In-Person vs. Online Rentals: Self-Storage Operators Debate the Pros and Cons

Once upon a time, every self-storage rental was carried out face-to-face with a manager inside the facility office. But times have changed, and customers now have more options. Many search for, find and rent their unit online. Operators have mixed feelings about this transition. On one hand, web-based rentals can ease their workload and allow them to sell space around the clock. On the other, it doesn’t allow them to interact with their potential tenant in-person and check for red flags. There’s also the simple pleasure of getting to know and welcome the person, which is lost in a contactless process.

Both self-storage rental methods—in-person and online—have their pros and cons. They’re being discussed right now by members of our Self-Storage Talk online community. Jump into this lively discussion thread to learn which approach they prefer and why, then add your own take.