Automated vs Manual Safe (Certis CISCO Safe Deposit & More)
There are numerous options for safe deposit box services provided by various companies in Singapore, all with subtle differences.
In this article, we'll delve into the comparison between automated and manual safe deposit services, and compare the differences between 3 prominent safe deposit services—Certis CISCO, SECOM and STARVAULT.
Comparing Different Safe Deposit Services: Automated vs Manual
Manual | Manual safe deposit boxes are commonly offered by security companies (e.g., Certis CISCO, SECOM), gold trading companies, and traditional banks. Here’s how they typically work:
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Automated | Automated safe deposit services have different security processes. Here is what providers like STARVAULT offer:
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Security & Privacy: Automated vs Manual Safe
While manual ones — such as a Certis CISCO safe deposit box — are secure, they involve staff interaction and dual-key access. This can be a concern if you prioritise complete privacy, since someone else is always present when you access your valuables and important documents.
In contrast, an automated safe deposit box, like the one provided by STARVAULT, offers enhanced security through multi-layered access controls. Their manless vault system ensures no staff or other customers are granted access to the vault area, providing a higher level of privacy.
Safe Deposit Box/ Feature | Certis CISCO (source) | SECOM (source) | STARVAULT |
CCTV monitoring and on-site security | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
In-person verification and physical key | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Email and SMS OTP Verification | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Staff access to vault | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
Multi-layered access control system (facial recognition, card access, PIN code, fingerprint, physical key) | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Price Comparison
Pricing/cost typically depends on box sizes, with the Certis safe deposit box price varying the most, since it gives you the most options.
Additionally, it's also important to consider any additional costs that might be associated with the service, such as the minimum contract period required.
*annual rental fees
Convenience
Convenience, including operating hours and registration process, are also factors to consider. This was especially apparent during situations like the COVID-19 pandemic, where manless automated systems like STARVAULT managed to remain easily accessible 24/7.
| Operations | Certis CISCO | SECOM | STARVAULT |
Operating hours | Monday – Saturday: 10am to 8pm Sunday & Public Holiday: 10am to 6pm | Mondays to Fridays 8.30am – 7.00pm Saturdays 8.30am – 5.30pm Sundays & Public Holidays Closed Eve of Chinese New Year 8:30am – 5:00pm | 24/7 access |
Registration process | Requires bank details for completion of GIRO form | Requires bank details for completion of GIRO form | Immediate registration, no need for bank account |
Storage options | Only safe deposit boxes | Only safe deposit boxes | Tied to a larger self-storage facility for bulky storage items |
Customer Service
Customer service is important as it can affect the ease of your move-in/move-out process, and having someone there to guide you through any queries will make the process infinitely smoother.
| Certis CISCO | SECOM | STARVAULT | |
Guided tour of facility | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Reviews | Testimonials | ✗ | Testimonials / Testimonials from main self-storage facility |
Move-In With STARVAULT Today
When it comes to safeguarding your valuable assets, STARVAULT aims to be honest and transparent with our customers to ensure your items remain intact and unchanged while in our safe deposit box.
We also ensure peace of mind through our multi-layered security measures, and convenience via our 24/7 access all year round, bank-independent storage, flexible pricing plans, and friendly customer service for our safekeeping services.
If you have any more concerns or enquiries, feel free to contact us or book a tour of STARVAULT’s facilities today. Our staff look forward to assisting you.
