Self storage operators are always looking out for new innovations to improve their business. Lately that has centered around web technology, such as improving a ranking on search engines, implementing a social media presence or hooking up with an online booking search engine. But sometimes operators need only look at the basic elements of their self storage facility to make improvements. A rising star on the self storage scene is hinged and sealed doors replacing the traditional roll-up doors.
This trend has become apparent as more customers seek an enhancement to climate-controlled and humidity-controlled units, especially with sensitive items such as wine, wardrobe and guns. These doors are particularly important for storage facilities located in areas of the country prone to dust storms where dirt can leech into units and ruin sensitive items.
Sam Livingston, owner of two Climate Self Storage stores in the northeast region of Texas uses hinged doors with weather stripping to give added protection to the valuables his customers store.
"They're sealed so they keep the mice and bugs out, but more importantly, they keep the dirt out during the windy season," Livingston said. "So far they have been received very well. When it is windy, those roll-up door units will be filled up with dust. We tell people that if you want to protect your stuff, you need a sealed door."
Most customers are impressed by the added protection of the doors on the units, said Chris Sutton who works at the store’s Marcus Uribe location.
"When we offer a sealed door and a rolled-up door, they'll pick a sealed door nine out of 10 times," Sutton said. "They are very shocked that it is still clean (inside) after two or three months."
Livingston believes that just as climate controlled units became a trend in the self storage industry, hinged and sealed doors are the next step.
"The big customer we are targeting is the seasonal customer," Livingston said. "They can literally put their winter clothes in a box or hang them up and bring them in. We can guarantee you that your stuff will be clean because (hinged doors) have the sealing. That's what we are about, letting people have an option."
Sources Used:
Bracamontes, Aaron. “New Locations Offer Latest Storage Protection.” El Paso Times. March 28, 2011.
“The Ups and Downs of Self Storage Doors.” SelfStorageGuide.com. Oct. 2010.