The recent NPSA Fall Retreat in Seattle made one thing clear: AI in portable storage is no longer a distant concept. It’s here, it’s practical, and it’s reshaping the industry.
As the CEO of Omni~View, I work with a team of ten developers and leaders who use AI daily. We see incredible potential, but we also recognize the need for caution and responsibility.
This blog outlines key takeaways from the NPSA Fall Retreat and lessons learned from personal experience with AI that every portable storage leader should consider.
AI in Portable Storage is a Tool, Not a Decision-Maker
Think of AI as the world’s smartest intern.
It can draft emails, generate quotes, or surface insights instantly, but it doesn’t know your business like you do, and it doesn’t have your judgment or experience.
AI should be a resource, but never a replacement or the final authority.
Keep Security and Integration Top of Mind
Before adopting any tool, evaluate:
- How does it use your data?
- Does it integrate securely with your systems?
- Is it supported long-term?
In our industry, where customer trust is paramount, security must come first.
The Winning Formula is Human + AI
Portable storage is about more than logistics, it’s about trust.
AI can automate routines and make processes faster, but customers moving their belongings or renting a container for their business want to hear a human voice and see a human face.
Use AI to enhance relationships, not replace them.
Start Small, Experiment, and Audit
Adopting AI in portable storage is like learning to drive. The technology is powerful, but it requires training, guardrails, and practice.
Start with low-risk applications such as internal processes, customer FAQs, or simple automations. Audit regularly, and keep your team in control.
The Bold Will Lead
Portable storage companies that thrive in the next decade will embrace AI. They’ll use it thoughtfully to solve bottlenecks, empower employees, and create new value for customers.
Omni~View is committed to helping our industry lead that charge.
AI is not replacing us, it’s augmenting us. And when used responsibly, it will help deliver better service, faster innovation, and deeper trust.
Find Out How to Work Smarter
In your personalized demo, we’ll show you how Omni~View connects billing, customer info, contracts, inventory management, dispatch, and more – without a single spreadsheet.