Web-Based Booking Service Handy Enters New York City Valet Self-Storage Market

Handy, an online booking business that specializes in connecting consumers with housecleaning and handyman services, has launched valet self-storage service in New York City’s borough of Manhattan. The company uses a mobile app and online platform that allows customers to schedule item pickup, maintain a visual catalog of stored bins and bulky items, and schedule delivery of items to their home.

Handy Storage differs from many similar valet-storage services in that customers pay only for the space they use, according to the source. A 5-by-5-foot space costs $99 per month, while a 10-by-10 is $249 per month. Smaller and larger standard space, as well as customized options, are also available.

“We really wanted to offer a better product,” Alex Levin, vice president of expansion, told the source. “We designed it completely with the customer in mind. The customer just picks a time, and Handy moving professionals show up for free, and we photograph and inventory every item in storage, and then the customer can request any items delivered on demand.”

Launched three months ago, the service has attracted business and residential customers, including a clothing designer that is using Handy as its company warehouse, the source reported. Handy reportedly chose to store items in New Jersey due to truck-route efficiency and more affordable lease space to keep customer rent lower than competitors.

New York City has seen the rise of several valet-storage businesses over the last three years. There are at least four other operators with service in the metropolitan area including Box Butler, Clutter, MakeSpace Labs Inc. and RedBin.

“In the long run, there’s large enough market for a few players,” Levin told the source. “Once we really do a good job in New York City, there’s a possibility we’ll bring this to other markets.”

Founded in 2012, Handy offers on-demand household services in 35 local markets in Canada, the United Kingdom and United States, including 30 in the U.S., according to its website. In addition to cleaning, services offered include electrical, furniture assembly, painting, plumbing and relocation assistance. It has received nearly $111 million in investment, including a $50 million Series C funding round in November, the source reported.