sizes. The most common options include the following:

[Company Name] will primarily serve the residents who live within a 10-mile radius of the storage facility. The demographics of these customers are as follows:

• 54,801 residents
• Average income of $82,000
• 73% married
• 55% in management/professional occupations
• Median age: 48 years

The demographic shows that [location] is an affluent town of folks who are near retirement and are ready to spend their golden years on the road or the open water. When they purchase their dream RV or boat, they will need a place to store it. We will be their go-to place to keep their RV or boat safe when not in use.

[Company Name] is headed by [Founder’s Name], who graduated from [University] with a degree in Business Administration. Prior to starting [Company Name], [Founder’s Name] worked as an operations manager at a storage company for [X] years, where he learned the ins and outs of the storage industry. His experience will be the company’s most valuable asset.

[Company Name] is uniquely qualified to succeed for the following reasons:

• [Company Name] will fill a specific market niche in the growing moving and storage industries.
• With few competitors offering storage for RVs and boats, the demand for an RV and boat storage facility in [location] is high.
• The results of a recent survey suggest that the target market is eager to make use of our services when launched.
• The management team has a track record of success in the storage unit business.

[Company Name] is currently seeking $500,000 to launch. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Store design/build: $300,000
• Working capital: $200,000 to pay for marketing, salaries, and lease costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even

Top line projections over the next five years are as follows:

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How to Start an RV Storage Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

‍As an avid traveler, I've always loved the concept of RVs - homes on wheels that give you the freedom to explore without the constraints of hotel bookings or flight schedules. But, what happens when these RVs need to be stored? This question led many investors and city limits landowners to discover the burgeoning industry of RV storage. RV storage businesses, as you know by even being on this website) provide a service to RV owners by offering secure, convenient locations to store their vehicles when they're not in use.

Over the past few years, I've seen how the RV industry has exploded in popularity, leading to an increased demand for RV storage solutions. This surge in interest isn't surprising, considering the freedom and flexibility RVs offer. As more people embrace the RV lifestyle, the need for storage services continues to grow, creating a prime opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in the storage business.

The RV storage business is not just about providing a parking space. It's about offering a solution to the challenges RV owners face when they need to park their vehicles for extended periods. These challenges include security, protection from the elements, and even basic maintenance. Tapping into this need can unlock a profitable business venture for those willing to take the plunge.

Why Start an RV Storage Business?

You might be wondering, why start an RV storage business? The answer lies in the potential profit and the growing demand. The global RV market is expected to be $87.89 billion dollars by 2028, compared to the $55.90 billion dollars this sector generated in 2021. RV ownership has been consistently on the rise, and with it, the need for storage facilities. As more people invest in RVs, the demand for safe, secure, and accessible storage solutions increases.

Starting an RV storage business can be a profitable venture, with high potential returns on investment. This business does not require any specialized skills or knowledge, making it accessible to anyone with the entrepreneurial drive (though, if you read our marketing article, customer service skills are important). Additionally, the operational costs can be quite low, especially if you already have a suitable piece of land.

Moreover, an RV storage business can offer an excellent way to diversify your investment portfolio. It's a unique and relatively untapped market, providing an opportunity to build a thriving business in a niche industry. The RV storage business can also be a great addition to existing businesses like campgrounds, RV parks, or even self-storage facilities.

Essential Factors to Consider before Starting an RV Storage Business

Before jumping into the RV storage business, it's crucial to consider several factors. First, you must understand your potential customers. Knowing your customers and their needs will help you design a business that meets their requirements. Consider factors like the average age of RV owners, their storage needs, and their willingness to pay for storage services (see our article on RV Owner Culture).

Another critical factor is location. The success of your RV storage business largely depends on your location. Ideally, your facility should be easily accessible, preferably near major highways or popular RV destinations. The location should also have enough space to accommodate a large number of RVs.

Lastly, consider the competition in your area. If there are already several RV storage facilities nearby, you'll need to find a way to differentiate your business. This could be through offering additional services, competitive pricing, or superior customer service.

Understanding the Costs: How Much Does It Cost to Start an RV Storage Business?

One of the most common questions people ask is, how much does it cost to start an RV storage business? The truth is, the startup costs can vary significantly depending on various factors. This includes the size of your facility, the location, the type of storage you're offering (indoor vs. outdoor), and any additional services you plan to provide.

The initial costs will include land acquisition (if necessary), site preparation, construction or installation of storage units, security systems, and business operation costs like insurance, utilities, and marketing. Depending on your business plan and scale, you should expect to invest anywhere from $100,000 to several million dollars.

While the startup costs might seem high, it's important to remember that the RV storage business can generate substantial returns. With careful planning and effective management, you can recoup your investment and start making a profit.

