Automated Self-Storage: Blueprint for Work Less, Earn More
Learn How Automation Can Help You Cut Costs and Reduce Your Workload
The self-storage industry is rapidly transforming, and automation is critical to staying competitive. It used to be something only large self-storage chains could afford. But today, even small, independent operators can benefit from it. Whether you run a single facility or several, implementing automated systems allows you to operate with greater efficiency and minimal manual intervention while benefiting from lower labor costs. Essentially, you work less while earning more and having room to scale up. In this guide, we'll explain our blueprint for automation in self-storage.
Automating Daily Operations
Smart Access Control Systems, Automated Payments and Billing
Traditional locks and keys require manual involvement, but with smart access control systems, customers can enter their units using a code, a token, or even their smartphone. You can manage entry remotely, ensuring that even if customers have trouble accessing the unit or fall behind on payments, you can respond quickly and without needing staff to be present on location.
Automating payments ensures invoices are sent on time, late fees are applied automatically, and you spend less time chasing unpaid balances. This helps maintain consistent cash flow, eliminates the risk of human error, and reduces administrative burdens.
Our platform integrates seamlessly with systems you may already use, such as PTI, NOKE, and Stripe, making it easy to upgrade without overhauling your entire operation.
Customer Support and Lead Generation with AI
With AI-powered chatbots and automated customer service tools, you can offer 24/7 support without having a team always there. Chatbots can handle frequently asked questions, assist with unit bookings, and guide potential customers through the process. Only problems that require a human agent to intervene will be escalated. As a result, you can manage more inquiries with a faster response time without having to hire additional staff.
Moreover, automated marketing and lead-generating tools can increase your facility's occupancy rate and profit margins. These tools can send personalized follow-up emails to potential customers who haven't completed their bookings, helping to convert more leads into paying tenants. They can also predict customer churn, suggest corrective actions, and identify customers with the most upsell potential.
Independent Operator Platform
Automation in self-storage affects every aspect of the business. It is crucial to have a scalable IT solution that either covers everything or integrates with existing solutions. Our Blueprint for this is our Independent Operator Platform – the customized solution for operators who want to run their self-storage with less hassle. It combines 4 crucial components:
Our platform combines four essential components, each engineered to streamline different aspects of your business:
Website: A robust, SEO-optimized website that supports your marketing activities, ensuring potential customers find you easily. From promotions to lead generation, your website becomes a critical tool for attracting new tenants and boosting occupancy.
Online Booking: Simplify the customer journey with a fully automated booking system. This includes online reservations, requests for quotes (RfQs), and digital lease agreements (eSign), allowing customers to book units and sign contracts from the comfort of their homes.
Management Portal: The portal helps you manage all day-to-day operations easily. It oversees invoicing, administration, and reporting in one place, giving you complete visibility into your business performance and allowing for streamlined decision-making.
Customer Portal: Enhance customer satisfaction with a dedicated portal for managing accounts. The portal handles everything from billing and payment history to lease details and support, ensuring your customers have 24/7 access to their account information and can resolve issues independently.
The platform integrates with other solutions you might already be using, like NOKE or PTI for security and access control and Stripe as your payment gateway. It can be implemented with minimal disturbance to your business operations. After some training, you and your staff will be able to use it easily.
Expertise You Can Trust
Our team has over 20 years of experience specializing in self-storage technology. We understand the needs of independent operators like you, and we've built our platform specifically to help small businesses succeed. With our experience, we know what works and are here to guide you every step of the way. Automation is the future of self-storage, and we firmly believe that fully automated facilities will soon become the norm in the Australian market.