MakeSpace is Cloud Storage for Physical Things

MakeSpace is a New York City startup that’s transforming the self-storage industry. It allows users to store and access their stuff whenever they need it, without the inconveniences of visiting an actual storage facility. The company recently expanded their services nationally, vs. only operating in New York City previously.

Here’s how it works: Users request boxes to be delivered to them. They fill these up with stuff they want to store, and then MakeSpace will have it picked up and stored in their storage facility. Each box is catalogued with a photo, making it easy for the user to see their inventory on their account and request to have boxes sent whenever and wherever they need it (in the contiguous United States). Pricing starts at $25 per month for 4 boxes, with each additional box costing $6.25. It’s free to get the boxes delivered and to ship them back to MakeSpace, and each subsequent delivery costs $20, dropping $1 for every month the user stores their stuff.

MakeSpace is disrupting a $24 billion dollar storage industry in the U.S., removing the cumbersome nature of traditional self-storage, and replacing it with a seamless, technology-based and on-demand service that solves a lot of pain points for a lot of people. The company has received $10.1 million in funding, with high-profile investors like Ashton Kutcher and New York Knicks player Carmelo Anthony.

Why use MakeSpace?

• For users living in small apartments, there’s often little room for storage. A service like MakeSpace allows users to store stuff they don’t use often (like winter clothing and other off-season items), de-clutter and maximize their space.
• For users who are moving, they can “upload” their stuff on MakeSpace and have it shipped to their new home.
• For travelers always on the go, Makespace can ship items to any destination in 48 States, eliminating the need for travelers to bring certain items with them everywhere they go.

“Cloud storage for physical things has always been central to our idea of what MakeSpace should be, and with this new iteration we’re continuing to realize that vision,” said Sam Rosen, founder and CEO of MakeSpace. “Your stuff should be accessible in the same way your documents, music, and photos are: on any device, in any location, at any time. It’s all about accessibility.”

This accessibility is significant because people’s things can now be “uploaded” and “downloaded” on demand. What’s also exciting is the potential evolution of a service like this, where users could allow friends and family to view their stuff, allowing for renting, borrowing, buying, selling and donating of items on the platform (MakeSpace already provides donation bags which they deliver to Goodwill). The items are catalogued, easily viewable, and with seamless pick up and delivery logistics, a system like this would make a lot of sense. This innovative company is definitely one to look out for.