Mobile storage is a new and innovative alternative to traditional self storage. The concept is quite simple, states Bob DiBlasi, a consultant to Mobile Storage Solutions, Inc., a Council Bluffs, Iowa based company. The mobile storage company delivers storage containers directly to the customer’s location. The customer loads the container(s) according to their needs and schedule. Once the storage container(s) are loaded, the customer locks the container(s) and the mobile storage company returns to the customer’s location, picks up the container(s) and returns it to a secure, climate controlled warehouse for safekeeping. The customer can access the container either by going to the warehouse or having the container(s) redelivered to their location.
Self Storage customers want convenience, accessibility and reasonable rates says Ed Byrd, chief executive officer of Kontane, Inc, a Hickory, North Carolina based container supplier. “It is so easy for the customer”, Byrd indicates. No longer does the customer have to rent a truck, pack it, drive across town to a mini storage facility, unload the truck and then return the truck. All the customer has to do is make one phone call and the container(s) are delivered directly to them.
Randy Weissman, President of the Storage Banc, a St. Louis, Missouri based storage company echoes the comments of Byrd. “Every self-storage customer has a need for transportation. Why not solve that need? If we make it easy to get things into storage, maybe we will attract customers who would love to clean out the basement, garage or attic, but doesn’t want to hassle with renting a truck to get their belongings into storage”.
Although storage containers range in size and material, the industry appears to be settling on a 5’by 8’ by 7’ tall model with a door in the front, according to Rob Nist, marketing manager for Seattle-Tacoma Box Co. Nist says it’s a pretty ideal container because it maximizes stability; gives people the ability to store their couches and can be stored 4 high in most warehouses. Each container has the capacity to store approximately 2, 000 pounds which is equivalent to 1 room of furniture or 50 banker boxes for files.
Depending on the location and optional services offered, monthly rates for mobile storage range between $50.00 and $85.00 per month. Tim Riley, founder of Door To Door Storage, says when customers are educated about the advantages of mobile storage-including the fact it eliminates the need for truck rental, as well as for double loading and unloading- they are willing to pay higher rates. “Customers recognize the convenience”, Riley says.
Where did it come from?
Door To Door Storage was the first U.S. self-storage company to offer a ‘deliverable storage unit’ which customers load at their home or business. With the slogan, “You pack it up. We pick it up”, Door To Door set out to revolutionize the mobile storage delivery service. Door To Door Storage was founded by Tim Riley, a former self-storage executive, who wanted to provide a secure and convenient alternative to the hassles customers face when storing their belongings. Door To Door Storage met with rave reviews from its customers. By 1998, the company had expanded into Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. Currently, the Kent, Washington based company services over 3,000 towns and cities nationwide.
Where is it going?
Mobile storage is still in its infancy. Emerging on the market approximately 10 years ago, customers are still learning about the unique advantages the service has to offer. Industry observers liken the challenges faced by mobile storage companies to those faced by traditional self-stage during its early development. Lack of customer awareness is chief among the concerns. Many users believe mobile storage offers the ultimate in convenience, which is an increasingly popular attribute in today’s fast paced world. As customers become aware of the advantages of this new and innovative alternative to traditional self-storage the business will continue to expand.
A clear indicator of its continued success is the emergence of the Mobile Self Storage Association. Created in April 2004, the Mobile Self Storage Association’s vision is, “to facilitate and foster an atmosphere of cooperation between independently owned and operated mobile storage businesses that brings awareness, education, integrity, peace of mind and value to the customers we serve” (visit their website at www.ms-sa.org ). Currently, there are over 31 mobile storage members and an additional 19 vendors/suppliers who belong to the association.
Rob Nist, an industry insider, believes mobile storage is starting to build momentum. According to Nist, the Seattle-Tacoma Box Company is experiencing an increased volume is sales. “I think it’s starting to really catch on”, says Nist. To illustrate his point, Nist compared the mobile storage business to that of pizza delivery, “Twenty years ago, everyone who wanted a pizza went to a pizza parlor. Today, you pick up the phone and they deliver to your door. People love the service.”
Connie Garrett is the owner of Mobile Storage Solutions. To learn more from her expertise, visit the website at www.mobilesotragesolutions.biz and sign up for the free newsletter.
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