UPS announces launch of self-storage service
The logistics giants, UPS, has announced the launch of a new service called Storage on Demand.
UPS’ innovation enables its customers to request the delivery of empty storage bins directly to its home or business through a mobile-friendly website. It then allows customers to fill the bins with belongings and seal them once packed before arranging pickup for its items to be driven to a secure, nearby UPS facility for storage.
Through “valet storage”, it allows UPS’ customers to use the website in order to retrieve its warehoused items and have them delivered back to their front door with same day service.
“Storage on Demand solves a problem that is becoming nearly universal as our population and demographics evolve. Millennials are moving into small homes in crowded urban areas. Baby boomers are downsizing for retirement. And small businesses need space for excess inventory,” commented Darren Kamensek, strategy and innovation manager for UPS and one of the co-founders of Storage on Demand. “The problem is that there aren’t many services that truly provide end-to-end storage and quick, easy retrieval of goods – Storage on Demand solves all of that.”
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The news follows UPS’ intention to increase its fleet following the addition of 6,000 natural gas vehicles. The plans showcase a three-year commitment to invest $450mn in the expansion of UPS’ alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicle fleet.
The firm are also set to convert 33 diesel vehicles to electric and hybrid models. “Fleet electrification is one of the areas where we seek to act as an industry leader,” said Luke Wake, Director of Automotive Engineering & Advanced Technology Group, UPS International. “Our operations are well suited toward electric vehicle technologies but the lack of vehicle availability continues to prove frustrating. As one of the world’s leading logistics providers, we want to show with these conversions that the technology is here today, it’s real, it works and we want to encourage the mass adoption of commercial electric vehicles in the marketplace.”
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