Step-by-step Guide: How to Start an RV Storage Business

Now that you understand what an RV storage business entails, let's delve into the step-by-step process on how to start an RV storage business.

• Research the Market : Start by researching the RV storage market in your area. Understand the demand, competition, and pricing.
• Create a Business Plan : Develop a comprehensive rv and boat storage business plan that outlines your business model, marketing strategy, financial projections, and growth plan. This step is vital to get to transform a dream into a tangible, realizable goal. This process involves brainstorming ideas, determine number-based goals and tangible-goals and create a financial plan.
• Secure Financing : Based on your business plan, secure the necessary financing. This can be achieved through conventional bank loans if you have a good credit score, hard money loans, private money loans or tapping home equity.
• Find a Suitable Location : Find a location that is accessible, spacious, and suitable for an RV storage facility.
• Understand Zoning Laws : Familiarize yourself with local zoning laws to ensure your business complies with all requirements.
• Build or Outfit Your Storage Facility : Depending on your plan, build or outfit your storage facility with the necessary infrastructure.
• Implement Security Measures : Install security measures like CCTV cameras, access control systems, and perimeter fencing.
• Market Your Business : Use various marketing strategies to promote your business and attract customers.

Crafting a Smart RV and Boat Storage Business Plan

A successful RV storage business begins with a smart business plan. This document serves as a roadmap, guiding you through each stage of your business journey. A comprehensive RV and boat storage business plan should include an executive summary, company description, market analysis, organization and management structure, service or product line explanation, marketing and sales strategy, and financial projections.

The business plan should reflect your vision for the business and outline the strategies you'll use to achieve your goals. It should also highlight your unique selling proposition – what sets you apart from other RV storage businesses? How will you attract and retain customers? These are some of the questions your business plan should answer.

Understanding Zoning Laws: What Zoning is Needed for RV Storage?

One of the most important aspects of starting an RV storage business is understanding local zoning laws. A zoning law is a set of regulations that restrict how a property can be used and what things are forbidden, according to the location and type of zone. You might be wondering: what zoning is needed for RV storage? Zoning laws vary by location, but generally, RV storage facilities are considered commercial properties and must comply with commercial zoning regulations.

It's crucial to consult with a local zoning or planning department to understand the specific requirements for your area. These regulations may dictate the size and location of your facility, the type of structures you can build, and even the types of services you can offer. Failing to comply with zoning laws can result in hefty fines and legal issues, so it's worth the time and effort to do your homework.

Marketing Your RV Storage Business

Marketing is a crucial component of any successful business, and an RV storage business is no exception. Effective marketing strategies can help attract customers to your facility and keep them coming back. Some proven marketing strategies for an RV storage business include online advertising, social media marketing, local SEO, referrals, and partnerships with local businesses or RV dealers.

Remember, the goal of your marketing efforts should be to build awareness and credibility for your business. You want potential customers to see your facility as the best option for their RV storage needs. This requires a consistent, targeted marketing strategy that communicates your value proposition clearly and effectively.

Maintaining and Growing Your RV Storage Business

Starting an RV storage business is just the beginning. For continued success, you must focus on maintaining and growing your business. This involves providing excellent customer service, regularly maintaining your facility, and staying updated with industry trends.

Customer service is key in the RV storage business. Happy customers are likely to become repeat customers and refer others to your facility. Regular maintenance of your facility is also crucial. A clean, well-maintained facility will attract more customers and help avoid costly repairs down the line.

Finally, stay updated with industry trends. The RV industry is dynamic, and staying on top of trends can help you adapt your business to meet changing customer needs.

RV Quick Data and Statistics

Here are some interesting facts and statistics about the RV industry

• The RV industry contributes over $140 billion to the US economy.
• Overall the RV sector supports 680,000 jobs.
• The average use of RVs are 20 days per year, meaning that RV storage facilities are needed most of the year.
• Currently 11.2 million households own a RV in the US.
• Between 2001 And 2021, the ownership of RVs have increased 62%.

Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Starting an RV storage business can be a profitable venture, given the rising popularity of RVs and the increasing demand for storage solutions. With careful planning, understanding of local zoning laws, effective marketing strategies, and a commitment to excellent customer service, you can build a successful RV storage business.

Remember, success in this business requires time, effort, and capital. However, the potential returns make it a worthwhile investment. So, if you've been pondering on how to start an RV storage business, I hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights to help you embark on this exciting entrepreneurial journey.

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Sample Boat RV Storage Business Plan

Boat rv storage business plan sample.

A business plan is a critical tool that guarantees the smooth takeoff of any business.

This document still proves effective in sustaining the boat business idea to further growth. Too often than not, people face difficulties writing their business plans due to a lack of guidance.

