In these high-tech times, people looking to rent a self storage unit want instantaneous information and action. A new, online booking system released by RapidStor specifically for the self storage industry offers customers real-time prices for units and gives them the option of an immediate move-in.
Just released by Centreforce Technology of Strathpine, Queensland, Australia, the company spent nine months writing a program that would use Application Programming Interface (API) from SiteLink Web Edition self storage management software to access real-time data. To complete the move-in feature, RapidStor interacts with the SiteLink API and the facility’s database. Tasks include acceptance of the storage agreement, payment processing, e-mail invoicing and updating the facility software. An added benefit id customers pay their first month’s rent at full price at the time of move-in.
“Self-storage has moved rapidly to the Web from traditional media like the Yellow Pages, and operators have had to rethink how they do business. The leaders of the industry have invested in new technology to harness this consumer change in buying practices,” said Dallas Dogger, Centreforce managing director.
Using high-level inscription, customers are protected by the system which includes security features for the customer’s identity and credit card details. The procedure is hosted on Centreforce’s PCI DSS-compliant servers. Online payments are processed by payment partner ADVAM. Sites that use the technology enjoy low, non-commissioned fees.
The website of Capital Self Storage in Mitchell, Australian Capital Territory, Australia was first to use RapidStor. The facility received its first online move-in within 20 minutes of going live. Since implementation in March, more than 70 reservations and move-ins have been completed using RapidStor.
“Our website and the RapidStor procedure employed by Centreforce, combined with SiteLink, have given us the tools we must have to service our growing customer base … The RapidStor feature is an essential part of our business,” said Ian Oliver, director of Capital Self Storage.
“Clients find the process a lot quicker when they come to move in,” added facility manager Kevin Reilly. “They have done the hard work before they get to the office.”
Sources Used:
“Centreforce Technology Releases RapidStor Online Booking System.” Inside Self-Storage. July 29, 2011.
Centreforce Technology. July 2011.