The CEO of the Self Storage Association, Rennie Schafer, has discussed how developments in technology will impact storage facilities.
Electronic locks opened by smartphone apps make storage more convenient, as the user does not have to carry a key and can authorise other people to access the stored items.
Some sites have robots that do security checks and bring a storage unit to the customer.
Though fully automated storage sites are possible, Rennie Schafer believes there will be customer resistance to using facilities with no humans on site. Automation has a role to play, but there is still a place for the personal touch of live staff.
CCTV cameras are standard at storage facilities, but AI technology will be able to distinguish images of intruders from regular customers and could report criminal activity to the police and security personnel.
Artificial intelligence can match the best size and type of storage unit to a customer’s needs, and make it simple for the customer to do this online at any time. AI also has a planning role by analysing how customers use storage facilities and using this data to plan the future expansion of storage units.
Rennie Schafer says that we are at the beginning of a self storage revolution. He wants storage operators to invest wisely in technology that serves the customers and makes running facilities more efficient.
Merseyside Movers & Storers provides safe and secure storage in the Liverpool region manned by our reliable human team. Get in touch with us today for expert support.