This article presents a boat RV storage business plan temple highlighting the plan’s key aspects you want to set up a boat RV storage business; you’ll find this plan quite helpful in writing one unique to your business.

All you have to do is follow the information provided in the different sections for clarity.

Adopt a Systematic Approach

To succeed, you’ll need first to adopt a systematic approach. Such an approach requires knowing the key components of a good boat RV storage business plan.

This refers to sections you cannot do without in a plan. Such areas include the executive summary, as well as the company description.

Others include the products & services section, market analysis, strategy & implementation, organization & management, and the financial plan & projection areas.

Now, it’s not enough to know what sections to include in your plan. You’ll need to understand how to develop each, as shown below.

i. Executive Summary

The executive summary section of your boat RV storage business plan is a condensed representation or format of the central business plan.

It highlights the different sections of the plan and allows you to quickly present your interest in your project within a few minutes.

It can also be called an advance organizer for the reader to find out what’s contained within the plan.

The executive summary section should appear at the beginning of your boat RV storage business plan but should be written last to capture your critical thoughts.

The executive summary section always highlights all the areas found within the plan. It includes further details such as the business name and location, products & services, and mission & vision statements.

Also essential is the specific purpose of the plan.

To introduce your boat RV storage business idea to your audience, you’ll need first to reveal its identity. This is where the name is presented. You’ll need to also present the business’s location with the name.

The need for its location helps your audience assess how much it will impact sales.

What services and products does your boat RV storage business provide? These might seem obvious from the name alone. However, you’ll need actually to mention the products supplied.

It’s necessary to avoid getting into much detail as there’s the main section for all of that.

Your mission statement should define what line of business you’re in. It gives the reason for the business’s existence by stating its purpose.

Your mission statement should also unveil your business’s corporate strategy. The vision statement should be stated alongside the mission statement.

The vision statement of your boat RV storage business should paint a picture of a lofty desire or goal you have for it. It’s an internal communications tool within the industry that galvanizes support or inspires the workforce towards its attainment.

What’s the specific purpose of your plan? This should be a necessary addition to the executive summary section. By clearly pointing out what you plan on achieving, you give your audience more clarity about your intentions.

ii. Company Description

Through your company description, you want to provide a broad view of your plan. Here, you’ll need to explain what your business is about, how your op is, and your primary goals.

This section should start with the legal structure of the business. It should also include the short and long-term goals of the company.

Give a brief history and nature of your boat RV storage business. Also necessary to the company description section are the demands and needs you intend or plan on filling.

Provide a summary of company growth with financial or market highlights and an overview of services, products, and customers.

iii. Products & Services

What products and services will be on offer? It would help define what you sell with further information on service and product costs, suppliers, and net revenue expected from sales.

Describe your products with a particular focus on the benefits to be derived by your clients.

What’s the market role of your products and services, and what clear advantages do such have over your competitors?

iv. Market Analysis

The market analysis section is where you demonstrate your knowledge of the industry you’re in.

This will require a great deal of market research with accompanying information that touches on industry description and outlook with supporting statistics.

Include a sketch of targeted customer segments with size and demographics included. You also must have a detailed assessment of your competitor’s weaknesses and strengths.

Add historical, current, and projected marketing data for your services here.

v. Strategy & Implementation

Sales and marketing are critical areas that need to be assessed and implemented with the help of an operating plan. You must provide details on how you plan to promote your boat RV storage business to your customers.

How will you be entering the market?

What are your labor sources, and how many employees will you need to hire for your regular operations? Provide pricing costing and promotional details with distribution information where necessary.

vi. Organization & Management

The organization and management of your boat RV storage business determine how well it does or performs. Here, you’ll need to provide an organizational chart with descriptions of departments and key employees.

Present a profile of the owner(s) with names, percentage ownership, the extent of involvement, and biography. Details of your management team, such as names, positions, primary responsibilities, and experience, are also crucial.

vii. Financial Plan & Projections

You’ll need professional help writing your financial plan and projections section.

A professional accountant will help out with that. Here, financial statements covering historical financial data, practical prospective financial information, and analysis of financial data will be performed.

The goal is to have a sound boat RV storage business plan that includes all the necessary sections. This template has touched on key areas and details you shouldn’t miss.

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Building a Boat Storage Facility: How to Start Your Boat Storage Business

Thinking about building a boat storage business? Now’s the time to invest, with boat storage shortages sweeping the nation in 2023.

Before making the leap and investing any of your hard-earned capital, there are a few things to figure out.  Skip any of these steps and you’re likely to make a wrong move , negatively affecting the success of your business in a big way.

