Are Storage Units Tax Deductible for Businesses?


Lakeside Storage
March 3rd, 2026


A Guide for Business Owners & Property Managers in Hollister & Branson, Missouri

If you run a business near Hollister, Branson, or Table Rock Lake, chances are you’ve considered renting a storage unit for inventory, tools, equipment, or seasonal items.

One of the most common questions owners ask:

“Can I write off my storage unit on taxes?”

The answer: Yes — in many cases, storage units are tax deductible business expenses. But it depends on how you use the unit.

Below is a clear explanation of what qualifies, what doesn’t, and how local businesses commonly use storage deductions.

TL;DR

  • Business storage is usually tax deductible
  • Must be used for business — not personal items
  • Boat/RV storage may qualify for rental or service businesses
  • Seasonal inventory storage counts
  • Keep receipts & usage records
  • Ask your accountant for exact filing category

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When Storage Is Tax Deductible

The IRS generally allows deductions for ordinary and necessary business expenses — and storage space typically qualifies.You can deduct storage if it’s used for:

Inventory

Retail, online sellers, and seasonal shops around Branson often store:
  • Holiday merchandise
  • Souvenirs
  • Bulk supplies
  • Overstock products

Equipment & Tools

Contractors, cleaners, and service companies in Hollister use storage for:
  • Power tools
  • Landscaping equipment
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Maintenance gear

Documents & Records

Businesses must retain paperwork for years. Storage helps free up office space.

Rental Property Supplies

Property owners near Table Rock Lake frequently store:
  • Extra furniture
  • Decor
  • Replacement appliances
  • Maintenance items

When Storage Is NOT Tax Deductible

You cannot deduct storage if it’s primarily personal.
Examples:
  • Household furniture
  • Moving storage between homes
  • Personal decorations not tied to business

However — mixed use may still allow partial deduction.

Special Case: Boat & RV Storage Businesses

In the Branson lake economy, this is common.If your business uses a stored vehicle for:
  • Vacation rentals
  • Tour services
  • Property maintenance
  • Mobile services

Then boat storage or RV/trailer storage can often be deductible.

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How Businesses Typically Categorize the Deduction

Most accountants classify storage under: Rent or Lease Expense

Sometimes under:
  • Cost of Goods Sold (inventory businesses)
  • Operating expenses
  • Property management expense

What Records You Should Keep

To safely claim the deduction:
  • Lease agreement
  • Monthly invoices
  • Photos of stored items
  • Inventory lists
  • Business registration proof

This shows the storage is tied to income activity.

Common Questions People Ask Online


Can I deduct a mini storage unit for my Etsy or eBay shop?

Usually yes — inventory storage is one of the clearest deductions.

Can Airbnb hosts deduct storage?

Often yes — especially for linens, furniture, and replacement items.

Is climate controlled storage required?

No — deduction depends on business use, not features.

Can seasonal decorations be deducted?

Yes if used for business displays (stores, rentals, offices).

What about storing a work trailer?

Typically deductible if used for business operations.

Why Businesses Around Table Rock Lake Use Storage

Local businesses are highly seasonal. Storage helps:
  • Reduce retail rent costs
  • Handle tourism inventory swings
  • Protect equipment in off-season
  • Free workspace

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Cost vs Deduction

Even modest storage costs can reduce taxable income.
Many small businesses use storage as a cheaper alternative to larger commercial leases.If your storage unit supports your business income, it is usually deductible.
The key requirement: clear business purpose and documentation.

Need Business Storage Near Branson or Hollister?

Whether you need boat storage, RV/trailer parking, mini storage, or seasonal inventory space, a dedicated unit can simplify operations and reduce overhead.

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Serving:

Hollister • Branson • Table Rock Lake Area

Lakeside Storage — Self Storage, Boat Storage & RV Parking for Local Businesses and Property Owners

Ready to Declutter Your Rental Property?

If you're a property owner near Table Rock Lake or in the Branson/Hollister area, trust Lakeside Storage to safely store your seasonal décor. Our affordable self storage units and outdoor RV and boat parking are the perfect solution to keeping your rental looking fresh, inviting, and ready for every guest, season after season.

Contact us today to reserve a unit or stop by to see why Lakeside Storage is the best "near me" option for Branson area homeowners.