Zippboxx LLC, a startup business specializing in valet self-storage in Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan and Queens, N.Y., intends to expand services this year behind a wide-scale marketing campaign. The company uses an online platform that allows customers to schedule item pickup, maintain a visual catalog of stored belongings, and schedule delivery of items to their home.
Zippboxx initially targeted students and residents who needed space for seasonal storage, but co-founders Rob Marchese and Rick Stark have found that most customers have stored items for a set duration before moving all belongings out at once. “We didn’t do marketing in the first year, which has been research and development for us,” Marchese told the source. “It’s been building our concept, understanding our systems and getting the software down pat. Coming into this season, we are really going to ramp up our marketing and expand our fleet of vehicles. This season is going to tell us a lot more about our capabilities.”
The company, self-funded for about $1 million, also intends to seek outside investment, Marchese said.
While other valet-storage operators have concentrated on by-the-bin storage and delivery services, Zippboxx offers six space packages ranging from 25 to 200 square feet. Items are stored in a secure warehouse in Hauppague, N.Y. The smallest package is priced at $105 per month for a three-month stay, while the largest plan is $459 monthly. The company requires either a three- or 12-month commitment, with pricing reduced for the longer agreement, according to the company website.
Individual bins are affixed with a security seal and locked with a zip tie for security. Customers can manage their belongings through their online account. Return deliveries are given a two-hour window and are typically completed within 24 hours of the request, the source reported. Delivery fees are $35 per hour or $55 per hour per Zippboxx employee, depending on the customer’s plan. Items weighing more than 35 pounds require two movers to handle, according to the website.
Customers may also schedule to pick up requested items directly from the company’s storage facility at 923 B Motor Parkway, with 24- to 36-hour notice. Items restricted from storage include artwork, breakables, fine art, glass, jewelry, liquids and mirrors.
New York City has been among the most active valet-storage markets. Providers servicing the area include Bin It, Box Butler, Closetbox, Clutter, MakeSpace Labs Inc. and RedBin.
Sources:
SpareFoot Storage Beat, Zippboxx Brings More On-Demand Storage to Space-Starved New Yorkers
Zippboxx, Website