Kiosk For Self-Storage: 3 Major Benefits Of Tech-Enabled Kiosks

Many operators are reframing the role of kiosks for self-storage in the tenant experience and exploring how these kiosks can create a seamless, tech-enabled interaction between tenants and facilities.

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Kiosk technology is no longer confined to standalone machines but has branched out to offer tenants multiple ways to engage with your brand and facility staff.

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What was once modeled after airport check-in systems is now evolving into a dynamic, multi-functional platform.

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For example, tenants might encounter live support through audio or video connections with an external call center, creating an experience similar to a Zoom call with a representative.

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This evolution allows operators to tailor solutions to the unique needs of their storage facility.

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While a 1,500-unit facility in downtown Dallas may thrive with fully integrated video kiosks, a smaller 150-unit property in rural Tennessee might require a simpler setup.

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As a self-storage facility operator, are you:

• Struggling to provide consistent support for tenants around the clock?
• Looking to improve operational efficiency without sacrificing service quality?
• Wondering how to enhance tenant security and engagement simultaneously?

This article will explain how we think about kiosks for self-storage facilities in 2025.

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At swivl, we see three distinct benefits of tech-enabled kiosks for self-storage facilities:

• Enhancing tenant experiences with technology
• Enabling virtual management and security
• Boosting business metrics and valuations

Reframing The Purpose Of Tech-Enabled Kiosks In The Tenant Journey

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Many self-storage operators are rethinking the role of kiosks in their facilities, shifting from a mindset of cost-cutting to one focused on tenant experience. 

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Historically, kiosks were seen as tools to improve margins by reducing labor costs. Today, they are being utilized to elevate tenant interactions and put customers in front of specialized staff faster.

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Instead of viewing kiosks as an expense-saving measure, operators are now positioning them as a strategic asset. A well-implemented kiosk can act as your top-performing employee, offering consistent, reliable support while knowing when to direct tenants toward human-led assistance.

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This not only enhances the tenant journey but also frees up staff, which allows them to take on more specialized roles when it comes to customer support.

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The integration of live video or audio support adds a human touch to the tenant experience - and bridges the gap between self-service and personalized service. 

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At swivl, our mission includes developing technology and automation to empower facility operators to prioritize their tenants above all else.

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Facility operators who succeed in creating exceptional tenant experiences aren't primarily focused on cost-cutting. Instead, they concentrate on equipping tenants with the necessary tools to fulfill their needs.

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Kiosks For Self-Storage Facilities: 3 Major Benefits

1 - Enhance Tenant Experiences With Technology

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Tech-enabled kiosks offer tenants a seamless, user-friendly way to interact with your facility. Tenants can complete tasks at their convenience without waiting for on-site staff. This flexibility is particularly valuable for tenants with busy schedules who prefer self-service options.

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Advanced kiosks also allow for tailored interactions. For example, kiosks equipped with multilingual capabilities can cater to a diverse tenant base, while others might integrate with mobile apps for a cohesive, cross-platform experience. It’s about meeting tenants where they are to drive satisfaction and build loyalty.

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In a recent podcast episode, we spoke to Beau Agnello, Chief Operating Officer at Go Store It about kiosk technology and advanced unattended systems. Once you’ve finished reading this article, we highly recommend taking a listen for more specific self-storage kiosk use cases. 

2 - Enabling Virtual Management & Security

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Modern kiosks can serve as an essential part of a virtual management strategy. Through video and audio communication, tenants can connect with support staff or call center representatives in real-time. This means help is always available, even during non-business hours, without requiring on-site personnel.

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In terms of security, you can integrate kiosks with access control systems, surveillance cameras, and monitoring software to create a safer environment. For instance, a kiosk can verify a tenant’s identity before granting access to the facility, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry. These features not only improve tenant safety but also provide peace of mind for operators.

3 - Booting Business Metrics & Valuations

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Tech-enabled kiosks can significantly improve key business metrics. While we do not anticipate the market valuing virtually operated facilities any differently than traditionally manned facilities, the positive impacts of kiosks on tenant experiences will no doubt drive customer lifetime value higher.

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Kiosks allow for leaner operations and lower overhead costs because they reduce the workload on staff by automating routine tasks. It's also worth noting that the ability to offer around-the-clock service can drive higher occupancy rates by accommodating tenants who need flexibility.

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Integrating advanced kiosk technology signals to potential investors or buyers that your facility is modern, efficient, and tenant-focused. Facilities with tech-enabled features are often viewed as more competitive in the market, which can positively influence their overall value.

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Can Tech-Enabled Kiosks Elevate Your Tenant Experience?

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Kiosks for self-storage have evolved beyond basic functions, now connecting tenants directly with the most relevant team members, enhancing the tenant experience significantly.

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To assess readiness, consider these points:

• Kiosks provide swift access to expert staff.
• They offer seamless self-service for tenant convenience.
• They ensure immediate, secure support.

If your facility lacks this, adopting kiosks could transform your operations and tenant satisfaction. 

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If you haven’t already, go download the second edition of our industry report “The State of Technology in Self Storage.” We cover a ton of data points focused on how operators should think about putting The Modern Customer at the center of their universe.

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