By: Graci Woodworth, Storage.com
UrBin (pronounced yer-bin) is a self storage solution in New York City that does the work for its storage consumers. With a mission to provide convenience and affordability, UrBin’s storage process starts with storage bin delivery to the consumer, who fills up the bin(s). Any unused bins are refunded while filled bins are securely stored with 24-hour on-site management. Items in the bins can be retrieved by or delivered back to the consumer easily through an online inventory management system.
Founder Josh Ernst explains the unique story behind growing the brand during an interview with Storage.com.
The Big Idea
When asked about the catalyst for this non-traditional storage business, it was easy to tell that the inspiration came from firsthand knowledge.
“It started with my personal experience and the pain that I experienced when I first used storage here in [New York City],” Ernst says. “When I went to go get a storage unit myself, it was such a pain. I, of course, didn’t have a car, which is pretty typical for most urban dwellers.”
Ernst, who moved to New York from spacious Texas, needed storage to reclaim some space in his urban home, but he disliked the process of finding storage, which was much more challenging than he expected.
“My initial thoughts were…’Why is this the process? Why is this so antiquated? Could this be easier? Could there be a better customer experience, and could I help create that?’ Many sleepless nights and a lot of work later, we were able to build a business around all of it.”
What’s Next?
With UrBin services currently offered throughout the New York City and Northern New Jersey areas, it’s easy to wonder what will be next for Ernst and his endeavors.
In response to whether or not there are plans to expand UrBin to other locations in the future, Ernst laughs. “That’s the plan,” he says. “We have a few locations that we are starting to scout now. It’s a little bit early to unveil any plans, but that’s part of the goal. Definitely.”
Source: https://www.urbin-storage.com/
