How AI Is Transforming Storage Management

About this episode

The episode discusses how AI is transforming self storage management and enhancing customer interactions.

In this week’s episode of the Self Storage Insight Podcast, James Shepherd sits down with Derric Hartzell, an experienced operator managing nearly 2,000 units to explore how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape self storage. From communication tools to operational workflows, the conversation dives into what AI can realistically handle today—and where it still falls short. The discussion highlights a key shift in how storage should be viewed: not as a passive real estate investment, but as an active, customer-facing business. Daily operations involve constant interaction—calls, payments, reservations, and customer service—and AI is starting to play a role in streamlining many of these touchpoints. For example, automating responses to common tenant needs, integrating phone systems with management software, and using text-based follow-ups can significantly reduce friction while improving the customer experience.

People in this episode

Host: James Shepherd

Guest: Derric Hartzell

Topics covered

• artificial intelligence
• self storage
• customer experience
• operational workflows
• communication tools

Keywords

• AI
• self storage
• customer service
• automation
• operational efficiency

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Self Storage Insight Podcast, AI

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