Top 3 Time-Saving Solutions for Self-Storage Automation
Even for small operators, or maybe even especially for small operators, having the right technology solution is crucial for continued success. The self-storage industry has changed a lot in recent years. Demand is at an all-time high, but for the first time, the majority of demand comes from the Millennial and Gen-Z generations - people who grew up in the digital age. These days, it's all about making your business accessible on a mobile device. Everything happens on a smartphone's small screen, be it browsing, shopping, or renting. Typically, these solutions make life easier not only for self-storage customers but for operators too. They take over, automate many repetitive tasks, and free up staff and managers to look after other matters. Our experience of over two decades in the industry shows that more digitally integrated operators can react and adapt faster to changes in the industry environment. For example, thinking back to the early 2020s when suddenly everything had to become "socially distanced", operators who already had implemented self-checkout, automatic access control, and self-storage management software had a much easier time serving existing customers and attracting new ones.
We want to introduce three solutions that help save time, make your business more attractive to the modern consumer, and ensure lasting success.
Cloud-Based Management Software
As the name suggests, cloud-based management software lets you run your self-storage business from anywhere. Instead of spreadsheets and paper records, this solution consolidates all important aspects of the business into one central, easy-to-use platform. It can automate various functions such as aggregating customer data, invoicing, billing, inventory management, etc. Cloud-based means that operators can access it from anywhere, and the facility can run with less or no staff on site.
For example, instead of manually generating, sending out, and tracking invoices, the management system does it automatically. If an invoice remains unpaid, the system sends out reminders and applies late fees based on rules set by the operator. If the facility has smart locks, it can even revoke access until the outstanding amount is settled. Additionally, the software integrates with the accounting system, eliminating the need for manual entry while ensuring the accuracy of records.
With daily reporting features, you'll always be up-to-date on the status of your business. Self-storage operators track key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor operations, and the software provides customizable dashboards that are automatically updated at regular intervals. This is especially useful for making informed decisions on pricing and promotions, which can also be adjusted directly through the management platform. Of course, these solutions are designed to integrate with other important systems, like access control, security, payment gateway, or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software.
Self-storage is a cyclical business. Maintaining the right staff presence during peak and low demand times can be challenging. Since self-storage software takes over a lot of manual labor, even when demand peaks, the same team can manage it easily. On top of being a time-saving tool, management software helps reduce risk because it brings the potential for human error to a minimum. All automated tasks run based on rules and triggers that management defines when setting them up.
Automated Customer Support Tools
Effective communication and quick response times are key to maintaining competitive advantage in self-storage. Because the offer is homogenous, customers decide based on location, price, and ease of use. The early bird catches the worm, or the customer in this instance: The operator that makes it easiest to sign up or replies to the customer inquiry the fastest is the most successful one in converting new leads. But, for smaller operators, maintaining 24/7 staff for customer service isn't practical or cost-effective. The solution here, too, is automation. With artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbot technology advancements, self-storage businesses can now offer round-the-clock support. These tools can manage common customer inquiries quickly and efficiently, ensuring your business remains responsive even after hours. Chatbots can handle a variety of topics, including minor emergencies. For example, if a customer has difficulty deciding on a unit size or forgot their access code, they need to reset it.
Online Booking and Check-out
Of course, AI-enhanced chatbots can provide much more value than just answering customer inquiries. They can guide the customer through the signup and booking process, collect relevant information and the eSiganture to finalize the lease agreement. They can be deployed on the website or on popular messaging apps like WhatsApp or Instagram. When a customer comes across an ad for self-storage, an AI chat assistant can proactively reach out. When implemented correctly, the conversion rates can be increased significantly. These tools emphasize low effort and convenience for the customer to convince them to sign up at the first point of contact.
Even if a self-storage business does not opt for AI-assisted messaging, online booking is a must in the industry these days. Long gone are the days when customers made phone inquiries and needed a trained representative to close the sale. If the booking portal is integrated with the self-storage software, the customer can see all available unit types and select the preferred one. One of the biggest struggles customers experience when choosing self-storage is unit size selection. However, practical tools like storage calculators can help customers visualize how much any given unit type will hold and which is most suitable. They can sign the lease online and receive the access details via email when their move-in day approaches.
By implementing these time-saving automation solutions, your self-storage business can meet the growing demand, streamline operations, and focus on growth while ensuring customer satisfaction. Adopting the right technology is the key to working less and earning more in the digital age.
