Using records storage companies in self storage

[Mel Holsinger]

Has anyone had any experience teaming up with a records storage company to help build business occupancy? I do not want to convert my entire facility but feel that by having a limited amount of this business type I could add value to my facility?

Thank you

[SelfStorageMgmt]

I have done some research into records mgmt and thought like you are...that teaming up with an existing operator would have opportunities. What I discovered is the major operators do not sub contract for storage space. They are making many times the storage RPSF by maximizing cubic footage.

You can get into the business by either converting 10x10's with shelving and renting to one tenant to be self administered. Or, opening space and shelving on your own for individual box rentals. You will need software (O'Neil is probably the best) and scanners. This alone drives up the start up costs. Don't forget you will need a pick and delivery vehicle as well.

I know there are some folks out there consulting on records mgmt start up in storage, and there are a lot of articles being written.

[Mel Holsinger]

thank you, I am looking into this further.

[ColleenK]

Using records storage companies in self storage

We have had a records storage company as our customer for approx. 4 years and they are great! They are in and out of our facility almost daily, but we hardly notice them. They are not at all demanding. This company manages their own files so we are only involved with storage, not in retrieving or taking possession of files.

In these somewhat more difficult times, customer retention has become even more important. So to keep these kinds of valuable customers, we are offering to sweep around the inside of their door when they are in the unit. Also, as a Christmas present to the company, I purchased a vacuum that hang's on the back and has a wand so that our maintenance man can vacuum around things inside the units such as theirs. I have offered this service to our long-term customers, and although they rarely use the service, they are most appreciative that we offer it...it shows we care.

Having record storage companies is a great idea, Mel.