Smart Tech, Smart Profits: How AI Is Revolutionizing Self-Storage Operations and Revenue

The self-storage industry is in the midst of a digital transformation. While traditional operational excellence remains essential, forward-thinking operators are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technology to boost profitability, improve customer experience, and gain a competitive edge.

This shift isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maximizing every square foot of rentable space while reducing operational costs and enhancing customer trust.

AI Is Changing the Game for Self-Storage Operators

AI has evolved from a buzzword to a bottom-line booster. One of the most impactful uses of AI in self-storage is in automation and analytics. Companies like AI Lean are leading the way in streamlining the lien and auction process. By using predictive analytics and automated outreach, operators can accelerate recovery efforts, reduce manual workload, and improve cash flow. AI-powered lien management systems identify at-risk tenants early, enabling facility managers to take proactive action before accounts become problematic.

Storage Asset Management (SAM), one of the industry's largest third-party management companies, is also leveraging AI tools to refine their marketing strategies, streamline call center operations, and offer data-backed performance insights across their extensive portfolio. This allows SAM to fine-tune operations and drive consistency at scale.

Smart Unit Monitoring: A New Revenue Stream

Smart technology isn’t just behind the scenes—it’s also enhancing what tenants see and experience. Leading operators like The Jenkins Organization, Cubix Asset Management, and Storage Asset Management are implementing smart unit monitoring systems from providers like StorageDefender. These systems use motion sensors, temperature monitoring, and real-time alerts to give tenants peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their belongings.

The result? Higher customer satisfaction, reduced churn, and the ability to charge a premium for "smart" units—creating a new revenue tier in the facility’s pricing structure. In fact, StorageDefender’s technology is being used not only to boost security but also to differentiate properties in crowded markets where innovation matters.

Operational Intelligence: Data-Driven Decision Making

AI enables operators to make smarter, faster decisions. Cubix Asset Management, known for its hands-on approach and detailed market analysis, utilizes AI-driven dashboards to track rental trends, lead conversions, and facility performance in real time. These insights are instrumental in identifying underperforming assets, adjusting marketing tactics, and optimizing pricing strategies.

The value of real-time data extends to mystery shopping as well. The Storage Business Owners Alliance (SBOA) recently launched an AI-powered mystery shopping initiative that evaluates how self-storage facilities handle inbound calls. By using conversational AI to simulate prospect interactions and provide objective scoring, operators receive data-driven feedback on team performance, responsiveness, and sales techniques. This innovative approach helps facilities improve customer service and increase conversion rates without relying on subjective human evaluations.

The benefits of integrating AI and smart technology in self-storage are clear:

• Enhanced operational efficiency through automation and predictive tools
• Improved customer experience with smart unit features and personalized service
• Data-backed decision making that replaces guesswork with precision
• Increased revenue through new premium features and smarter pricing strategies
• Reduced overhead by automating repetitive, manual tasks

Forward-looking operators like The Jenkins Organization, SAM, and Cubix are already proving that investing in technology today leads to stronger financial performance tomorrow.

Want to Learn More?

If you're ready to take a deeper dive into how these tools are shaping the future of self-storage, don't miss the upcoming webinar:

“Show Me the Money: How to Leverage AI and Smart Technology” — featuring industry leaders and tech innovators like StorageDefender, SAM, Cubix Asset Management, The Jenkins Organization, and AI Lean. You’ll gain valuable insights on real-world applications and revenue-generating strategies that you can put into action immediately.

Iris Czygan

President, SBOA