hen I think about what real success looks like in the self-storage industry, it’s not always about building the biggest facility or hiring the largest team. In fact, some of the most exciting and sustainable growth I’ve seen lately is happening on a smaller, smarter scale.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with storage operators in diverse markets around the globe. Success comes from understanding market shifts and aligning with them. Businesses must move with the market, not against it. And that makes all the difference in maintaining financial resilience and long-term growth.

Some of the most effective operators I know are expanding thoughtfully. They’re turning overlooked corners of their properties into revenue-producing areas. They’re experimenting with layout changes and testing the market before making big commitments. With relocatable storage units, this kind of growth is possible and practical. A single container load of 10 to 12 units can increase capacity quickly without heavy construction or long-term debt. It’s a way to grow at a manageable pace without overextending resources.

There’s a misconception that bigger means better when it comes to staffing, too. I’ve seen firsthand how smaller teams can be more effective. When everyone understands their role, communication improves and the company’s mission stays front and center. That clarity builds trust—both internally and with your customers.

Fewer moving parts also mean more consistency. It’s easier to maintain quality, adapt processes, and deliver a better customer experience. And that kind of attention to detail doesn’t go unnoticed—it becomes part of your brand.

I like to say, when you stay small, you stay close—to your customers, your team, and your values. You can listen better, respond faster, and make improvements quickly. That’s something large organizations with layers of management often struggle with, but it’s exactly what helps smaller operators thrive.

I always encourage operators to look at what’s right in front of them. That empty driveway or vacant fence line might be the perfect spot for a row of relocatable units. That patch of land behind your building could become your next revenue stream. Sometimes the most valuable space is the space you’ve been overlooking. Success in this business isn’t about growing for growth’s sake. It’s about growing smart: staying flexible, keeping operations efficient, and focusing on real, human connections with your customers. In my view, true growth comes from being purposeful. Rather than chasing size, focus on building something solid that lasts.