By Can I Park My RV?Editorial standardSource dates are individual
Compare your RV with a storage space
Use actual measured dimensions and the operator’s usable clear measurements, not just the advertised space size. Blank space or opening measurements stay unknown. All measurements use the selected unit; enter decimal feet, so 8 ft 6 in is 8.5 ft.
| Dimension | Comparison |
|---|---|
| Measurements | Compare the entered dimensions to see the result. |
Spare width is the total difference, not clearance on each side. No working or safety margin is added. A positive difference does not prove that the RV can enter, turn or be used in this space.
How to measure before choosing storage
- Measure the complete stored unit. Trailer body length can omit the hitch. Measure height with rooftop equipment and width with the relevant projections.
- Get usable bay dimensions. Ask about columns, posts, walls, roof beams, door hardware and encroaching equipment. A nominal 12 × 40 space is not proof of 12 × 40 usable clearance.
- Check the entrance and full route. Confirm the narrowest gate/door and every lower obstruction along the approach with the operator.
- Confirm maneuvering separately. A stationary rectangle does not model the tow vehicle, turning path, aisle width, slope or tail swing. Ask the operator to assess the actual combination and route.
- Allow the room your setup needs. Confirm operator/manufacturer requirements and access for doors, compartments and maintenance. This calculator adds no assumed margin.
Worked example: a 30-foot trailer in a 35-foot bay
Suppose the trailer measures 30 feet including its hitch, 8.5 feet wide and 12 feet high. A usable covered bay measuring 35 × 12 feet with 14 feet clear height leaves 5 feet in length, 3.5 feet total width and 2 feet in height. Those are dimensional differences, not a turning or safe-clearance certification.
If the gate has only 11.5 feet clear height, that opening is 0.5 feet too low for the measured vehicle, despite the taller bay. If the gate height is unknown, the result remains incomplete.
To compare without the calculator, subtract each actual vehicle measurement from the matching usable space or opening measurement. A negative difference is a shortage; zero leaves no measured spare room.
Common RV storage-size questions
How do I enter feet and inches?
Use decimal feet: feet + inches ÷ 12. For example, 8 ft 6 in = 8.5 ft, 12 ft 6 in = 12.5 ft, and 13 ft 6 in = 13.5 ft. Entering 12.6 means 12 feet plus 0.6 of a foot; it does not mean 12 ft 6 in. Choose metres if your measurements are metric; changing the unit converts numbers already entered.
Will a “30-foot” trailer fit a 30-foot space?
Measure the full unit rather than relying on its model name or body length. If both actual measurements equal 30 feet, the comparison leaves no spare length.
Does a covered space mean an enclosed space?
No. Confirm the roof, sides and actual door/gate arrangements with the operator. Both types need usable height checks.
Can this approve my driveway or RV pad?
No. Check home-storage location, surfaces and approvals and the governing city guide separately. Space dimensions do not establish parking or construction permission.
Does this check prices or available storage?
No. It compares measurements you provide. Confirm the actual space, dimensions, availability, price and terms directly with the operator.
Measurement method and source
The calculations are direct dimensional subtraction. SmartStop’s published RV storage sizing guidance also distinguishes full hitch-inclusive length from covered/enclosed vertical clearance and calls for actual measurements including rooftop equipment. Read October 19, 2026. Operator sizing examples are not universal bay dimensions or safety margins.