Navigating Industrial Outdoor Storage Parking Lot Development  

The industrial real estate sector is undergoing a quiet but significant transformation. At the center of this shift is the rapid rise of Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS)—a niche asset class that’s becoming essential to supply chain and logistics operations across the country. It’s used for stowing equipment/materials, vehicles, or outdoor containers. We have been seeing it aggressively growing for the past few years- With leading companies like Alterra, Realterm and Jadian at the helm.  

After sitting in on some good events and speaking with people, I’ve learned about the industry and what is driving growth. The explosion of e-commerce has placed new demands on delivery speed and last-mile logistics, creating the need for strategically placed outdoor storage near urban centers and transportation corridors. Meanwhile, port congestion and rising industrial land prices are pushing companies to rethink how and where they store their equipment and containers.  

At the same time, IOS offers flexibility and cost-effective development. Operators can scale up or down without committing to expensive vertical infrastructure. And from an investment standpoint, these sites are cost-effective to develop, fast to lease, and increasingly scarce- especially in tightly zoned metropolitan areas. 

Unlike traditional warehouses or distribution centers, IOS facilities are simpler in form—typically large, paved lots used to store trailers, shipping containers, fleet vehicles, construction equipment, and other heavy assets. Yet simplicity is deceptive. As demand surges, getting IOS sites properly designed and built has become a critical—and often overlooked—competitive edge. 

Despite the relatively straightforward appearance of an IOS site, building one right takes more than just leveling dirt and laying down asphalt. The pavement needs to withstand the constant wear of heavy equipment and high traffic. Drainage and grading must be precise to avoid flooding, pooling, or erosion. And regulations around stormwater management and zoning compliance can introduce costly delays if not managed properly. Many property owners and developers underestimate the technical demands of building IOS sites… until they’re faced with premature pavement failures or tenant dissatisfaction.  

I’m personally looking forward to seeing where the asset class goes in the next few years. If you’d like to speak about your next project, feel free to call me directly.  

We handle full-site development including: 

 ✔ Grading and subbase prep 
✔ Drainage and stormwater systems 
✔ Lighting and electrical infrastructure 
✔ Fencing and access control 
✔ Concrete pads, aprons, and paving 
✔ Utility coordination and permitting