Struggling to keep your self-storage units occupied? You’re not alone! Many facility owners face challenges when it comes to filling units and maintaining steady income. At Empowered Self Storage Consulting & Management, we specialize in helping storage businesses increase occupancy rates and maximize revenue. Here are proven strategies to help you boost occupancy and grow your business.
1. Understand Your Market & Competitors
Before making changes, it’s essential to know where you stand in the local market.
✅ Analyze competitor pricing and services to ensure you are competitive
✅ Identify customer needs—security, accessibility, climate control
✅ Adjust your offerings to meet local demand
Tip: Offering unique services (like 24/7 access or climate-controlled units) can give you a competitive edge.
2. Offer Competitive and Flexible Pricing
Attract tenants with smart pricing and value.
✅ Use dynamic pricing to adjust rates based on demand and occupancy
✅ Offer move-in discounts (e.g., first month free or reduced rates for the first 3 months)
✅ Provide referral rewards to current tenants who bring in new renters
Tip: Promotions and flexible leases can help fill empty units quickly.
3. Improve Your Online Presence
Today, most tenants search online before renting a unit. Make sure you’re easy to find!
✅ Optimize your website with local SEO (e.g., “self-storage near [City]”)
✅ List your facility on Google My Business, Yelp, Bing, and storage directories
✅ Use professional photos and virtual tours to showcase your facility
Tip: A user-friendly website that allows online booking can significantly increase conversions.
4. Invest in Digital Marketing & Paid Ads
Targeted marketing helps reach potential tenants directly.
✅ Run Google Ads and social media ads targeting your local area
✅ Use remarketing campaigns to re-engage visitors who didn’t book initially
✅ Highlight promotions, security features, and unique services in ads
Tip: Regular online ads keep your facility top-of-mind for local customers.
5. Focus on Customer Service and Tenant Experience
Happy tenants stay longer and refer others.
✅ Train staff to be friendly, responsive, and knowledgeable
✅ Offer easy communication channels (phone, email, live chat)
✅ Provide a seamless move-in and payment process (including online payments)
Tip: Personal touches like a welcome packet or thank-you email can make a big difference.
6. Enhance Facility Appearance and Security
A clean, safe, and well-maintained facility attracts more tenants.
✅ Regularly maintain and clean units, driveways, and common areas
✅ Install 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and strong lighting
✅ Advertise your security features to give peace of mind to potential renters
Tip: First impressions matter—curb appeal can influence a renter’s decision.
7. Build Local Partnerships & Community Relations
Community connections can generate valuable referrals.
✅ Partner with local movers, real estate agents, apartment managers
✅ Offer discounts to students, military personnel, and businesses
✅ Sponsor local events or charities to raise brand visibility
Tip: Word-of-mouth and partnerships can provide a steady stream of tenants.
8. Add Value with Extra Services
Go beyond basic storage to meet more tenant needs.
✅ Sell packing supplies, boxes, locks, and tape
✅ Offer truck rentals or moving assistance
✅ Provide climate-controlled units for sensitive items
Tip: Value-added services can differentiate you from competitors and justify premium pricing.
9. Collect and Showcase Positive Reviews
Online reviews are critical for gaining trust.
✅ Encourage satisfied tenants to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook
✅ Respond professionally to all reviews, including negative ones
✅ Feature testimonials on your website and marketing materials
Tip: A high rating builds credibility and attracts hesitant renters.
10. Track and Measure Performance
You can’t improve what you don’t measure.
✅ Regularly review occupancy rates, revenue, and marketing performance
✅ Use self-storage management software to analyze trends
✅ Adjust strategies based on what’s working and what’s not
Tip: Stay flexible and ready to pivot as needed based on market changes.
Final Thoughts
Improving occupancy rates is an ongoing effort that requires a mix of marketing, customer service, and operational excellence. By following these strategies, you can ensure your facility stays full, profitable, and competitive in today’s market.
Need help implementing these strategies?
👉 Contact Empowered Self Storage Consulting & Management today for expert consulting and management services!