In the guide below, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your boat storage business off of dry land– and do it right.

How to Build a Boat Storage Business: Step-By-Step

If you’re looking to invest in the storage industry, boat storage is one of the more unique angles to take.

To ensure your boat storage business is profitable, you’ll need to define your target market and scope out lucrative locations for your boat storage business, (Note: boat storage requires considerably more space than other storage businesses) . Finally, you’ll need to choose the right business structure for your boat storage setup.

Because most avid boating enthusiasts will need a place to store their boats while they’re not in use, there will be no shortage of potential customers.

Here’s what you need to know to get started: 

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1. Figure Out Your Market

Before officially starting your boat storage business, you’ll need to do market research.

Why is this so important? If you pick a bad market your business has little to no chance of success .

In the right market , you’ll be swimming in a steady stream of customers that sustains your business, provided you market properly.

In a bad market , you’ll be struggling just to find customers. And with no income streaming in, managing your boat storage facility will be nearly impossible. Without monthly rental payments to pay staff paychecks, you’ll need to dip into your own savings accounts just to keep your boat storage business afloat.

When researching your target market, here’s what to think about:

Your new boat storage facility must be located between or near a densely populated area (usually a major metropolitan area) or a recreational lake or seaside dock where boating is common. 

There’s wiggle room for how close your facility will need to be to these hubs. However, be aware that proximity to a body of water could be a deciding factor in a prospective renter’s mind. If your boat storage business is stationed 4 miles away from a popular lake or reservoir, you may lose out to the facility located 2 miles away from that same body of water.

Existing Boat Storage Businesses

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that if there are other boat storage buildings then it’s a bad market.

In fact, it’s generally the opposite. You want to see existing activity in the area. This allows you to prove there is real demand in the area.

Is There Potential for Success?

To answer this question, you’ll need to study how similar storage businesses in the area are performing.

How well are they serving their customers? Is there a need the local boat storage business isn’t meeting? Is there something they’re doing particularly well?

Figuring this out is a great way to enter a market and immediately carve out a healthy niche. 

Lastly, consider demand.

Studying existing boat storage businesses gives you a good gauge for whether yours could be successful.

To incite confidence in your business idea, you’ll want to gather data that confirms the need for a new boat storage facility in that area. 

Here are some more things to consider when researching your market and investing in a boat storage business:

2. Build Your Boat Storage Facility

There are a lot of different types of boats and they all need to be stored somewhere . While prospective renters in the area may be able to store their small boats (like their kayak or canoe) in their garage, medium to large-sized boats will likely require off-site storage in a storage facility.

The size of boats you’ll store is but one factor to consider. There are several other decisions you’ll need to make before building boat storage facilities of any kind (or purchasing a pre-existing property to develop). 

Consider each of these when thinking about how to layout your storage facility:

Earn $1,000s per year with your unused space

What types of boat storage facilities will you offer.

Not every boat storage facility is created equal.

There are several different types of boat storage:

• Open : These are open yards typically fenced in. and are the cheapest facility type to set up and maintain.
• Canopy : Boats are stored in a boat storage shed or under a canopy, offering partial protection from the sun and the elements. 
• Enclosed : Think of a modern facility inside of a warehouse with designated storage spaces or units. This storage type is most common in high-end markets such as Southern California. 
• Valet : High-end dedicated storage for customers willing to spend a little more. Because this option is the highest-end version of boat storage, they’re rarer to find.

As a boat storage business owner, you can offer two or more of these facility types at one location. Today, more and more traditional self storage facility owners are offering mixed storage options to maximize revenue.

To further maximize revenue (and expand your target market), consider allowing customers to use your storage units for a combination of purposes outside of boating/boat storage.

How Many Boat Storage Units Will You Have?

Next, consider:

• How much space do I need per storage unit/boat? (by the square foot)
• How many units do I want? (This should taken into account when setting revenue goals and before purchasing your property)

It’s advised that spaces for a boat storage facility should be a minimum of 12 feet in width and 35 feet in length to accommodate the average-sized recreational boat. From there, you can calculate how many storage spaces you’ll be able to fit on your property.

At those average measurements, you should be able to fit around 60 units per acre of property. 

Ideally, the average facility will be between 3-5 acres to serve a populated boating market.

However, there is no hard-and-fast rule here, so it can be smaller or even much bigger. 

With that number in mind, you’ll also be able to start getting a rough idea of the potential revenue for your facility (barring other factors such as occupancy rate).

3.Establish Proper Security Measures

This point might seem less important compared to the rest.

However, when you’re dealing with such large and costly items– many of which their owners are quite attached to– you need to take security seriously. 

When customers decide to use your facility, they’re placing a certain amount of trust in your ability to protect their boat not only from the elements but also from prying eyes. 

