The RV industry is booming, and with it comes the need for storage solutions. As more and more people purchase RVs, the demand for secure and convenient storage options is on the rise. A RV Storage business is a lucrative business with lots of potential. Technology such as automated online payments, websites and automated gated security has made RV Storage a somewhat passive income stream for business owners. Streamlining a RV storage business requires many hours of planning including a business plan, market research, site selection, development permits, civil design, stormwater management and many other considerations. Here we will discuss more in detail the different requirements for a RV storage business.
Developing an RV Storage Business Plan
Don’t underestimate the importance of proper planning when building a RV storage business. A business plan will include your target audience, budgets, financial projections, marketing plan, where you plan to set up the business, contingencies, development challenges, etc. Depending on your business goals and location of the land, it is also worth exploring alternative development options such a transforming unused land into a campground or a combination of RV storage and a campground. At this stage, it is highly recommended to partner with a civil engineer to ensure your development is feasible.
Marketing Research and Planning
Be sure to commit many hours to local market research and formulate a reasonable marketing budget to attract people to your RV Storage business. It’s one thing to have the idea to start an RV storage business, it’s another thing to understand if it’ll be successful or not. Having a clear understanding of the RV owner and RV tourism statistics in your area will ensure this market can sustain a RV Storage business.
Choosing A Successful Location
The first and most important factor to consider when planning your RV storage business is location. You want to choose a location that is easily accessible for RV owners, preferably near popular RV campground destinations or highways. You can contact the municipality to find out the zoning restrictions on the property. Can the property be rezoned for your storage business (if required)? How long with the rezoning process take? Do I need to upgrade the nearby roads or other infrastructure? Are you planning on storing recreational vehicles such as boats or off-road vehicles? Do you plan on offering added services such as a dump station or potable water? These questions are important as the zoning and location may limit the type of storage facility that can be developed. Furthermore, the bylaws will impact your overall costs. If the location is not viable for RV storage, it is worth exploring other options such as self-storage facilities.
Meridian RV Storage located outside of Spruce Grove, Alberta
Amenities
In order to stand out from competitors and attract customers, it's important to offer amenities that make your RV storage business more convenient and appealing. This could include features such as 24/7 pin access, security cameras, on-site maintenance and repair services, dump station, water station, and even RV washing and detailing services. These amenities can help differentiate your business and make it a more attractive option for RV owners.
Pricing
Pricing is a crucial aspect of any business, and it's important to find a balance between profitability and affordability for customers. Research the prices of other RV storage businesses in your area and consider the amenities and services they offer. You may also want to offer discounts for long-term storage or referral programs to attract and retain customers.
Marketing
In order to reach potential customers, you'll need to invest in marketing efforts. This could include creating a website, professional photos, utilizing social media platforms, and advertising in local RV magazines or websites. You may also want to attend RV shows or events to network and promote your business. Be sure to highlight the unique features and amenities of your RV storage business in your marketing materials.
Permits and Regulations
Before opening your RV storage business, it's important to research and obtain any necessary permits and licenses. You may also need to comply with zoning regulations and obtain insurance for your business. It's important to do your due diligence and ensure that your business is operating legally and safely.
RV Storage Development
Now that a plan is in place, and permits have been acquired, it’s time to develop the land into an RV storage business. Partnering with the right civil engineering team will expedite the RV Storage development and remove bottlenecks in the process. In collaboration with the owner, our seasoned civil engineer will create a RV storage design, drainage & stormwater management plan, land survey, and services (hookups, septic system, water if required) that maximizes the property’s features. Furthermore, Bolson Engineering and Environmental Services offers project management services to alleviate any development concerns.
Indoor RV Storage
Challenges to Consider
Here we will list some common potential challenges that might arise with the development of an RV storage business. Addressing rezoning pushback from various stakeholders will require upfront public engagement. Other issues that crop up include undevelopable wetlands (sometimes they are not obvious). The civil design will have to be updated to reflect those environmental recommendations. Inclement weather can also delay your project schedule and should be budgeted accordingly. Material shortages or price increases during construction are problematic. Due diligence planning upfront should help mitigate these development issues that threaten your budget or timeline to completion. Working with an experienced Project Manager can help keep things on track and avoid or address issues as needed.
Expansion Plans
As the RV industry continues to grow, it's important to have a plan for potential expansion of your RV storage business. This could include adding more storage units, offering additional amenities, or even expanding to multiple locations. It's important to have a long-term vision for your business and be prepared for potential growth opportunities.
Final Thoughts
By considering these key factors and planning carefully, you can set your RV storage business up for success. With the increasing demand for RV storage, now is a great time to enter this industry and provide a valuable service to RV owners.
Bolson Engineering and Environmental Services is passionate about development. We have partnered many RV Storage developers across Alberta to maximize their development. Have a vision? Contact us.
