Self Storage Gate Systems UK: PIN, App and ANPR Compared
By The Unit Manager Pro Team · 1 May 2026 · 3 min read · Updated 24 October 2026
Compare gate controls against site traffic, customer needs and an installer’s safety assessment. Obtain a complete installed quote rather than pricing only the reader.
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PIN, app or ANPR: match the method to your visitors
A PIN is entered by a visitor; an app uses a device/account; ANPR identifies a registration plate. Ask how shared vehicles, changed plates, visitors and inaccessible devices are handled. Each method needs a suitable exception process.
Which gate systems connect to your storage software?
Ask the installer for the controller model, the supported connection and who maintains the link to your rental software. Unit Manager Pro's native gate and lock integrations are on the roadmap, so do not assume that a brand name, an API or a stored access code means your installed controller will connect.
Test power cuts, network loss and shared vehicles
Test a power cut, a lost connection, a vehicle following another through the gate and a visitor with no code. Make sure someone can always leave the site, and have the safety design reviewed by the gate installer.
Gate access and overdue rent: keep them separate
A gate can be programmed to refuse a tenant, but that does not give you the right to. Check the agreement, local law and notice requirements first, and treat a payment status in software as information, not a gate command.
Price the whole installed gate system
Price the gate operator, reader or ANPR camera, controller, safety devices, power, connectivity, installation, recurring licences and maintenance together, rather than comparing reader prices alone.
Plan access and rentals together
Send us your gate controller make and model in a demo request and we will confirm what is available today. Start a 14-day free trial to set up bookings, agreements and billing now.
Frequently asked questions
What type of gate system suits a self storage facility?
It depends on your visitors and site layout. PINs suit most drive-up sites, apps suit tenants with compatible phones and ANPR identifies registration plates but needs an exception process for shared vehicles.
Does Unit Manager Pro integrate with my gate or smart lock?
Native hardware integrations are on the roadmap, so compatibility has to be confirmed for your exact controller and workflow. Request a hardware compatibility review in a demo before relying on automated access.
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