If you plan to run an open-air boat storage lot, you’ll want to install a fence around the perimeter of the property. Whether you opt for the enclosed or open facility, an alarm and security system is recommended—which should consist of security cameras, automatic alarms, coded entry, and even 24-hour human surveillance in some cases.

Also consider camera placement, as ideally there should be a camera pointed at every boat at all times.

4. Calculate Costs and Project Revenue

Finally, let’s get into the numbers.

If you’ve done what we talked about in #1, 2, and 3, you’re already off to a great start here.

You should have a clear picture:

• Your potential revenue
• And costs such as facility, security, and personnel

Now, it’s time to put this together into a business plan that more accurately projects both revenue and costs.

You’ll want to list down each and every cost to accurately estimate your initial and ongoing investment. In addition to that, you’ll need to project revenue based on:

• How many units/boats your facility can house
• Average revenue per unit
• Average length of rental / churn
• And overall occupancy rate (i.e. how many of your units are rented at any given time)

If you need to obtain funding for construction costs, you’ll also want to factor in the initial down payment for a construction loan of some kind which is usually around 20-25%. 

Also, factor in any special offers you may provide to new customers upon your grand opening in order to generate buzz and bring in your first batch of customers. 

Lastly, consider revenue methods.

Don’t assume you’ll be able to keep all of your units occupied year-round. After all, you may have customers that take their boat out of storage for the entire summer season, leaving you with empty units that aren’t producing revenue for a period of several months

In this case, consider other methods for making use of the storage space.

Ready for Your Boat Storage Business to Set Sail?

Storage businesses have become increasingly popular due to their steady revenue streams and high margins.

Boat storage offers similarly consistent revenue in an entirely different niche, making it a worthwhile consideration for those looking to get into storage real estate in general.

Plus, with a peer-to-peer marketplace like Neighbor, it’s easier than ever to find new customers in your local area and keep your storage units full to capacity.

Even if you have a fresh new storage business, you can lean on Neighbor’s great reputation to build your local customer base.

If aren’t quite ready to own a full-scale storage facility, you become a host with Neighbor and rent out your garage, driveway, or unpaved lot to boat owners in need of storage.

Related Posts

How to start a storage unit business with no money, how to start an rv storage business, self storage investment 101: how to invest in self storage (and benefit from a booming industry), how to start a parking lot business.

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RV Storage Business – Land Requirements Guide

Are you considering starting an RV storage business but unsure of the land requirements? Understanding the necessary acreage and land size is crucial for planning and establishing a successful venture in the RV storage industry. So, how much land do you need for an RV storage business?

An RV storage business typically requires ample space for parking and maneuvering large vehicles. A conservative estimate suggests around 1 acre (0.4 hectares) for every 50 to 100 RVs. This accounts for vehicle parking, driveways, and space for potential expansion. Factors such as local regulations, accessibility, and market demand may influence the exact land requirements. However, a sufficient land area is fundamental for accommodating RVs safely and efficiently.

Key Takeaways

• Determining the right land acreage is critical for an RV storage business .
• Minimum land size requirements will vary depending on the number and size of RV units you plan to accommodate.
• Accessibility, parking layout, security measures, and potential expansion possibilities all impact optimal land size .
• Effective land utilization is essential for developing an efficient and customer-friendly RV storage facility .
• Understanding land requirements is crucial for long-term success in the RV storage industry.

Determining the Right Land Acreage for Your RV Storage Business

Before you start your RV storage business , you need to calculate the optimal land acreage required. The number of RV units you plan to accommodate and additional facilities should be taken into consideration when determining the land size.

Rv storage land requirements vary based on the storage types provided. Outdoor storage requires less land compared to enclosed storage. A table showcases the minimum and optimal land sizes for different types of RV storage:

Be sure to factor in future expansion as that will impact the land size requirements as well. As your business grows, you may require more storage units or amenities for customers. To ensure the longevity and success of your RV storage business , it is essential to have ample space for growth.

Minimum Land Size for an RV Storage Business

When considering the land requirements for an RV storage business, determining the minimum land size is crucial. The minimum size needed to accommodate RVs of various sizes and allow for effective storage and maneuvering within your facility depends on the number of units and the types of amenities your location offers.

As a general rule, the minimum land size for an RV storage business is around 1 acre. This size will enable you to accommodate several RVs while allowing for adequate space between each vehicle. However, depending on your location, this size may vary due to factors such as city or county zoning regulations and business licensing requirements.

It is important to note that while 1 acre may be the minimum size required, it may not provide the best utilization for your business needs. Consider additional amenities such as office spaces, security fencing, and landscaping when determining the optimal size for your facility.

