Lock It Up

By Angela Perry, PhoneSmart call center trainer and self storage trend expert.

Welcome to the PhoneSmart call center blog and insider diary of the self storage industry.

I am outspoken and always willing to give my opinion when asked. I am asked quite frequently about what type of lock is needed for storage units. I let the caller know that we have a variety of locks, and when they come in they can choose from our wide selection.

Offering catchy phrases such as, “You can choose from our good, better and best selection of lock.” Would be a good sales technique; the more description you can give the better.

There are three different types of locks; the combination lock, the master key lock and then the disc lock. The basic combination lock has a three-digit combination and is usually the least expensive. It can easily cause extra expense if the combination is forgotten; in self storage facilities it is the customer’s responsibly to pay for cutting the lock. Not only do they have to pay for it to be cut off, they must replace the lock.

The next type of lock is the standard master key lock. The disc lock, however, is thought to be the most secure and tamper proof. It is generally favored for a self storage unit.

My personal preference is the standard lock. I tell the customer that this will remove the stress of trying to remember a three-digit combination or, if they do forget the combination they might forget where they wrote it down. The disc lock can be an unwieldy expense for moving into self storage. It is feasible to go with the standard lock and key. “Just add another key to your keychain. That way it is always with you and there is nothing to remember as your keys are always with you’re when traveling.”

Locks play a key part in the all important security self storage customers are looking for. Choosing the correct type of lock is very important and your knowledge of locks can be an effective sales technique.