By Andrew Jones (above left, with Chris Koenig)
The recent Self Storage Association (SSA) show was packed with familiar faces, new innovations and plenty of discussion about where our industry is headed. But what struck me most this year was how quickly truck parking is moving from the margins into the mainstream.
More Interest Than Expected
I’ve spoken about truck parking at shows before, but the level of interest this time genuinely surprised me. Operators who hadn’t previously considered it were pulling me aside, asking detailed questions about feasibility, costs and demand. It’s no longer a novelty topic—it’s becoming a serious strategic conversation.
Ancillary Revenue Front and Center
If there was one common thread across every panel and breakout session, it was this: ancillary revenue is king. From tenant insurance to white glove treatment, operators are laser-focused on ways to expand profitability. That priority dovetails perfectly with truck parking. Facilities that already have underutilized land or an appetite to expand see truck parking as an immediate way to add meaningful revenue while serving a critical national need.
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An Asset Class in the Spotlight
For years, truck parking has been overlooked—seen as too niche, too fragmented or simply “someone else’s problem.” But that tide is turning. At the SSA show, it was clear: This asset class is finally getting the attention it deserves. Industry leaders are recognizing that truck parking isn’t just a side hustle; it’s a scalable, sustainable investment opportunity with demand that isn’t going away anytime soon.
Looking Ahead
Walking away from the show, I felt a renewed sense of optimism. Truck parking has always been about more than just space. It’s about solving a real crisis for drivers while unlocking revenue for owners. And judging by the conversations at SSA, more operators than ever are ready to take that leap.
Andrew Jones is the Contributing Editor of Toy Storage Nation’s Truck Parking Blog. Andrew has been in the self-storage business for the last decade working for Yardi, Extra Space and JustStorage before co-founding OTR Truck Parking, where he remains co-owner. He currently serves on the Toy Storage Nation Advisory Board in addition to serving as Vice President of Property Member Optimization at Truck Parking Club, Andrew can be reached at andrew@otrtruckparking.com.
To view all installments of the TSN Truck Parking Blog, sponsored by Truck Parking Club, visit here.
