Have you noticed new storage facilities popping up lately? You’re not alone.
The self storage industry is continuing to experience significant multi-decade growth, driven by a variety of factors such as urbanization, downsizing, and an increased need for space as well as a rapid spike during the COVID pandemic. As market conditions stabilize, this boom is set to continue into 2025.
As the self storage industry continues to grow and consumer expectations shift, so does the need for reliable storage facility access control. Let’s break down why implementing these solutions should be at the top of your list for this year.
Purpose of self storage access control
At its core, the purpose of self storage access control is to secure physical access to spaces, buildings, or sites, limiting access to authorized individuals only.
In the context of self storage facilities, access control enables you to easily and securely manage who has access and when they have access. You can also set restrictions for certain customers or specific areas of the facility. Plus, with access control software, you can monitor activity in real-time and even receive alerts if someone tries to gain unauthorized entry or exit at any time.
Once its primary functions are achieved, the purpose of self storage access control systems can unlock a world of possibilities that extend beyond their traditional scope. For example, for the changing expectations of tech-savvy consumers, access control can pave the way for digitally-enabled experiences that elevate customer satisfaction and streamline operations.
Types of self storage access control
There are various types of self storage access control based on the method of identification. These include:
- Card-based systems: Tenants are required to present a physical card, such as a swipe or proximity card, to a reader device for access to secured areas, like facility gates.
- Key fob systems: Use small, handheld devices that a tenant can present to a reader unlock doors or open gates.
- Pin based systems: Tenants must enter a personal identification number into a keypad reader. This method is often combined with another form of identification for multi-factor authentication.
- Biometric systems: These types of storage facility access control systems rely on unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints, handprints, facial recognition, or eye scans to enter secured spaces.
- Mobile credentials: These systems are a popular type of keyless entry system that allows users to unlock doors or gates using their smartphones or other mobile devices.
Mobile access control for self storage facilities
Providing customers with access credentials to their self storage unit is one of the most important steps in delivering a trusting and secure service. It’s no secret that a common self storage buy-line is ‘you lock it, you keep the key.’ However, when a key can easily go missing or a padlock code forgotten, are you really providing your customers comfort that their valuables are protected?
Access control software determines who has access to your facility and when, while access credentials serve as the authorization that a customer can enter the facility. These modern credentials mean customers can safely and easily gain access to their valuables, day or night.
Offering customers, the ability to choose from a range of credential options, whether proximity card, key fob, or a mobile credential, also gives them the flexibility to pick one that suits their needs. Not only does this provide your renters greater peace of mind that their possessions are safe, it also gives them control over how they access their unit.
The benefits of self storage access control
As self storage businesses become more popular, self storage owners must think beyond security as a means to thwart criminals and vandals. Many modern access control solutions can do much more than protect your property. With access control software, integration opportunities, and a full site self storage security solution, you can provide easy access to your facility while enhancing a customer’s experience with your business. Here are some of the key benefits that come with implementing self storage access control as part of a full site security system:
- Increased efficiency
- Easy access
- Reduced overhead costs
Increased efficiency
Access control software can help streamline the process of managing multiple tenants at once by eliminating manual paperwork and reducing check-in times. This means less time spent managing tenants and more time focusing on other aspects of your business operations.
Additionally, self storage access control systems can integrate with other software platforms, such as CRM, climate control systems, or accounting software, to create an even smoother user experience for you and your customers.
Integrating self storage access control with, BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network) the global data communications standard for building automation and control networks, empowers facilities to leverage data from their access control solution to achieve energy efficiency. For example, when the building is unoccupied, lights can be set to turn off automatically. In addition, building temperature can be set to automatically adjust based on the number of people in a particular area to ensure the environment remains comfortable. This proactive approach not only saves energy but also helps save costs and provide peace of mind to tenants that their valuables and protected from variable temperatures.
Easy access
With self storage access control software, you can provide easy access to tenants while keeping the facility secure. You can set up custom access privileges based on tenant type (e.g., long-term vs short-term) or set specific days or times when certain areas are restricted from entry (e.g., after hours). This ensures that only those who have permission are able to access your facility, while providing maximum convenience for tenants who need quick access whenever they please.
Reduced overhead costs
One of the most significant benefits of implementing a self storage access control solution is that it helps reduce overhead costs associated with managing multiple tenants at once, from reduced staffing needs to fewer incidents requiring police intervention or insurance claims processing.
Utilizing mobile credentials can also reduce costs by removing the need for a site to purchase cards, card printers, and ink or replacing lost keys or cards. For self storage facilities with a significant number of renters, this can result in considerable cost savings.
Factors to consider when choosing an access control system for self storage
Selecting the right access control system for a self storage facility involves careful consideration of various factors that align with the facility's specific needs and goals. Firstly, managers should assess the level of security required based on the types of items stored and the facility's location. For example, facilities in high-crime areas may necessitate more additional security measures, such as self storage perimeter security.
Compatibility with existing systems and technology infrastructure should not be overlooked. Many self storage facilities already have some form of security in place, such as surveillance cameras or alarm systems. When selecting a new access control system, it is crucial to ensure that it can integrate seamlessly with these existing systems. This will not only improve overall security but also streamline operations and reduce the need for significant changes to the facility's current setup.
Another crucial element in choosing an access control system for self storage is its ability to offer digitally-enabled experiences for tenants. This feature not only enhances the convenience and user experience but also provides a significant competitive edge in the market. Facilities that can provide seamless digital interactions, such as mobile app access, real-time notifications, and remote management, are more likely to attract and retain tech-savvy customers who prioritize efficiency and ease of use. Integrating these advanced digital solutions into the access control system can set a facility apart, ensuring it remains a preferred choice for modern consumers.
The future of access control: self storage trends for 2025
Like many other industries, as the self storage industry approaches 2025, it stands on the cusp of a digital transformation. Advancements in technology, combined with an increasing demand for both security and convenience, are creating new opportunities for self storage facilities.
As the industry continues to boom, we can except to see a greater integration of smart technologies. These innovations not only improve security measures but also enable seamless customer experiences making storage services more accessible and user-friendly. As customers become increasingly tech-savvy, there is a rising expectation for seamless and efficient access control solutions. In fact, seven out of ten customers are likely to favor facilities offering digitally-enabled experiences in the coming years.
For self storage facilities aiming to improve security, reduce overhead costs, and enhance energy efficiency, implementing advanced access control systems is crucial. Looking ahead to 2025, the industry is set for substantial evolution, propelled by technological advancements and the growing expectations of modern consumers. Facilities that adopt smart technologies and efficient access control solutions will meet these changing demands and establish themselves as leaders in a rapidly changing market.
By integrating modern access control systems, self storage facilities can ensure a secure, user-friendly experience that will attract and retain a growing customer base, securing their success well into the future.