Creating a New Self-Storage Technology Ecosystem

https://www.insideselfstorage.com/software/a-new-self-storage-ecosystem-cubby-s-unified-technology-platform-aims-to-simplify-facility-operation

Publish Date: 2026-02-14 03:03:00

Source Domain: www.insideselfstorage.com

Before creating their AI-powered, all-in-one software platform for the self-storage industry, the cofounders of New York City-based Cubby engaged in extensive onsite research to fully grasp the day-to-day challenges of facility operators. They conducted property walk-throughs. They installed overlocks. They even shoveled snow.

This hands-on experience informed the way they built their product, which streamlines self-storage management, modernizes e-commerce for unit rentals, optimizes revenue with smart pricing, manages customer communications, collects data and provides reporting, all with a goal to automate operations and improve tenant experiences.

“What sets Cubby apart from competitors is our integrated, modern approach,” says Matt Engfer, cofounder and CEO. “While legacy systems often require operators to cobble together multiple point solutions, we’ve built a unified platform from the ground up. We prioritize speed, intuitive design and continuous evolution based on operators’ direct feedback.”

Related:ISS BLOG – Upgrading My Self-Storage Management Software: Hiccups and Lessons Learned

Born From User Experience

Several years back, Engfer was working full time at commercial real estate technology firm VTS while also managing a side hustle in art sales. Needing a temporary home for his art, he decided to rent three self-storage units. He was stunned by the old-school nature of the rental process.

“I had to call to book my unit,” he says. “Coming from the world of real estate technology, I knew this had to be improved.”

Engfer began attending self-storage conferences and tradeshows, where he asked operators about their business challenges. The more discussions he had, the more he realized that many were: