Repair costs have risen approximately 33 percent since 2021, and 25 percent tariffs on imported after-market parts are pushing more vehicles past the 70 to 80 percent total loss threshold, increasing the number of vehicles sitting in tow yards during extended insurance processing periods, according to multiple insurance and legal sources. One documented case showed $1,350 in storage fees accumulating over 18 days while an insurer processed a total loss declaration.
Operator takeaway
More total losses means more vehicles sitting on your lot longer. The storage revenue looks good until the lien sale reveals the car is worth less than the bill, and the owner files a complaint.