Top 7 Mistakes Collectors Make During Monterey Car Week — and How to Avoid Them

Monterey Car Week is one of the most exhilarating weeks in the automotive world—but it’s also one of the most demanding. Whether you're showing at The Quail, attending Pebble Beach Concours, or prepping for a major auction, the logistics can get overwhelming fast.

At Fiori + Mare, we’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t. Here are the top 7 mistakes collectors make during Monterey Car Week—and how to avoid them so your experience runs as smoothly as your engine.

1. Underestimating Storage Needs

The mistake: Booking too little space, too late. The fix: Secure a location early—ideally one that allows for extra space around each vehicle for detailing, maneuvering, or staging.

Tip: Our gated estate can host 12+ vehicles with plenty of breathing room, whether you're showing or staging.

2. Trusting Hotel Valets or Public Parking for High-Value Cars

The mistake: Leaving irreplaceable vehicles at risk of dings, exposure, or worse. The fix: Book secure, private storage with surveillance, limited access, and ideally, an on-site owner or security team.

3. Forgetting About the Crew

The mistake: Overlooking where your support staff, restoration lead, or transport coordinator will stay. The fix: Choose a base with accommodations or nearby lodging—ideally somewhere they can rest, prep, and stay close to the cars.

We offer a 2-bedroom guesthouse on-site for just that reason.

4. Failing to Plan for Transport Timing and Turnaround

The mistake: Scheduling vehicle delivery too close to showtime. The fix: Build in buffer days for late arrivals, detail work, and troubleshooting. Use a base where you can prep privately without stress.

5. Assuming the Weather Will Cooperate

The mistake: Not accounting for coastal fog, mist, or sun exposure. The fix: Opt for a property with both covered garage space and protected paved parking. Keep detailing supplies on hand.

6. Not Having a Private Prep Zone

The mistake: Trying to do touch-ups, tire shine, or last-minute detail work in a public lot. The fix: Choose a location where you can prep in peace—out of sight, out of weather, and out of traffic.

7. Thinking You Can “Just Figure It Out” on Arrival

The mistake: Winging it. The fix: Car Week is a logistical puzzle. From traffic closures to auction timelines, the earlier you plan, the better. Work with professionals who understand what you need—before you need it.

The Bottom Line

The best collectors don’t just care for their vehicles—they plan for them. If you’re bringing a fleet, a team, or a dream car to Monterey, make sure your storage, prep, and crew needs are already taken care of.

At Fiori + Mare, we host one client at a time with:

• A 4-car detached garage

• Paved storage for 8+ additional vehicles

• A 2-bedroom guesthouse for staff

• Security, cameras, and peace of mind

Ready to avoid the most common mistakes?

 Let’s talk about your Car Week plans →