Centreforce Technology of Strathpine, Queensland, Australia, has released RapidStor, a new online, real-time booking system for the self-storage industry. The system shows customers real-time prices for spaces available at a self-storage facility and gives them the option to move-in now or later.

Centreforce spent nine months writing a specific application that would use application programming interface (API) from SiteLink Web Edition self-storage management software to access real-time data. RapidStor interacts with the SiteLink API and the facilitys database to complete the move-in task, including the acceptance of the storage agreement, payment processing, e-mail invoicing and updating the facility software. An added advantage is customers pay their first month, at full price, at the time of move-in.

The code used by the system includes security features to protect each customers identity and credit card details using high-level encryption. The procedure is hosted on Centreforces PCI DSS-compliant servers. Online payments are processed by payment partner ADVAM. Sites that use the technology enjoy low, non-commissioned fees.

Self-storage has moved rapidly to the Web from traditional media like the Yellow Pages, and operators have had to rethink how they do business. The leaders of the industry have invested in new technology to harness this consumer change in buying practices, said Dallas Dogger, Centreforce managing director.

RapidStor was first deployed through the website of Capital Self Storage in Mitchell, Australian Capital Territory, Australia. The facility received its first online move-in within 20 minutes of going live. Since implementation in March, more than 70 reservations and move-ins have been completed using RapidStor.

Our website and the RapidStor procedure employed by Centreforce, combined with SiteLink, have given us the tools we must have to service our growing customer base The RapidStor feature is an essential part of our business, said Ian Oliver, director of Capital Self Storage.

Clients find the process a lot quicker when they come to move in, added facility manager Kevin Reilly. They have done the hard work before they get to the office.

SiteLink Web Edition is provided by Raleigh, N.C.-based SMD Software Inc. SiteLink software is used by more than 9,500 users worldwide. Centreforce has provided sales and support for SiteLink in Australia and Southeast Asia since 2007.