Self-storage customers already spend time at the property while unloading, reorganizing units, or managing business inventory. That time creates an opportunity most facilities currently overlook: the parking space.

Adding a small number of EV charging stations could allow customers to charge while they use their storage unit. Instead of making a separate charging stop, renters could add range during time they were already planning to spend at the facility.

The idea could also create another revenue opportunity. Operators could offer discounted charging to tenants, charge visitors a standard rate, or include limited charging with premium rental packages. For facilities serving contractors or small businesses, charging could become especially valuable as more commercial fleets transition to electric vehicles.

EV charging may also help a property stand out without changing the core storage product. A facility with unused parking capacity could turn a few spaces into a modern amenity while collecting useful information about demand before investing in a larger rollout.

What to do about it: Start by reviewing parking utilization and electrical capacity at the property. If the numbers make sense, test one or two charging spaces with clear time limits and track customer usage. An underused parking spot could eventually become both an amenity and a revenue-producing asset.