Renting Self-Storage Units Online: Streamlining the Process for Your Tenants

As technology continues to revolutionize various industries, the self-storage sector is embracing online rental platforms to provide a more convenient and efficient experience for tenants. Offering online rental options not only enhances the customer experience but also streamlines operations for property managers.

Why Online Rentals Are Important

Online rental options for self-storage units have become the industry standard. The convenience this offers to your tenants is undeniable – they can browse available units, compare pricing, and even sign contracts from the comfort of their own homes. Additionally, this system saves you time and effort, reducing paperwork and simplifying the rental process. However, it's important to choose a reliable self-storage software that won't overcharge for this straightforward service. Vendors may charge fees for monthly subscriptions, setup services, and transaction fees, so it's crucial to compare options and understand the costs involved.

Options for Setting Up Online Rentals

There are several ways to offer online rentals for your self-storage units, depending on your current setup:

If you are already using a property management system: Ask your vendor whether they offer online booking. Many suppliers have added this feature over the past few years to cater to the rising demand for online rentals. If you do not have a self-storage management software: Look for a reliable self-storage software that includes an online booking feature. In the United States, StorEDGE is a popular choice, but if you're based in another country, research systems that cover your region. If you prefer not to change your management system: You can still add online rental capabilities to your website without connecting it to your booking system. However, this approach may require you to manually update your available units, which is not ideal. While this is a viable option, it's worth considering it as a temporary measure.

Real-World Example: We Place For Your Stuff

We Place For Your Stuff introduced the online feature five years ago and was the first to do so in St. Albert. This initiative was driven by the desire to enhance customers' convenience, allowing them to save time and spend more valuable time with family and friends.

Advanced Mobile Checkout and Self-Service Capabilities

Beyond simply renting units online, self-storage facilities can also be set up to operate with minimal human interaction. Self-storage providers can offer a range of advanced services, including:

Document kiosks: Tenants can fill out their documents at a computer station, streamlining the rental process. Vending machines: Let tenants purchase locks using a credit card from a vending machine, making the process even more convenient. Keypad access: Instead of traditional keys, tenants can enter and leave the facility by using a keypad, which is both secure and efficient.

While not every self-storage provider may be interested in this level of automation, these sophisticated features demonstrate the incredible advancements in the industry.

Conclusion

By embracing online rental options for self-storage units, you can provide a more streamlined and convenient experience for your tenants. Whether you choose to update your current property management system or integrate online booking into your website, the benefits are clear. Not only will this enhance tenant satisfaction, but it will also save you time and effort in managing your self-storage business.