The Storage Industry Blog

Everything you need to know to manage your facilities smoothly in a changing world.

Ways to Improve Tenant Retention

Tenant retention starts with creating a self storage experience that is easy, secure, clean, and convenient for renters. This blog shares practical ways facility owners can reduce turnover, improve tenant satisfaction, and encourage renters to stay longer.

How to Handle Lockouts

This blog explains how self storage facility owners can handle tenant lockouts/overlocks in a consistent, well-documented, and legally compliant way. It covers when to consider overlocking, why tenant communication matters, and how rental agreements, local regulations, and proper documentation help protect the business.

How to Manage a Self Storage Facility Remotely

Managing a self storage facility remotely is possible with the right combination of software, online rentals, easy payment options, automated communication, and regular reporting. By creating clear processes and planning for necessary on-site tasks, owners can reduce daily involvement while still staying connected to their business. Unit Trac helps make remote management easier by giving owners one system to manage tenants, payments, units, reports, and day-to-day operations.

How to Choose the Right Payment Options for Your Tenants

This blog highlights the value of convenient methods like online payments, autopay, card payments, and ACH while also noting the importance of security, cost, and flexibility. With the right mix of payment options and management software, facilities can reduce late payments, improve cash flow, and create a smoother tenant experience.

Is Portable Storage a Good Way to Expand Your Business?

Portable storage can give self storage owners a practical way to expand their business, reach new customers, and create an additional revenue stream without immediately building more traditional units. This blog explores the benefits, challenges, and key planning considerations involved, including delivery logistics, upfront costs, maintenance, insurance, local rules, and how to test demand before fully committing.

How to Set Up a Google Business Profile

This guide explains how self storage facility owners can create or claim a Google Business Profile so customers can find them on Google Search and Google Maps. It walks through the basics of adding accurate business information, verifying the profile, uploading photos, and avoiding common setup issues.

Prepare Your Storage Facility for Busy Season

Busy season can be a major opportunity for self-storage owners, but preparation is key to making the most of increased demand. This blog covers practical ways to get ready, including reviewing unit availability, cleaning the property, updating pricing and promotions, improving your website, simplifying move-ins, and using management software to stay organized.

How Self Storage Associations Help Your Business

State self storage associations provide owners with critical support through advocacy, education, and industry connections that help protect and grow their businesses. From navigating changing regulations to reducing costs and improving operations, membership offers practical tools and insights. For storage operators looking to stay competitive, joining an association is a smart, strategic move.

Key Elements of a Strong Self Storage Rental Agreement

A comprehensive rental agreement helps self storage operators set clear expectations, protect their facility, and reduce disputes with tenants. This blog covers key sections every self storage agreement should include, from payment terms and prohibited items to lien rights, insurance, and move-out procedures, plus why it’s important to work with an attorney or state self storage association.

Is a Self-Storage Business Right for You? What to Know Before You Start

Starting a self-storage business can be a profitable opportunity, but success depends on careful planning, smart location selection, and a clear understanding of your market. This guide walks through key considerations like permitting, supply and demand, and realistic startup costs to help you make informed decisions.