Approximate Dimensions Needed

The approximate dimensions needed for an RV storage business are as follows:

Keep in mind that these dimensions are only approximate and may vary depending on the exact size and layout of your RV storage facility .

By understanding the minimum land size required for an RV storage business and the approximate dimensions necessary for accommodating various sizes of RVs, you can plan and establish a well-designed and efficient storage facility to meet the needs of RV owners.

Optimal Land Size for an RV Storage Business

When determining the optimal land size for your RV storage business, various factors must be taken into consideration.

• Accessibility : Ensure that your facility is easily accessible from main roads, with ample space for vehicles to enter and exit.
• Parking layout : Depending on the number of RV units to be stored, create a well-organized parking layout that maximizes land usage without sacrificing ease of maneuverability.
• Security measures : Security is a top priority in an RV storage business. Consider adding surveillance systems, perimeter fencing, and controlled access to your facility to ensure the safety of stored RV units.
• Potential expansion : Plan for future expansion by reserving extra land space for additional storage units and amenities to accommodate an increasing number of customers.

A well-designed facility that takes into account these optimal land requirements will increase customer satisfaction while maximizing profits.

“By considering the ideal land acreage for your facility, you can create an efficient storage facility that meets the needs of RV owners.”

Developing Your RV Storage Facility

After determining the optimal land size for your RV storage facility , the next step is to develop the layout and design to maximize land space while ensuring functionality and accessibility. Here are some tips to consider:

Placement of Storage Units

The placement of storage units should allow for easy access and maneuvering of RVs within the facility. Consider utilizing vertical storage space with multi-level facilities or angled parking to maximize space usage.

Office Areas

Your RV storage facility should have a designated area for office operations, including customer service, billing, and records management. This area can be separate or attached to the storage facility, but should be easily accessible to customers and staff.

Customer Amenities

Providing additional amenities such as a dump station, water, or air station can create additional revenue streams for your RV storage facility. These amenities should be strategically located for customer convenience and accessibility.

Necessary Infrastructure

Infrastructure such as lighting, security cameras, and a gated access system are essential components of any RV storage facility. These systems should be in place to ensure the safety and security of the RVs stored within the facility.

“Effective storage facilities built on optimally sized land can ensure a consistent flow of revenue for your RV storage business,” said Mike Johnson, CEO of Storage Pros.

By implementing these tips, you can effectively develop your RV storage facility to maximize land space usage while maintaining customer satisfaction and security.

Starting an RV storage business can be a lucrative venture, but it requires thorough planning and consideration of the necessary land requirements. By determining the right land acreage , minimum land size, and optimal land size, you can create a well-designed and efficient facility that meets the needs of RV owners.

Developing your RV storage facility requires careful consideration of the available land space and the placement of essential infrastructure, including storage units, office areas, and customer amenities. By taking the time to develop a well-thought-out plan, you can ensure the success and profitability of your RV storage business.

In the end, understanding the land requirements for starting an RV storage business is crucial for long-term success. With the right planning and strategy, you can establish a thriving RV storage facility that meets the needs of your customers and sets you up for success in the industry.

Thank you for reading our guide on RV storage business land requirements. We hope this information has been helpful in your journey to starting an RV storage business.

What are the land size requirements for starting an RV storage business?

The land size requirements for starting an RV storage business will depend on your specific business plan and goals. It is essential to consider factors such as the number and size of RV units, parking layout, circulation space, and any additional amenities or facilities you plan to incorporate. Generally, a minimum of 2-3 acres is often required to establish a viable and successful RV storage facility.

What is the minimum land size for an RV storage business?

The minimum land size for an RV storage business can vary based on factors such as the size and quantity of RV units you plan to store. As a rough estimate, for a compact facility accommodating up to 50 RV units, a land area of 1-1.5 acres could be sufficient. However, it is advisable to have additional space for maneuvering, parking, and possible expansion in the future.

What is the optimal land size for an RV storage business?

The optimal land size for an RV storage business depends on various factors, including the number of RV units, the layout of the facility, and potential business expansion plans. It is recommended to have a minimum of 2-3 acres of land to accommodate around 50 RV units, along with adequate space for driveways, parking areas, office facilities, and future growth.

How do I best utilize the available land space for my RV storage facility?

When developing your RV storage facility, it is important to optimize the available land space. Consider factors such as the placement of storage units, office areas, customer amenities, and necessary infrastructure. Maximizing the use of vertical space with multi-story storage units, efficient parking layouts, and well-planned driveways can help you make the most of the land space.

What should I consider when developing an RV storage facility?

