PORTABLE STORAGE BUILDINGS

A Smart Lock is an electronic Bluetooth lock that allows tenants to open their unit from a tap on their smartphone or by entering an access code. These locks can enhance security & efficiency at a facility by offering features like granting or revoking access remotely, digital key sharing for tenants, and a full activity log on their online portal or dashboard.  

This will generally depend on what your setup is like at your facility and what your goals are for your facility moving forward. All Smart Locks are mostly similar, but each has their own functions that differentiate them from one another. OpenTech Alliance’s INSOMNIAC Smart Lock has a built-in keypad for tenants, while PTI Security Systems ProEDGE has a “phoneless” mode. Passport Locks are able to even function without any active Wi-Fi or network. OpenTech Alliance & PTI Security Systems are also able to offer a full Access Control System with their smart locks as well. 

Not for all of the options. OpenTech Alliance’s INSOMNIAC Smart Lock has a built-in keypad for tenants, while PTI Security Systems ProEDGE has a “phoneless” mode that allows tenants to enter their code at the gate and gain unit access. All Smart Lock options have Bluetooth capability and have an app you can use if desired. Passport Locks have the DirectKey mobile app, OpenTech Alliance has the Storage Genie mobile app, and PTI Security Systems has the StorID mobile app. 

For some of the Smart Lock options, you will need internet on site. It is recommended to have some sort of internet or network regardless as it allows for better information tracking and more remote management features. 

If a tenant does not have a smartphone, there are options for them to still use Smart Locks. OpenTech Alliance’s INSOMNIAC Smart Lock has a built-in keypad for tenants, while PTI Security Systems ProEDGE has a “phoneless” mode that allows tenants to enter their code at the gate and gain unit access. 

Each Smart Lock option has either a battery-adapting cord or a key for the battery compartment. Passport Locks by Honeywell have a battery-adapting cord. The OpenTech Alliance INSOMNIAC has a special key for owners/managers. 

Since the Passport Locks, INSOMNIAC Smart Locks, and the ProEDGE Smart Latch are all wireless and battery powered, they are fully functional during a power outage. The caveat to this is that if there is an Access Control System on site, this will most likely be down so gate or man door access would not be available. 

The Passport Locks, INSOMNIAC Smart Locks, and the ProEDGE Smart Latch are all tested to perform in temperatures ranging from –20 °F to 160 °F. They are also weather-resistant and can withstand outdoor elements. Can be used for indoor or outdoor units. 

Passport Locks are integrated with a couple of the biggest PMS companies, such as SiteLink, StorEDGE, & Tenant Inc. OpenTech Alliance and PTI Security Systems have a wider range of integrations. Those two are integrated with most, if not all of the PMS companies for self-storage. 

You are not able to remotely lock or unlock a unit, but you can grant access instantly from anywhere. The majority of the Smart Locks still need some kind of physical interaction to open the lock, such as pushing a button or sliding the latch open. 

The INSOMNIAC Smart Locks and the ProEDGE Smart Latch allow for tenant key sharing. You are also able to set parameters for how long you would like to grant access.

Yes, Smart Locks are able to be installed and retrofitted to an existing facility. The Passport Locks, INSOMNIAC Smart Locks, and the ProEDGE Smart Latch all come in the standard 4-hole chateau hole punch, making swapping out the existing latches seamless. 

Smart Lock pricing varies based on the brand, the number of units being installed, and whether the project is a new build or retrofit. Costs also depend on things like installation needs, network hardware, and monthly or annual subscription fees. Because every facility is different, most manufacturers provide customised quotes based on your specific layout and goals.  

Yes, all smart locks in the industry will have either monthly or annual fees associated with their system. They vary depending on each company and what is installed at a facility. 

There are a number of things that may make Smart Locks better than traditional locks, but it all depends on what your intended use is for them. Some owners/operators like the fact that they do not have to worry about overlocks or lock checks anymore. Other owners/operators like the convenience aspect of being able to manage their facility from anywhere.