by Melissa Huff, originally published by Inside Self-Storage on April 28, 2025

If you’re looking for an easy way to generate more revenue at your self-storage facility, retail sales can be the answer. Everyone who stores with you needs moving and packing supplies like boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap, mattress covers and other useful products. But you won’t make a profit if you don’t manage your program wisely. Here’s how to optimize your efforts.

If you operate a self-storage facility (and you’re good at it), you’re always seeking ways to generate facility revenue from sources other than rent. This is becoming increasingly important as rate increases slow in many markets and street rates level off. Unit rentals alone may not be enough to sustain long-term business growth.

One income stream that’s particularly effective in this industry is retail sales. Offering your self-storage customers and others in the community a convenient, one-stop shop for moving and packing supplies such as boxes, locks, markers, tape, bubble wrap, mattress pads and other useful products creates value for customers, saving them time and effort during a stressful time. Of course, anything worth doing is worth doing right, so let’s discuss how to create a robust retail store that moves inventory effectively and boosts your business.

Providing the Right Self-Storage Products

Stocking the right products is essential for a successful self-storage retail space. The most effective approach is to offer items that cater directly to customer needs. While this may seem simple, operators often complicate the process. A common mistake is to stock too many box sizes or overly specialized packing products that don’t appeal to most shoppers. While variety can be beneficial, an overwhelming selection can lead to overstock, wasted space and lower profit margin.

Consider the purpose of each retail product you sell. For example, extra-large boxes, once packed, can be far too heavy for most movers. A mid-size box that’s sturdy and easy to stack is more efficient for the average person. If larger boxes are required, they should be made from higher-quality materials to withstand the extra weight.

When first launching your self-storage retail store, be careful not to overstock. Gauge interest and test market demand with small orders at first. Highly specialized products, such as foam inserts for packing fragile items, may seem appealing but are often overlooked in favor of general-purpose supplies like bubble wrap or packing peanuts.

Focus on core products that all self-storage tenants—and others in your area who are packing and moving—need. Start with small, medium and large boxes, packing tape, packing paper, and bubble wrap. You might also consider mattress covers as well as wardrobe and mirror boxes. Stocking a variety of high-demand items ensures that your retail space remains efficient, profitable and helpful to customers.

Organizing and Optimizing a Self-Storage Retail Space

Even a small self-storage office can support retail sales if it’s planned correctly. A smart, well-designed display can make a big difference in pushing products from your shelves...

Read the rest of the article at the Inside Self-Storage magazine online