Frequently Asked Authorized Agent Questions
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Why should I start a business in the portable storage sector?
Growth in the portable storage industry is rising quickly. The need for storage continues to
grow in accordance with the rise in population and wealth. We are on the brink of a very attractive business
opportunity. Our aim is to share our vision, passion and growth potential with like-minded
business people. This is a very young and dynamic sector, having started less than ten years ago.
The opportunity is well suited for individuals and small groups of entrepeneurs with drive, audacity
and a willingness to help blaze this relatively new trail.
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Why should I become an authorized agent with American Portable Mini Storage™ as opposed to other portable storage companies?
- Low cost of entry - American Portable's average start up costs and fees are lower than other portable storage companies.
- Nationally recognized brand name
- Higher profit margins due to low cost of entry
- Individual authorized agents determine pricing based on zip codes
- Software - Customer software as part of the authorized agent agreement:
- Rentals by customers (P.O.S.)
- Scheduling of deliveries
- Accounts Receivable
- Automatic Recurring Billing
- Interfaces to Back Office Accounting systems
- Innovation
- Originators of individual climate controlled units
- Delivery Scheduling:
- handheld computers
- track and synchronize deliveries
- provide delivery directions
- reschedule and confirm deliveries
- Automated call center software available soon
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What are the qualification criteria? What are the financial requirements?
We prefer to recruit a proven small business owner (entrepreneur) who has experience in running a business. Equally important is the attitude it takes to run it successfully and a willingness to go to any length to create success. To become an American Portable Mini Storage™ authorized agent, you need $25,000 cash (minimum authorized agent fee) and the initial operating capital. Start up cost has been under $100,000 in some instances.
- Initial Start-up Capital
- Property to store units (one acre or more)
- Storage Units: 12-24 units to start
- Vehicle to transport units
- Local Advertising
- Personnel:
- Customer Service Represenative
- Driver (Per trip compensation)
- Bookkeeper (part time)
- Typical office expenses (telephones, computers, rent, insurance, etc.)
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What are the agreement terms?
The agreement terms are a 10-year agreement with a self-renewing clause. American Portable
receives 7% of gross sales (royalty fee) for the life of the agreement
(a minimum of $5,000 per year). There is also a 3% marketing/advertising fee.
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How much can I expect to earn?
Growth is dependent upon the territory in which the authorized agent is established. In a sample
market with a population of a 350,000, revenues exceeding $25,000 monthly are
anticipated within 3 years. Our authorized agent consulting experts can help you
to estimate the market and earnings potential in your area.
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What are the operational requirements to become an American Portable Authorized Agent?
To operate successfully you need units, warehousing or open land for unit storage,
a customer service representative, driver(s), office space and business telephone numbers. As part of the
ramp-up procedure, we will train you and your staff on the use of our custom software and website
(provided), delivery, handling, storage and maintenance of units, local marketing and customer
interaction. Our objective of accelerated, planned growth is dependent on us making it as
painless as possible for you to get fully operational as quickly and painlessly as possible.
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What systems are in place to aid in the daily operation?
All American Portable authorized agents have access to safe, secure and flexible software that
allows online ordering and management by designated personnel. This software includes these
features to assist in daily business operations and logistics:
- Schedules all tasks and deliveries
- Custom pricing based on zip codes
- Create a price quotes based on zip codes and unit sizes
- Collects credit card payments
- Recurring billing
- Calculation of sales/use taxes
- Allows creation of custom notes (special instructions) based on zip codes for the customer
- Customer export function that allows the generation of lists for mass mailing
- Secure extranet website
- Financial and scheduling reports
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What marketing support/materials are authorized agents entitled to?
- Listings on major search directories
- Use of the American Portable Mini Storage™ brand
- Use of APMSI logos and identifying trademarks
- Website and Search Engine Optimization
- Business card layouts
- Brochure layouts
- Graphic standards for all other print media
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How are territories assigned?
Our business development group will work with you to select a
territory in your area. Our territories are generally drawn on
county lines. Target population is 350,000. Your initial authorized agent
fee guarantees exclusive access to your assigned territory.
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My question isn't answered here. What can I do?
We'd love to have to opportunity to discuss whether our objectives,
plans, priorities and vision matches yours. Fill out our
Authorized Agent Opportunity form, or,
if you prefer, call or email us. Thanks for your interest.
