8 Technologies to Bring Your Self Storage Facility into the 21st Century
With the boom of technology and its prevalence amongst different industries due to its undeniable benefits for businesses, it comes as no surprise that the self-storage industry is now gravitating towards it at an alarming pace. Thus, as a business owner or manager in charge of a storage facility, you must stay updated with the latest technology and market trends.
y integrating the latest tech in your business, not only will you be able to streamline operations, but you will also have a chance to build and sustain your business without injecting high cash flow. However, perhaps the most crucial reason for automating and digitalizing your self storage business is to remain competitive in the current landscape.
And yes, you read it right; you don’t need to invest a heavy budget into business expansion if you try to incorporate the latest technologies into your trade. It would also give you relief from manually managing your company’s operations such as booking, marketing, budgeting, etc.
Let us have a look at some technologies that can bring your self-storage facility into the 21st century.
Online Self-Storage Rental Process
You have ordered food, drinks, clothes, gadgets, or whatnot online; now it is time to make use of an online facility for self-storage renters. Customers can book self-storage units online without facing the hassle of commuting to the office and potential health threats. Many notable companies operating in the USA have already introduced online booking services for their clients. So why should storage businesses be left behind?
In the wake of emergencies and pandemics, an online self-storage rental facility is the right step towards earning profits as more and more people are gearing towards making an online reservation and renting a storage unit.
Self-Storage Kiosks
At present, customers find fast and easy solutions for resolving their problems. Based on self-service, kiosks provide a great opportunity as a smart space self storage facility to stay ahead of the competition. Managers have a chance of reducing the work burden by establishing these self storage kiosks.
They offer customers an ultimate level of convenience and freedom as they can access the facility at any time without taking the help of managers. Employing specifically designed software, kiosks are integrated with property management systems. In this way, customers are under constant monitoring, and whatever action they take is ultimately reported and recorded in the databases.
Mobile Apps
Mobile apps are a great source of reaching out to the potential market of millennials who rely on technology in every walk of life. You can utilize mobile apps to give customers access to their self-storage units. Some businesses are launching their mobile apps, thus tapping into the new customer base.
There is no longer a need to keep a record of a designated key or an access card as mobile apps can now give clients access to their storage units with just a few clicks. Self-storage companies can also facilitate their clients by offering the services of starting and renewing leases, updating access codes, and making payments through mobile apps.
Social Media Platforms
Do you have a successful digital marketing strategy in place that can you boost your business? If not, then devise one because digital channels can open up a new revenue stream and client base for your business. You can share posts and pictures with detailed information about your storage facility to raise awareness. Also, you can use social media platforms to announce promotional offers or discounts. These platforms will help you connect and engage existing and new customers.
Robotic Automation
The most exciting news is that robots have entered the realms of the storage business and drastically shaped the dynamics of the industry. On behalf of clients, the Internet of things and robots are storing clients’ possessions in a safe place.
By using autonomous cars, clients can save their belongings anywhere with the help of a built-in map. They are more interactive than kiosks and can connect customers with live advisors who answer their questions. Customers can also digitally sign lease agreements and retrieve locks.
Self-Storage Management Software
Cloud-based software can help you access updated data on every aspect of the business. This software allows you to automate routine tasks such as dispatching maintenance requests, providing insights on customers and financial trends while saving time and money. It acts as a control center by integrating the other technologies for an automated business model.
Flexible Payment Plans
Digital banking channels have made cash transactions convenient and smoother. Now, most consumers don’t want to pay through cash and rely on payment methods like Venmo, PayPal, credit cards, etc. Instead, improve the customer experience of your self-storage facility by introducing online payment services.
By using digital financial tools, customers can pay their bills 24/7. Furthermore, you can send reminders for late-payments and maintain the billings record.
Increased Security
With the help of technology, the security of self storage units has been upgraded. Customers have the advantage of saving their valuables without worrying about the security and damage caused by climate. Several types of technology-driven security protocols are operational in self storage facilities.
Some notable mentions are video monitoring to allow clients to monitor their self storage unit 24/7 through live CCTV footage on their smartphones, smoke detectors that activate sprinklers to prevent fire damage, and biometric devices for increased safety and customers’ pieces of mind.
Final Words
Technology has revolutionized nearly every sector of life and made our lives easier and more efficient. The integration of technology and the latest digital trends into the storage industry can open new avenues of success and revenue.
You must know how to make the most out of the latest technology to make the customer experience more rewarding.
