Ensuring your self-storage facility is operating as effectively as possible is vital in procuring customers to keep that facility running. The key to any successful business is keeping their customers happy, in addition to luring new clients in. Read on to find out about four simple ways you can effectively do this.
1: Provide Business Services
Providing business services caters to the commercial industry, which not only opens a new pool of potential clientele, but also allows for greater profits. Commercial clients are happy to pay small fees for services which make their lives easier or their own company more productive.
A few examples of simple business services you can offer include:
- Accepting business deliveries
- Delivery drop-off to in-house units
- Offering a free moving truck upon purchase of unit
2: Invest in Climate-Controlled Units
Climate-controlled units are a big step above the basic, old-fashioned units seen in most facilities. You can also charge extra for them, as they require a moderate amount of electricity to continue running properly.
Climate-controlled storage units will bring in extra clientele, because sensitive or fragile items can be kept in them with a lower risk of damage. By controlling the climate, you are reducing the risk of mold, mildew, staining, and pests.
3: Offer Auctions
Auctions can help you to recover some of the money you’re out when people skip out on their monthly payments. The way auctions work is incredibly simple. Just follow these basic steps:
- Ensure there is a clause in your contracts which gives a specific timeframe of no-payment prior to the auction of items
- If a unit has gone past that time, advertise an auction online or with flyers on-site
- At the appointed time, allow individuals to bid on the unit
- The person with the highest bid gets the items within the unit, and pay you the amount they offered
Sometimes there is even the potential of making more money than you would have if the original customer had paid their bills. Other times you break even, and sometimes you don’t make back the full amount. Remember it is always better to make back SOMETHING than nothing, so your bottom line is less effected.
4: Utilize Gated Access & Security Cameras
Gated access and security cameras are a sound investment which will quickly pay themselves off. They allow your customers a sense of security in placing their items in your unit.
Gated access means only those with a security pin can enter the area where units are kept. Every person who enters or leaves the unit can be tracked.
Combined with security cameras, this not only makes theft less likely, but ensures you will know exactly who committed theft if it does happen. This makes it more likely your customers will regain possession of their items.
Conclusion
If you utilize one (or better, all) of these simple yet effective techniques, you can ensure your storage units in Anaheim is a smoothly-running operation which effectively caters to your clients’ needs. When your customers are happy with your services, it provides repeat service, higher rental yields, and a business model which is set to sustain the company for years to come.