By 6Storage
Owners of self-storage, including RV/boat storage, are used to navigating market shifts, local competition and rising operational costs. But the latest round of international tariffs is 
something you’ll want to pay extra attention to.
Whether you’re running one facility or managing multiple properties, these new tariffs could quietly affect your business, from your next expansion project to your everyday expenses. The good news? With the right approach, you can lighten the impact and protect your bottom line.
What Are the 2025 Tariffs About?
Recent government changes have introduced new tariffs on a wide range of imported goods, including:
- Steel and aluminum,
- Electronics and semiconductors, and
- Technology components and building materials.
While self-storage may not seem like a tariff-sensitive industry at first glance, many of the tools, systems and infrastructure materials used by facility owners are imported. That means storage operators could face higher prices on everything from construction to tech upgrades.
Where You’ll Feel the Impact Most
Here’s how the new tariffs could affect your storage operation:
- Expansion & Construction: Steel framing, HVAC units, and insulation materials may now cost significantly more, driving up the price of new builds or renovations.
- Security and Gate Access Systems: Most keypad systems, surveillance cameras and access control technologies rely on imported parts. You can help keep those costs at a minimum with cloud-based remote management.
- Office & Tech Infrastructure: Computers, tablets, routers and smart facility tools may see pricing changes due to supply chain impacts.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Even common replacement parts can become more expensive over time, such as locks, lighting, door components and signage.
These costs can affect your margins unless you’re prepared to respond proactively.
What Storage Owners Can Do to Lighten the Impact
Here are practical ways to reduce the pressure of rising costs and use them as an opportunity to strengthen your operation:
1. Automate and Optimize with Smart Software
Lean into automation. Modern software platforms help you cut operational waste, can help reduce the need for in-person staffing, and automate rent collection, access control and communication with tenants. With fewer manual processes, you can do more with less, even as material costs rise.
2. Review Vendor Relationships and Supply Chains
Now is the time to evaluate existing contracts. Can you renegotiate pricing or switch to domestic suppliers? Ask your vendors how they plan to handle tariff-related increases and find alternative sources if needed. Being proactive can help you avoid getting locked into higher rates.
3. Focus on Energy and Operational Efficiency
Every dollar saved on utilities or labor is a buffer against rising material costs. Consider switching to energy-efficient lighting, upgrading insulation or installing a smart thermostat. These upgrades may have upfront costs, but they can help pay off long term, especially in an inflationary environment.
4. Adjust Rates Mindfully
If costs rise significantly, you may need to pass some of that on to tenants. Just be strategic: Implement modest increases and communicate the valuable improvements you’re making, such as upgraded security or improved online access. Transparency goes a long way toward maintaining trust and retention.
5. Prioritize Retention and Experience
Acquiring new tenants is always more expensive than keeping current ones. You can enhance your tenant experience through convenient digital tools, responsive service and flexible payment options. A smooth, hassle-free experience can keep your facilities occupancy strong, even in uncertain times.
6. Stay Informed and Adaptable
Economic policies will continue to shift. Stay informed with industry news, local regulations and vendor changes. Being current helps you adapt more efficiently than your competition and gain an edge in your market.
Tariffs may be beyond your control, but how you respond to them isn’t. With smart software, efficient operations and proactive planning, storage owners can not only absorb the impact but continue to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
The team at 6Storage believes that storage facility owners deserve the same freedom and peace of mind they provide to their tenants. That’s why the company focuses on delivering simple, secure software solutions that empower operators to thrive. The mission of 6Storage is to offer high-quality products and services at competitive prices, backed by unparalleled customer service. Need help weathering rising costs? Book a demo or connect with members of 6Storage to learn how they can help you do more with less.
