Did you know that installing kiosks at your self storage facility can make your business 26% more profitable than your competitors?
If you’re considering adopting self storage kiosks at your facility, there is a good chance you could run a highly profitable operation.
However, implementing these kiosks has both advantages and disadvantages, and you must consider them before you commit to installing this technology.
In this article, we’ll explain the pros and cons of providing your customers with a self storage kiosk option for self-service. We’ll also unpack how to install and maximize kiosks for ultimate profitability.
What Is a Self Storage Kiosk?
Source: Freepik
Self storage kiosks are automated, self-service machines located at storage facilities. They’re designed to handle various customer interactions without the need for on-site staff.
Kiosk solutions function similarly to ATMs or ticket kiosks and are a convenient solution for both facility managers and your customers.
The Key Features of Self Storage Kiosks
Source: Freepik
Now that you know what a self storage kiosk is, let’s unpack its key features:
➡️ Renting storage units: Customers can browse available self storage units, view prices, and rent a unit directly from the kiosk.
➡️ Payments: The kiosks allow customers to make rent payments using credit or debit cards or cash, depending on their capabilities.
➡️ Access management: Many kiosks can issue access codes or even key cards for newly rented units, allowing immediate access.
➡️ Contract signing: Digital contract signing features enable customers to complete lease agreements directly at the kiosk.
➡️ Customer support: Some kiosks include video or phone integration so customers can contact support if needed.
The Pros of Self Storage Kiosks
Source: Freepik
Kiosks are transforming the self storage industry, providing many advantages to owners. Let’s unpack the key benefits of implementing kiosks at your facility:
✅ Increased operational efficiency
As mentioned earlier, kiosks streamline facility operations by automating tasks such as unit rentals, payments, and contract management.
This automation reduces the need for constant on-site staff presence, allowing your facility to operate more efficiently.
The kiosk can handle multiple customer interactions at once, minimizing bottlenecks during busy periods and improving the speed of the service you provide.
Kiosks also optimize resource allocation by freeing up staff for other responsibilities, such as maintenance or marketing.
✅ Cost savings
A significant benefit of self storage kiosks for facility owners is that they reduce operational costs.
As mentioned above, kiosks lower the need for full-time staff at your facility by automating tasks typically handled by employees. Over time, this can lead to major savings on salaries, employee benefits, and training expenses.
Additionally, the 24/7 availability of these kiosks—which I’ll discuss later in this article—allows for extended operational hours without additional labor costs, providing a higher return on investment (ROI).
✅ Enhanced customer experience
Self storage kiosks provide customers with a seamless, user-friendly experience.
The ability to rent units, make payments, and access their stored items anytime—without waiting for assistance—improves customer satisfaction.
This convenience could potentially attract more tenants, particularly those who prefer self-service options.
✅ Improved security
These kiosks are often equipped with security features such as integrated cameras, secure payment processing, and encrypted data handling.
These features enhance the overall security of transactions and your facility itself.
✅ 24/7 availability for self storage customers
Another standout advantage of self storage kiosks is their ability to provide round-the-clock service.
Customers can rent units, pay bills, or resolve issues outside of regular office hours, potentially increasing your facility’s appeal to busy customers.
For owners, this expanded availability can lead to higher occupancy rates and increased revenue without requiring additional staff.
The Cons of Self Storage Kiosks
Source: Freepik
As you can see, self storage kiosks have many advantages, but they’re not without their drawbacks. Before implementing this technology at your facility, you must carefully consider the potential challenges. Let’s take a closer look at some of these disadvantages:
❌ High initial investment costs
One of the most significant drawbacks of self storage kiosks is the upfront cost. The typical price range for a standard self-service kiosk is between $1,500 and $5,000.
Purchasing and installing a kiosk, particularly one with advanced features like touchscreens, payment processing, and integration with property management software, can be expensive.
This expense can strain your budget, especially if you’re running a smaller facility. It can also be a challenging investment if you’re operating on tight margins.
Additionally, the ROI may take time to materialize, particularly if you’re located in an area with a lower demand for self storage services.
❌ Maintenance and technical issues
Self storage kiosks require regular maintenance to ensure proper operation. Hardware malfunctions, software glitches, and connectivity issues can disrupt customer transactions and lead to dissatisfaction.
You may need to hire technicians or contact service providers to address these problems, adding ongoing costs.
Additionally, unplanned outages can harm your business’s reputation and result in lost revenue if customers are unable to access services when needed.
❌ Limited human interaction
While some customers prefer self-service options, others value the personal touch of interacting with staff.
A kiosk can’t offer the same level of empathy, advice, or problem-solving as a human could.
This lack of human interaction can deter customers who need assistance understanding rental terms, resolving issues, or choosing the right unit for their needs.
This could lead to lower customer satisfaction and retention rates among those who prefer traditional service.
❌ Limited problem-solving capabilities
While kiosks are great for handling routine tasks, they lack the ability to address complex customer issues.
