So, you’ve got the land and a feasibility study in hand—now what? In this episode, we walk through the critical next steps before breaking ground on a new self-storage facility. From layout decisions to customer flow to operational planning, this conversation is packed with practical advice for developers and future owners.

Topics covered include:

• Designing with the Customer in Mind – How your layout impacts customer experience, from unit accessibility to traffic flow
• Operational Planning – Will you have an on-site manager or run it remotely? Your answer should shape your design and tech choices
• Avoiding Common Layout Mistakes – Keypad placement, truck access, and avoiding bottlenecks at entrances and exits
• Technology & Automation – What systems do you need to run your facility smoothly, how should they factor into your build, and how do they relate to each other?

Whether you’re brand new to the industry or planning your next site, this episode helps you think through what matters most before you build—customer experience and operational strategy.

Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff

Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions