A self storage gate access system is a gate operator, a keypad or reader, and software that decides which codes work and when. You choose between a standalone keypad, a networked gate that connects to your management software, and unit-level smart locks or door alarms, based on whether the site is staffed, your budget and the internet or cellular signal you have.
This guide compares the common types in plain terms. It does not recommend a hardware brand. Ask each maker for a written spec and price.
The parts of an access system
| Part | What it does |
|---|---|
| Gate operator | The motor and arm or sliding gate that opens and closes |
| Keypad or reader | Where the tenant enters a code, scans a card or taps a phone. See keypad |
| Controller | The brain that stores codes, schedules and logs |
| Software | Where you add, change and remove codes and view the log |
| Power and backup | Mains power, a battery, sometimes solar |
| Connection | Wired internet, wifi, cellular, or none |
| Exit device | A loop or sensor so cars can leave |
| Unit-level devices | Door alarms or smart locks (optional) |
The glossary entries for access control and gate code explain the basics.
Four types of system
1. Standalone keypad
The controller stores codes inside the keypad. You program codes at the site, or by phone with the manufacturer's tools.
- Good for: small sites, tight budgets, no internet.
- Limits: you must be at the keypad to add or remove codes, and nothing happens automatically when a tenant is late or leaves.
- Ask: how many codes it holds, how many times a code can be reused, and how you get a log.
2. Networked (software-linked) gate
The controller connects to the internet by wired line, wifi or cellular. Your management software sends it codes.
- Good for: unmanned and semi-managed facilities, remote owners.
- What it adds: codes change from your desk or phone. When a tenant rents online, a code can be issued. When rent is past due, it can be switched off. When they pay, it comes back.
- Limits: needs a reliable connection. Ask what happens when the connection fails.
See gate access to see how Stitch ties a code to the tenant account.
3. Cellular gate
A networked gate that uses a mobile data plan instead of wired internet. It is a good fit for sites with no landline or broadband.
- Good for: rural sites. See the rural self storage guide.
- Limits: coverage at the gate. Test your phone signal at the keypad before you buy. There may be a monthly data fee.
4. Unit-level smart locks and door alarms
Instead of, or as well as, a gate, each unit has an electronic lock or a sensor that notes when a door opens.
- Smart locks: open with a code or phone. Good for buildings with interior hallways or where no fence is possible.
- Door alarms: a sensor on each door reports opens and closes. See door alarm.
- Limits: cost scales with unit count, batteries need changing, and install takes time.
Comparison
| Standalone keypad | Networked gate | Cellular gate | Unit-level locks or alarms | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Change codes remotely | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Needs internet | No | Yes | No (uses mobile data) | Usually yes |
| Automatic lockout for late rent | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Works when the connection drops | Yes | Depends | Depends | Depends |
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Higher | Higher | Highest at scale |
| Best for | Staffed or small sites | Unmanned sites | Rural sites | Interior units, no fence |
Ask each vendor for costs in writing. We do not quote prices here because they vary.
How a gate connects to your software
Ask the gate maker and the software vendor whether they have a direct integration. A connected system works like this:
- A tenant rents a unit online and pays.
- The software sends a code to the gate controller.
- The tenant gets the code by text or email.
- The gate logs each entry with the code, date and time.
- If rent goes unpaid past your set date, the software disables the code.
- When the tenant pays, the code is enabled again.
- At move-out, the code is deleted.
Without a connection, you do every one of those steps by hand at the keypad.
Questions to ask before you buy
- Does it integrate with my management software, and who supports the link?
- What connection does it need, and how much data?
- What happens in a power cut or internet outage? Does the gate open, stay shut, or stay as it is?
- How long does the battery last?
- How many codes does it hold, and are codes unique per tenant?
- Does it keep a log, and for how long?
- Can I set gate hours by tenant or unit type?
- Is there a manual override for emergencies, such as a fire department key box?
- Who installs and who fixes it? What is the response time?
- What are the monthly fees?
Gate hours and codes
Decide your gate hours (for example, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and put them in the lease. Give each tenant a unique code, never a shared one. Remove codes when a tenant leaves or is locked out. See the gate code policy template.
Gate lockout and the law
Turning off a code is a form of denying access, like overlocking. State rules vary. Washington, for example, allows denying access after six consecutive days of unpaid rent if the rental agreement says so (RCW 19.150.030). Other states differ. Put the right in your lease, follow your state's timing and notice rules, and restore access at once after payment. Look up your state at self storage lien laws and review with your attorney. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Pair the gate with cameras and lighting
A gate keeps out casual visitors but does not stop everything. Add cameras at the gate and along the aisles, lighting, and signs. See security and cameras and rules and signs.
Safety and access for emergencies
Plan how fire trucks and ambulances get in. Many places require a key box or a gate that opens on power loss; check with your local fire department and building office. Test the emergency release every few months.
A simple buying plan
- List your needs: staffed or not, internet or not, unit count.
- Test cell signal at the gate.
- Get three written quotes.
- Ask each for references from facilities your size.
- Check software compatibility before signing.
- Plan the install, the code import and a test day.
- Tell tenants how to use it.
Mistakes
- Buying hardware before checking signal.
- One shared code for everyone.
- No emergency access plan.
- Locking tenants out without lease language.
- Forgetting to remove codes after move-out. See move-outs.
A cost and ownership checklist
Prices vary too much to quote, so build a table and fill it in with real bids.
| Line | Bid A | Bid B | Bid C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gate operator and install | |||
| Keypad or reader | |||
| Controller and software | |||
| Monthly software or data fee | |||
| Backup battery | |||
| Cameras or sensors added | |||
| Warranty (length, what is covered) | |||
| Response time for repairs | |||
| Total in year one |
Add up the whole first year, then compare. A cheap gate with a high monthly fee can cost more than a pricier one with none.
Day-to-day use
- New tenant. Rent online, pay, receive a code. Test it the first day.
- Forgotten code. Resend by text after confirming the tenant's identity. Do not read codes over the phone to an unverified caller.
- Visitors. Decide whether tenants may bring guests, and say so in the lease.
- Late rent. The code is turned off on the date your lease and state allow. See overlocking storage units.
- Move-out. The code is deleted on the confirmed date.