For example, if a customer disputes a charge to their credit card or encounters a unique problem, the kiosk will likely not be able to provide a resolution.
In this case, the customer would need to contact support, potentially delaying a solution and reducing the convenience factor that kiosks are supposed to provide.
❌ Space considerations
Self storage kiosks require space for installation, which can be a challenge for smaller facilities with limited square footage.
The kiosk must be placed in an accessible, secure, and visible location, which may require you to reconfigure your facility’s layout. Poor placement or design can detract from your facility’s overall customer experience.
How Storage Operators Can Install Self-Service Kiosks
Source: Freepik
Installing self storage kiosks involves careful planning, strategic placement, and ongoing optimization. Below is a guide to help you effectively implement self storage kiosks:
👉 Assess your facility’s needs and objectives
Before installing kiosks, evaluate your specific requirements and goals. Determine whether the kiosks will supplement your on-site staff or operate as a standalone solution.
Consider the services you want the kiosk to handle, such as unit rentals, payment processing, or gate access.
👉 Choose the right kiosk system
Research and select a kiosk provider with features aligned with your business needs. Look for options that integrate seamlessly with your existing management software to streamline your operations.
Key features to consider include:
➡️ Touchscreen interfaces for user-friendly integration.
➡️ Secure payment processing systems.
➡️ Multilanguage support for diverse customer bases.
➡️ Remote monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities.
👉 Plan strategic placement
Ensure you position your kiosks in highly visible, accessible areas of your facility for maximum usage.
Ideal locations include near your main entrance, within the office lobby, or at the front gate.
Ensure your chosen kiosk solution is waterproof and equipped with adequate lighting for nighttime use.
You should also consider privacy when it comes to placement, as customers will be entering payment details and personal information.
👉 Install the supporting infrastructure
You’ll need to ensure your facility has the necessary infrastructure to support your kiosks. This includes:
➡️ A stable internet connection for seamless operation.
➡️ Reliable power supply with backup options to minimize downtime.
➡️ Integration with security systems such as cameras and gate access.
👉 Provide clear signage and instructions
Once you’ve installed your kiosks, add clear signage within your facility directing customers to them.
You’ll also want to include step-by-step instructions on using the kiosk and contact information for technical support if needed. This will help new users feel comfortable with the technology and reduce their reliance on staff for assistance.
Maximizing the Use of Self Storage Kiosks
Source: Freepik
There are several ways you can get the most out of your investment in self storage kiosks.
💡 Promote the kiosk to customers
To encourage customers to use your kiosks, highlight its benefits in your marketing efforts.
Emphasize the convenience of 24/7 access, the ability to make quick payments, and self-service features for renting units without waiting for staff.
You can include information about the kiosk on your website, in email newsletters, and on social media.
💡 Integrate with online and mobile platforms
You can enhance your kiosk’s utility by integrating it with your online and mobile systems.
For example, customers who reserve units online should be able to complete the rental process at the kiosk.
This seamless transition ensures a consistent, user-friendly experience across all touchpoints.
💡 Use analytics to monitor performance
Most kiosk systems include analytics tools that track usage patterns, peak activity times, and customer interactions.
Review this data regularly to identify areas for improvement, such as adding more kiosks during busy periods or addressing common user issues.
Analytics can also help you understand customer preferences and refine your service offerings.
💡 Offer support for non-tech-savvy customers
Although kiosks simplify many tasks, some customers may find the technology intimidating or confusing to use.
This is why you should provide access to support, such as a video call feature that connects customers to help. Alternatively, you can display a phone number or QR code linking to instructional videos.
💡 Combine kiosks with other automation tools
Maximize the efficiency of your facility by pairing kiosks with other automated systems. For example, you could:
➡️ Use automated gates that customers can open via the kiosk.
➡️ Implement remote monitoring tools to manage the kiosk and security systems from anywhere.
➡️ Integrate kiosks with customer relationship management (CRM) systems to update customer data automatically after each interaction.
💡 Regularly update and maintain your kiosks
Schedule regular maintenance for your kiosks to ensure long-term effectiveness. Keep the software up to date to enhance functionality and security.
Ensure you clean the machines frequently and address hardware issues promptly to prevent downtime and maintain a positive customer experience.
Make the Rental Process Practically Hands-Free with Stora
Self storage kiosks can increase operational efficiency, save money, and enhance the customer experience.
However, they can also be a huge upfront investment, require regular maintenance, and lack the human touch staff can provide.
With an all-in-one self storage management solution like Stora, you can automate your entire facility, providing a seamless customer experience while taking a hands-off approach.
Our software allows customers to book units on your website 24/7, access their units anytime with a code or app, and manage their facilities without you having to have on-site staff.
Using Stora means you can enhance your operations, satisfy your customers, and get access to rich analytics to run your facility more efficiently.
Book a demo to see how simple it can be to run your self storage facility.