When developing an RV storage facility, several factors should be considered. These include the layout of the facility to ensure convenient access and maneuverability, proper security measures to protect stored RVs, provisions for office and customer amenities, and the necessary infrastructure for utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage. It is also important to have a well-designed drainage system to prevent water accumulation.

Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell travels on and off with his 3 daughters in a Newmar Baystar Class A Motorhome. He writes extensively on both RVs, campgrounds, parenting on the road tips, remote learning & schooling, and much more! Click Here to learn more about me. Click Here to learn more about my site. Editorial Policies.

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By RVStorageVancouver.com

As with any business, the key to success is to begin with the customer’s needs in mind. Throughout America, many people have discovered that owning an RV and boat provides them access to the finest in recreation. Over the last couple of years, RV and boat ownership has soared while facilities to store these high-priced toys haven’t come close to meeting the demand. 

Naturally, before you jump head first into developing and operating a toy storage facility, you’ll want to do plenty of research to ensure you’re developing wisely. Below are considerations any storage entrepreneur should consider.

Site Location

Perhaps the most critical step to building a successful RV and boat storage facility is finding the ideal site location. Metro areas like Houston, Dallas, Denver have the most RV and boat storage facilities, but they also have significant demand. Regardless, metros with higher rates of population growth are likely to be good markets to consider.

An ideal location is one that customers can find within a reasonable drive from their home, with convenient access, good visibility, etc. This could be in proximity to residential areas, banks, grocery stores, and/or close to recreational areas.

RV and boat storage facilities require a lot of space to accommodate large vehicles. In my opinion, the minimum lot size to develop an RV storage facility is about 3 acres, but this depends on several factors, one of which is land price. Finding land in the perfect location may be cost prohibitive. This is why many RV and boat storage facilities are developed in industrial areas or in the outskirts of cities.

Building a successful RV and boat storage business can be done in more remote areas than a typical self-storage facility because RV owners are willing to drive farther than self-storage users. However, if the location is less than ideal, other factors such as land price, accessibility, and visibility become more important.

How Many RV Parking Spaces per Acre?

The optimal number for an RV storage facility is about 65 spaces per acre. However, this requires the right conditions, in terms of size and shape of the facility. A 1-acre facility is certainly less space efficient than a 10-acre facility. A rectangular facility is much more efficient than a triangular facility.

In addition, a facility designed for 40-foot RVs will result in less spaces per acre than a facility designed for a mix of RV sizes. Small boats and RVs may be parked in spaces that are only 10 feet wide, while larger RVs need 12-feet wide spaces.

Finally, lower end facilities tend to have more spaces per acre than higher end facilities. Smaller facilities tend to feel crowded as these generally have smaller spaces and smaller drive aisles. higher end facilities tend to feel spacious. These often have spaces up to 14′ wide.

Understand Zoning Restrictions

Cities and municipalities have zoning processes and restrictions that must be understood well in advance of development. Counties generally don’t like RV storage facilities for various reasons. This is understandable as some vehicle storage facilities aren’t necessarily aesthetically pleasant. Additionally, vehicle storage facilities generate little employment and often don’t generate sales taxes.

Before entering into an agreement to purchase land, it is critical for the developer to understand whether the parcel of land being considered allows the construction of a vehicle storage facility by right, or if it will require a conditionally permitted use or even a zoning change.

A permitted use allows for the construction of a vehicle storage facility by right. The city and/or county can’t deny the pertinent permits, provided that all zoning ordinances are met.

Conditional permits on the other hand can be denied and even when successful, they can take several months to obtain. When purchasing land, the lengthy permitting process can be detrimental to closing on the land sale agreement.

When conditional use permits can’t be obtained, zoning changes can be a solution. Zoning changes involve changing land use classifications. This can be very difficult to achieve, as zoning changes typically require public hearings, traffic studies, input from several governmental agencies, etc. For this reason, zoning changes may not be a practical solution unless the developer already owns the land to be developed.

Know the Market

As with any business, knowing the market is imperative. In today’s market, RV storage demand is very strong. However, each market is different. Certainly each market is influenced by land prices, zoning restrictions, market demographics, etc.

One of the best market indicators comes from studying the competition. For this, it’s  recommended to map out all the RV storage facilities in the area, visiting each one of them, and collecting data on things like vacancy rates, rental rates, space sizes, facility type, amenities, etc. It’s possible to use aerial images to count spaces, estimate space sizes, measure the square footage of the entire facility, etc.

Other potential market indicators come from studying the area demographics. Is the population of the area growing or is it stagnant? Are new homes and apartment complexes being developed? What is the average income? For gathering this type of information I like to use Sperling Best Places .

