While Baby Boomers are downsizing, millennials are accumulating more and running out of room for their stuff.. As a result self-storage facilities have seen an uptick in technology “wants” from customers. Aside from innovative moving services and climate-controlled units, here are a few ways the market is answering those demands.
1. On-Demand Services
The on-demand industry satiates people’s instant gratification craving flawlessly. As expected, this trend is overflowing to the self-storage industry, as well. From reserving a storage facility online or ordering pick up and delivery of your stored items with an app on your phone.
2. Automation
Kiosks are popping up all across the nation and for various industries. When it comes to self-storage, customers now desire a more hands-on approach—and kiosks are the answer. At the touch of a fingertip, customers can complete the self-storage rental process from beginning to end.
Plus, kiosks are typically available 24/7 and are synced with the owner’s data, making the self-storage experience seamless (and attractive).
3. Increased Security
Gone are the days of using a gruff-looking guard dog or building a higher fence to protect valuable property. Instead, self-storage facilities are turning to technology to bolster their security systems.
Some facilities are forgoing the old key and padlock approach, opting instead for keypads with codes or locks that can opened with a mobile app. Not only do these security methods offer owners more control over access to their items, but they provide more protection to customers as well. What’s more is that it’s no biggie if a customer forgets or loses their key.
4. Remote Monitoring
Knowing how stored items are holding up is a significant concern for many self-storage customers. With climate-controlled units on the rise, people are genuinely worried about their things.
According to SFGate, technology is answering this particular concern, too, through remote monitoring. From thousands of miles away, a customer and owner can be alerted of an issue with the unit.
Perhaps the power goes out, or there’s a leak in the facility. No matter what the problem, owners can fix the issue in real-time thanks to remote monitoring.
5. Cloud Tech Software
Few people enjoy desktops covered in paperwork or flow charts scattered around the office. Cloud tech software offers a more sophisticated approach to managing your self-storage facility.
Owners can track industry trends, view sales figures, monitor customer activity, observe employee production, and so much more. This updated software helps to streamline your everyday operations, keeping you current on all business activities.
When used suitably, technology can offer self-storage facility owners a hassle-free way of doing business.