By Jenn Shaver
It was a beautiful, sunny California day that had the unfortunate designation of being a weekday. Mid-morning, I had just finished checking the property before the heat became unbearable, when I saw one of my tenants pulling into the facility with his truck. I figured he had the brilliant idea of taking his ski boat out for a spin on the lake. But minutes later, he pulled up to the office—without the boat—and jumped out of his truck in a panic.
He had opened his RV unit and found it empty. His boat was gone—every storage owner’s worst nightmare. Immediately, he was on the phone with his wife, talking about calling the police, while I pulled up gate access records and started reviewing the DVR footage. It 
didn’t take long to discover that his own access code had been used to enter and exit the facility earlier that day. While he and his wife tried figuring out who else might have access to their code and keys, I found the answer. The tenant’s son, with a friend, had entered the facility and taken the boat, committing at least two crimes that morning—skipping school and “borrowing” the boat.
As much as I sympathized with the tenant’s predicament, I also knew that situations like these are quickly becoming relics of the past. With the advent of smart access technology, stories like these are happening less frequently, as property owners and tenants embrace more secure, efficient systems.
The RV storage industry has evolved significantly in recent years, and smart access technology is playing a pivotal role in this transformation. For property owners, integrating these technologies isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic investment that enhances operations, boosts security, and creates a better tenant experience.
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- The Evolution of RV Storage and Market Potential
One of the most exciting aspects of RV parking storage is its adaptability. The evolution of this industry allows owners to start with an open field and scale up to enclosed, high-tech spaces with multiple entry points. RV storage tenants tend to stay longer than traditional storage customers, and yet, the demand for these spaces still exceeds supply in most markets.
Whether you’re developing a new site or evaluating investments to increase property value, incorporating smart access features can significantly improve both operations and tenant satisfaction.
- Improved Access and Convenience with Bluetooth and Geofencing
Smart access features, like Bluetooth entry at your gate, can have the most significant impact when it comes to managing large or towed vehicle access. Parking an RV can be 
stressful, especially when it involves stopping traffic, exiting the vehicle and using a keypad that’s designed for cars. With app-based access and geofencing, RV drivers can minimize the hassle and risk at the gate.
These technologies reduce the time spent at entrances, eliminate the need for multi-level keypads, and enhance security by ensuring only registered users can access the facility. This results in smoother operations and reduced potential for property damage, improving tenant satisfaction.
- Real-Time Monitoring and Data-Driven Decisions
Smart access systems don’t just simplify entry—they provide real-time data analysis via cloud-based activity reporting. For operators, this data can lead to cost-saving decisions regarding staffing and maintenance needs. For example, you’ll know immediately if a tenant has vacated a space or if an incident has occurred, allowing for faster responses.
Tenants, especially those storing high-value RVs or commercial fleet vehicles, appreciate having access to their own activity logs. This transparency not only provides peace of mind but also attracts commercial operators who require detailed tracking of their vehicles.
- A Marketable Value Add
Incorporating smart technology into your RV storage facility isn’t just about convenience—it’s a highly marketable value add. These features can help you stand out from the competition by offering higher rental rates per square foot and attracting long-term commercial customers. Besides leveraging online marketing campaigns, operators should consider reaching out to homeowner associations and local dealerships, helping them overcome a key barrier: where to store their clients’ recreational vehicles.
- Smart Features for Enclosed Spaces
For enclosed RV storage spaces, smart access features can control, monitor and secure doors, while offering premium amenities like lighting and climate controls. Modern systems even include water leak detection, humidity monitoring, and interior imaging options. These add-ons are particularly appealing to tenants storing valuable vehicles and can generate additional revenue for operators.
Many owners are finding ways to upgrade their existing spaces rather than build new ones, allowing them to increase revenue without expanding net rentable square footage.This can be especially beneficial in markets where space is limited but demand remains high.
- Choosing the Right Technology
When selecting smart access technology, it’s essential to focus on solutions that offer the most benefit for your particular project. Consider how well the product will integrate with your existing equipment and systems, and always start by identifying the needs of your ideal customer. Ultimately, investing in smart technology is a smart business decision for any operator offering RV storage.
The integration of smart access technology in RV storage facilities is not only a response to evolving customer expectations but also a strategic advantage for property owners. By improving security, enhancing tenant convenience and providing real-time operational insights, these systems elevate the overall management of RV storage properties. Moreover, they offer a marketable edge that can attract long-term customers, increase rental rates and optimize the use of existing spaces. As the RV storage industry continues to expand, operators who invest in smart technology will be well-positioned to meet the growing demand, drive revenue and provide a superior tenant experience.
Jenn Shaver is a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of experience in the storage industry. Her career spans a variety of roles, from operational positions to the vendor side, with a focus on problem-solving and enhancing both tenant and operator experiences. Jenn has developed a passion for speaking and training, sharing her knowledge to inspire and educate others in the industry. Now, through Empowered Self Storage Consulting & Management, she is committed to driving positive change and giving back to the field that has shaped her career.
Empowered Self Storage Consulting & Management specializes in elevating self-storage operations through tailored consulting services. With over 20 years of industry experience, the team provides comprehensive solutions—from operational efficiency and revenue management to leadership development and team assessments. The company strives to bring a unique, bottom-up perspective that drives measurable results, with expertise to transform challenges into growth opportunities, ensuring businesses not only meet industry standards but sets new ones.
