Tips to Attract College Students to Your Self Storage Facility

Marketing to college students

Toward the end of summer, college students and their parents begin preparing for the upcoming academic year. Sooner or later, they have to figure out how to stuff their belongings into small spaces. It’s likely that they’re going to need secure, reliable space for the overflow.

Given that college students live in cramped dormitories and shared apartments, they are always in need of more room. They may not realize it yet, but they need a convenient, secure self-storage unit for their overflow.

To appeal to these kids, consider your offerings and facilities from their perspective. What are their requirements, interests, and financial considerations? Get the word out where they gather, and you’ll increase occupancy rates in no time.

If you own a self storage facility located in a college or university town, summer is prime time to attract students. Trusted Self Storage locations have the sizes, flexibility, and security that students need for the upcoming year. Don’t wait too long to explore self storage in your area.

 

Self Storage Services That College Kids Want

College students are looking for specific services and amenities. Attract them by gearing your services toward their specific needs.

Offer Student Discounts
Typically, students have limited financial resources. Expenses such as tuition, fees, and textbooks leave little disposable income. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consider implementing student discounts. If you establish a reputation as an affordable self-storage provider, you will attract prospective student tenants.

Showcase Flexible Lease Options
College students encounter a variety of situations. With summer classes, internships, and study abroad programs, they’re always on the move. The flexibility of month-to-month leasing terms works for their lifestyle. They don’t want to be forced into a long-term commitment.

Advertise Small or Shared Units
It’s unlikely that college students will be storing appliances or large pieces of furniture. Their belongings are typically packed in containers and take up minimal space. Small-sized, less expensive units are a more suitable option for the college crowd. If you have only larger units, market them as a “shared” space. This gives several students the option of sharing one space for less money.

Convenient 24/7 Access
College students don’t keep regular schedules. They’re out late and up early for class. Their social schedules are wildly inconsistent. They want to know that they don’t have to keep track of access hours. They need extended hours so that they can get that book that they haven’t opened for a month.

A Technology Friendly Business is a Must
If a college student can’t manage their account or reserve a unit on your website, they’ll find a competitor. Another desirable option for these students is Bluetooth access. This system allows self storage tenants to enter their units with their mobile devices. With their crazy busy schedules, students appreciate these time-saving amenities.

Make Your Website Student Friendly

It takes a visually appealing, user-friendly website to establish a strong connection with local college students. It also takes a site that is optimized for mobile devices.

Your website should contain the following information.

A Student-Specific Storage Page
If you want to rank higher on Google, use a student-specific storage page. Optimize your title tag with something like “Budget-Friendly Student Self Storage Near (local university).” Include amenities and driving directions.

A Student-Specific Discount Page
Along with an overview of all of your specials, be sure to display student discounts. These kids and their parents want to know that renting a unit from you is affordable.

A Student-Specific FAQ Page
This is another great way to increase your ranking for student storage. By adding information specifically geared toward students, your site will be more likely to show up in student-specific searches.

A Student-Specific Moving and Packing Supply Page
College students are likely to throw their belongings in the nearest trash bag or stuff them into a used box. They’re typically not focused on sturdy boxes and high-quality moving supplies.

Include a section for 2 or 3 different-sized “student” packing bundles. Students will appreciate purchasing bundled supplies without making the effort to actually choose what they need. Their parents (who are probably footing the bill) will also appreciate you.

Get the Word Out in the Right Places

Look for prospects where students gather.

Be a Presence at Student Events
Being present at campus activities and sporting events will give your facility visibility. Distribute flyers and business cards with coupons for 50% off at move-in or a free month of storage. Add small gifts like pens, plastic cups, or tape measures.

Buying ad space in sports programs is another way to increase your visibility.

Post Flyers
Post professional-grade flyers in dorm lounges, university offices, and student hangouts. It’s a good idea to get permission from the administration.

Target Social Media
Social media is a vital part of your marketing mix. According to MSS Media, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have a strong following among young adults aged 18 to 29. Stay on top of social media trends and add them to your strategy.

Contact the Study Abroad Department
Find out how to provide information to students who are planning to leave the country for a semester or longer. These students might be subletting an apartment and will need self storage for the short-term.

Conclusion

As the summer season comes to an end, it is crucial to begin promoting your facility to college students. By providing student discounts, flexible lease options, and mobile access, you can position your facility as the top choice for college students in the area.

With a well-curated list of amenities and effective marketing efforts, you can establish your business as the preferred student storage solution.