Having said all of this, the most crucial piece of information for knowing the market are rental rates and vacancy rates. Rental rates will be key in running a preliminary financial analysis. And vacancy rates can be a quick way to determine whether or not there is sufficient demand. If occupancy in the area is below 85%, then it may be best to look for opportunities in a different market.

Assuming you’ve concluded the local market has potential, you may want to hire a feasibility consultant to perform a more in-depth analysis. This can cost somewhere between $7,000 and $12,000.

Rent Differential Between RV and Boat Storage and Traditional Storage

The correlation between RV storage rent and traditional storage rent is worth mentioning. According to Yardi Matrix, the national average rent for RV/ boat storage is $0.70 per square foot, compared to roughly $1.50 per square foot for traditional self storage.

Metros like Seattle have a large gap between RV/boat and traditional storage. Seattle’s RV/boat storage averages $0.48 per square foot, compared to $1.73 per square foot for traditional storage. In other words, RV storage rents are probably too low in the Seattle market. This may be also true for other large cities in Washington, like Vancouver, Tacoma, the Tri-cities area, etc.

Preliminary Financial Analysis

An investor must be able to evaluate dozens of potential deals. This means performing quick preliminary financial evaluations.

Developing a simple outdoor storage facility that is fully fenced, with asphalt surface, security equipment, etc., can cost around $15 per square foot. Installing steel canopies for covered parking can cost an additional $30$50 per square foot, depending on the type of structure. In general, developers can fit about 65 RV storage spaces per acre. This doesn’t account for setbacks, wetland buffers, storm retention ponds, etc.

In short, a 3-acre open RV storage facility can accommodate about 190 RVs of various sizes. At $15/SF, a 3-acre an outdoor RV storage facility can cost $1,960,000 to develop. Add in the cost of the land and you could be looking at a total cost of about $2,300,000.

Estimating cash flow at an early stage of the business can be a daunting task. To keep things simple, let’s use the example of purchasing a 190-space existing facility for $2,300,000. Assume an average rental rate of $120 per month per space and an occupancy rate of 90%. Let’s also assume this RV storage facility has an expense ratio of 25%. With these numbers, we can conclude that this facility can produce $177,840 of cash flow per year.

Is this amount of cash flow worth your investment? It depends on several things, but most investors want to limit their initial investment amount. This means most investors will be looking for some form of financing.

One of the tools that can be helpful to evaluate cash flow is Cash on Cash (COC). In short, COC represents income (after debt service) as a percent of cash invested. The higher the COC, the better.

The example above assumes a 10% initial investment. Is this possible? Absolutely! Consider seeking an SBA loan that requires you to put down no more than 10% of the total cost to buy the land and develop.

Aerial View of a 2.8-Acre RV Storage Facility

Select The Right Team

To build a successful RV storage business you need to have the right team. Ideally this team is experienced in RV storage development and can help guide you where you lack expertise. Below is a list of field experts considered essential to have on your team.

• Land broker – Finding the ideal piece of land requires working with a commercial land broker that is familiar with the area and can help you find a good deal.
• Lender – There are a few banks that specialize in storage facilities and in SBA loans. In some cases, you can also work with a broker lender to help you find the best lenders.
• Engineer – An engineering firm can help you develop preliminary drawings, propose parking layouts, determine quantities, navigate the permitting process, etc.
• Contractor – A good contractor can provide you with reliable construction estimates at various stages of the design process. A good contractor can also provide a constructability review to capitalize on cost reduction ideas during the design process.
• Storage Management Software Provider – Automating the day to day operations of the facility can be a game changer. There are multiple vendors providing self-storage facility management software that can easily be adapted to RV storage facility management.

If you’ve done a good job with site selection, then chances are you have a site with great visibility. Keep in mind a large number of potential customers will see your facility while they drive to work, home, do grocery shopping, or drive to a vacation spot. But, even with an excellent location you’ll want to fill your RV storage facility as quickly as possible. Think of this as a race to becoming cash flow positive.

Capitalize on site selection by placing banners and signs on the fence of your RV storage facility.

creeksideselfstorage.com

Pay for effective local advertisement. This could include sponsoring a local baseball league or a local event.

Finally, but perhaps most importantly, spend significant effort at establishing an online presence. This can involve picking the right name for the facility and selecting a domain name that corresponds to that name. Then build a website and work with a content and SEO expert to help you get traffic to your website and gain online ranking.

The thought of developing a new business can be a bit intimidating. But, remember that RV storage facilities are amazing cash producers and finding a facility to purchase at a reasonable price is becoming increasingly difficult. Still, it is certainly possible to build a successful RV storage business, but always remember to do your research.

RVStorageVancouver.com aims to be an affordable and secure place for customers to store their RVs, boats, and other vehicles.

Jim Harbaugh Lives in RV After Chargers Move

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