Did you know that Storage & Warehouse Leasing will have a $26.9 billion market size in 2022, according to sales?
Consider that self-storage of goods and items has been growing steadily since the mid-1970s and shows no sign of stopping. All of that new demand translates into significant business opportunities for you.
You’ll have to work at it and be creative to be successful, but the result can be well worth it. Are you ready to learn more about https://storagex.com.au and how to start a storage unit business? If so, keep reading for everything you need to know.
Market Your Business
Identify your target audience and craft a marketing strategy that resonates with them. There are several ways to reach your target market, including online advertising, PR, and content marketing.
You can visit The Storage Agency first to learn more about web marketing to help you get leads for your storage unit business.
Once you’ve identified your target market, it’s important to create a storage unit marketing strategy that speaks to their specific needs. There are many ways to market your storage unit business online, including paid advertising, PR, and content marketing.
Paid advertising can be a great way to reach your target market, but it’s necessary to keep your ads relevant and targeted to avoid wasting money. PR and content marketing are also great ways to reach your target market and build brand awareness.
You can also start by creating a website and listing your business in online directories. Create a social media page for your business and interact with potential customers online.
Then distribute flyers and brochures to local businesses and post them in public places. You can offer discounts or special rates to customers who refer new customers to your business.
Investigate Your Zoning
You must investigate your zoning to see if this type of business is allowed. Check with your local zoning office or city hall to find out if storage units are permitted to use in your zone.
They should be able to give you a straight answer and may even have information on what zoning classification you need to be in to run this type of business. If storage units are not allowed in your current zoning, you may apply for a variance or special exception.
This is a process where you request permission from the city to use your property for something that is not normally allowed. The city will consider your request and decide if it is a good fit for the neighborhood.
Decide What Type of Storage Units
You will need to decide what type of storage units you want to offer based on your property size, location, and target market. If you have a large property, you could offer a mix of different storage unit sizes.
If you are located near a college, you could target students and offer smaller storage units for their dorm room items. Here’s a look at some of the most commonly offered storage unit types to help you decide which is right for your business:
Basic Storage Units
Basic storage units are the most inexpensive to build and maintain, but they offer the least in terms of amenities and climate control. These units are typically just large, unheated, and uninsulated sheds with roll-up doors.
They’re ideal for storing items that don’t need to be protected from the elements, such as lawn equipment, patio furniture, and sports equipment.
Climate-controlled Storage Units
Climate-controlled storage units are more expensive to build and maintain, but they offer a higher level of protection for stored items. These units are typically built with insulated walls and ceilings and are equipped with heating and cooling units.
They’re ideal for storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, such as electronics, musical instruments, and photographs.
Indoor and Outdoor Storage Units
Indoor storage units can be a great option for customers who need to store sensitive items or who simply prefer the convenience of an indoor unit. It can range from small units of just a few square feet to large units that are several hundred square feet.
Outdoor storage units are one of the most popular types of storage units for businesses. They are typically less expensive than indoor storage units, and they offer several benefits for businesses.
Obtain the Necessary Insurance and Licenses
Before you can open for storage business, you must obtain the necessary insurance and licenses. Insurance will protect you and your business in an accident or natural disaster. You will need to get a business license from your city or county.
If you plan to store hazardous materials, get a special license.
Set up a Payment System
While you could charge by the month, many storage unit businesses offer discounts for longer-term rentals.
You’ll need to decide what method of payment you want to accept (cash, check, credit card) and then set up a system that will allow you to track and manage payments.
Regardless of which system you choose, communicate your payment terms to your storage unit clients, so there are no surprises.
Manage The Facility
Make sure that the property is secure, with a fence or wall around the perimeter and a gate that can be locked. You will also need to have security cameras installed and an alarm system.
Inside the storage units, keep the units clean and organized and label them clearly so that customers can easily find the items they are looking for. Finally, provide customer service that is friendly and efficient to keep your customers happy and coming back.
This Is How to Start A Storage Unit Business
Now that you know how to start a storage unit business, it’s time to get started. Remember to investigate your zoning first, then decide what type of storage units you want to offer, obtain the necessary insurance and licenses, market it, set up a payment system, and manage the facility. Use your property to create a storage unit that meets your business and customers’ needs.
With planning and a lot of hard work, you can be successful in this business.
For more ideas and helpful tips, check out the rest of our site.