Self storage is a type of business that rents out rooms, lockers or other types of storage spaces on a short-term basis. Customers can manage their units online and make monthly payments.
Whether you are remodelling your home or going through a separation, self storage can help with your transition. However, it’s important to ensure your items are properly insured while in storage.
Location
Choosing the right location for your storage business is an important decision. You will need to decide what amenities are most important for your customers and how much you are willing to pay for the best locations. For example, if you are selling climate-controlled units, it’s likely that you will have to offer higher prices than other facilities.
Another consideration is how much space you want to have available. Some facilities have a large footprint, while others are smaller and more manageable. Depending on your goals, you may need to consider purchasing an existing facility or building one from the ground up.
Performing market research is also essential. You’ll need to know the demographics of the area within a three-to five-mile radius, including the current population and projected growth. You should also look at what local residents are saying about self-storage facilities, since some people believe that they create crime and traffic. However, many modern self-storage facilities are designed to blend in with the surrounding community.
Security
Many storage companies employ physical barriers like fences and gates to protect stored items from vandalism, theft, and other threats. These physical barriers are often paired with security technologies such as surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and alarms.
For additional protection, customers store their belongings in a locked storage unit with a heavy-duty padlock that only they have the key or access code for. Some companies take it a step further by offering on-site staff and security guards to provide an extra layer of protection for their customers.
When shopping for a storage company, ask about security measures like video surveillance (do they have cameras recording 24/7?), on-site managers, and lot lighting. Site visits are also recommended to get a feel for a storage facility’s security measures in person. If a security breach does occur, the facility should promptly notify customers and work with law enforcement to resolve the issue. Pug Pro Tip: Access control technology like gate codes assigned automatically, card scanners, and Bluetooth access controls can make access to your storage unit easier for you and the staff at your storage company.
Amenities
A self storage facility is a great solution for people who are downsizing or moving to a new home. It is also a great option for those who need to temporarily store items, like tools and equipment or large furniture. Some facilities offer a variety of amenities and services, like climate controlled units, to help tenants protect their belongings from damage.
Another important amenity is a streamlined online rental process. This makes it easier for tenants to reserve and rent a unit, pay their rent, and manage their account. It also helps reduce the risk of missing payments, which can hurt a tenant’s credit score and lead to collection calls.
Many consumers begin their search for a self storage space online, so it is important to have a user-friendly website. Companies like storeEDGE specialize in creating, revamping, and maintaining websites for storage facilities. A good website can make your company stand out from the competition and increase customer satisfaction.
Pricing
The average cost of self storage varies depending on the location and features. Many facilities offer competitive pricing structures and special offers that align with customer budgets and needs. You can also find a variety of flexible payment options to help you save on storage costs.
The demand for storage has grown as the housing market continues to recover and more people are relocating across the country. In addition to residential customers, business owners have found that self storage is a more convenient way to manage their business inventory than traditional warehouses.
In New York City, prices vary depending on the location. Manhattan is the most expensive of the five boroughs, while Brooklyn can be less costly. A 10×10-foot unit in Brooklyn will usually run you $200-300 per month. In contrast, Queens is the cheapest of the boroughs, with rates that are often comparable to those in Brooklyn.