Top 5 Self-Storage Layout Tips
Creating a layout for your self-storage development? Don’t forget these five key pointers.
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Creating the layout — including choosing the types and assortment of different units — is a critical part of developing a self-storage facility. In many ways, much like with any logistics-based enterprise, the efficiency of how space is utilized is critical to a facility’s success. When it comes to self-storage assets, everything from the placement of the buildings on the lot to the mix of units within them has an impact on the property’s bottom line.
With so much to consider — and so much at stake — creating a decent self-storage property layout can be quite a headache. To ease the design burden of a smidge, we’ve put together five helpful tips to optimize your facility’s design.
1. Study Nearby Self-Storage Facilities
Although it may be an obvious tip, it is an essential aspect nonetheless. Self-storage investors should scrutinize their target market carefully. Being able to see what works and what doesn’t in practice —and understanding the current mix of available units — is invaluable information to have when designing your layout.
2. Know Your Potential Storage Renters
The needs of potential tenants in the area should play a large role in structuring the layout of your self-storage facility. For example, college towns may be better off with a higher mix of smaller units, while an investor may need to include larger units if the target market has a higher percentage of homeowners, as this cohort typically requires more storage space than college students or renters.
3. Utilize Lot Space Efficiently
Building placement in a facility should be done with customer convenience in mind — but investors should still aim to maximize the square footage of rental areas while minimizing square footage used for common areas such as office space, lobbies, and corridors. Again, tenant convenience shouldn’t be hindered: The key is to have as little wasted space as possible, not to literally cut corners.
4. Upgrades or Necessities: Self-Storage Amenities
Self-storage facilities located in markets impacted by extreme temperatures or high levels of humidity may need more than just a secure box to store goods. Though climate-controlled storage units have become increasingly popular outside of their traditional audience, some climates essentially demand them. At the very least, humidity is practically never a good thing when it comes to storage, so a few humidity-controlled units couldn't hurt — even in a more moderate climate.
5. Convenience Is Key
We can’t stress this enough, but customer convenience is one of the greatest concerns and highest priorities when designing a self-storage layout. For example, drive-up facilities should not feel cramped and should allow for a range of vehicles to make complicated maneuvers while burdened with cargo. For indoor storage, a layout should be straightforward — that is, the number of turns that a tenant has to make should be as low as possible.
Related Questions
What are the most important considerations when designing a self-storage facility?
When designing a self-storage facility, the most important considerations are the local market conditions, the level of competition within the market radius, and the saturation level of the market. It's important to look at population and job growth, the ratio of homeowners to renters, and the proximity to university campuses, residential areas, and businesses within a 3- to 5-mile radius of the facility. The saturation level of an area is measured by the gross square feet of storage space available per person, with the U.S. average being 7 to 8 net square feet. A market with a per-capita inventory above the U.S. average is usually considered oversupplied, whereas anything below is undersupplied.
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What are the best ways to maximize space in a self-storage facility?
Maximizing space in a self-storage facility is an important part of running a successful business. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your space:
- Organize your units by size and type. This will help you to quickly identify which units are available and which are occupied.
- Make sure your units are well-lit and easy to access. This will make it easier for customers to find what they need.
- Utilize vertical space. Install shelves and racks to make the most of the space you have available.
- Consider using mobile storage units. These are a great way to maximize space and can be easily moved around the facility.
- Invest in a good security system. This will help to deter theft and vandalism, which can help you save money in the long run.
For more information on self-storage investing, check out this guide.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when designing a self-storage facility?
When designing a self-storage facility, it's important to consider the local market conditions, the competition within the market radius, and the saturation level of the market. Common mistakes to avoid include:
- Not doing enough research on the local market conditions.
- Not considering the level of competition within the market radius.
- Not considering the saturation level of the market.
- Not considering the needs of the local population.
- Not considering the potential for future growth.
For more information, check out this article on the top 5 emerging self-storage markets.
What are the best materials to use when constructing a self-storage facility?
When constructing a self-storage facility, the best materials to use are those that are durable and cost-effective. Steel is a popular choice for self-storage buildings, as it is strong and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Steel is also relatively low-maintenance and can be easily customized to fit the needs of the facility. Other materials that are commonly used for self-storage buildings include wood, concrete, and brick. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the specific needs of the facility before making a decision.
For more information on the materials used in self-storage construction, check out this article from Self Storage Solutions.
What are the most important safety features to consider when designing a self-storage facility?
When designing a self-storage facility, it's important to consider safety features such as security cameras, motion-sensor lighting, and access control systems. Additionally, it's important to consider the layout of the facility, such as the placement of the units and the visibility of the facility from the street.
According to SpareFoot, other safety features to consider include:
- Secure locks
- Fencing
- Alarm systems
- On-site management
- Well-lit facility
For more information on self-storage safety features, please visit SpareFoot.
What are the best ways to make a self-storage facility more energy efficient?
The best ways to make a self-storage facility more energy efficient are to implement smart building technology and replace interior and exterior lighting with LED bulbs. Smart technology can ensure heating or air conditioning systems are utilized only when necessary, lowering everyone’s energy costs. Other proptech can reduce your property management costs, if a tenant can tap a few buttons to submit a maintenance request. Replacing interior and exterior lighting with LED bulbs can have a huge impact on lowering your property’s energy costs. This doesn’t just lead to lower bills, but it’s also linked to higher office leasing renewal rates.
7 Tips to Keep Your Office Portfolio Recession-Proof and A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Storage Investing.