Click here to view gallery ›

Self-storage is a business that can be operated frugally. It doesn’t require a lot of glitz and glimmer. However, the industry has evolved to a mainstream retail service. This maturation has propelled what was once a simple concept of trading space for cash to a whole new level.

Self-storage operators today have access to business enhancers such as revenue-management tools, website-optimization tools, lead-generating services, call centers and high-tech security systems. These upgrades are often necessary to compete in today’s market, but most carry a price that can quickly eat into your income.

But even as the cost of doing business is rising, there are a lot of little things you can do in your self-storage operation to "tighten the belt" and minimize costs. Here are some ideas.

To learn more, visit our "Management" topics page or attend seminars in the "Day-to-Day Operations Track" at the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, March 14-16, 2012, where industry experts will share their insight on being a great self-storage manager. You can also watch the free on-demand webinar “Strategies to Boost Income and Cut Costs: Taking a Page From the Playbook of Top Self-Storage Operators."