Safebox24, Safe Deposit Box Warsaw – a traditional service with a modern twist

Until now, a safe deposit box was primarily associated with a bank safe. Banks such as PKO BP, PEKAO SA, mBank, and Santander (formerly BZ WBK) offered access to safe deposit boxes in their branches. Bank employees primarily offered safe deposit boxes and vaults to their customers, and access to the safe deposit box was available during specific branch opening hours. For some time now, safe deposit boxes have been a scarce service, and renting them is becoming increasingly difficult. Banks are closing large bank branches, where safe deposit boxes were typically located, and bank employees are moving to modern, lightweight customer service formats in shopping malls or smaller facilities. Bank vaults and safe deposit boxes are often facilities from the early 1990s, based on contemporary technologies and security systems.

Safebox24 is a response to these market changes – the first modern, certified vault in Poland offering safe deposit boxes for rent in central Warsaw. The vault was built from scratch in 2019, received the necessary certification from the Institute of Precision Mechanics, and has been offering modern safe deposit boxes since January 2020. The safe deposit boxes are available in three sizes, each of which can accommodate A4 documents, among other things. Unlike a bank vault or safe deposit box, the Safebox24 vault allows for the storage of cash and even weapons. Safebox24 is also considering offering services for works of art. The service is very reasonably priced – the smallest Safebox24 safe deposit box starts at PLN 999.00 per year, and the largest safe deposit box starts at PLN 1999.00 per year. It's increasingly difficult to compare the cost to a bank safe deposit box, as bank safe deposit boxes are practically unavailable.

A major advantage of Safebox24 is access to the vault – the safe deposit box is available to customers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The facility was designed in accordance with current, stringent security requirements. At the same time, intelligent technologies are used to enable 24/7 access to the vault and safe deposit box for customers. This is a significant advantage compared to banks, where safe deposit boxes are only available during specific hours.

Another new feature is a biometric key, enabling the identification of each customer and granting access to the vault and safe deposit box. A biometric safe deposit box offers incomparably greater security for customers, as the biometric key cannot be stolen, lost, or counterfeited. The solutions used are certified by agencies such as the FBI and are used in government buildings with the highest security requirements. In comparison, a bank safe deposit box is opened with a traditional key, which can be lost or stolen.

The Safebox24 safe deposit box is a service offered to both private and business users. The vault can be used to store cash, savings, gold, diamonds, as well as sentimental items, important documents, and backup copies. It's worth considering a safe deposit box for both personal and business use.

Please note that safe deposit boxes in banks and private operators cannot store items originating from crime or items prohibited by regulations – these typically include explosives, chemicals, liquids, food, or ammunition. If the depository suspects the deposit of prohibited items, it has the right to request the client to remove the contents of the safe deposit box. Ultimately, it may terminate the contract if the facility's regulations and security have been violated.

Confidentiality and discretion are key aspects of running a vault and depository business. Safebox24 treats customer discretion as a top priority. Safebox24 customers have independent access to their safe deposit boxes, unlike a bank safe deposit box that often requires assistance. A discreet room is also available to customers, allowing them to deposit or retrieve items without monitoring, in complete confidentiality.

An equally important aspect is the personal data of vault owners. All data relating to our clients and vaults is properly encrypted and stored in accordance with AML and GDPR requirements. Furthermore, the vault is a cybersecure facility, prepared for modern technological threats. However, it should be remembered that in justified cases described in the regulations, such as criminal proceedings, every entity operating in Poland is obligated to disclose information under applicable law, upon request of authorized authorities.

Safes in homes, apartments, or businesses are certainly a worthwhile alternative, but they typically don't offer such high levels of security. Considering the price of the Safebox24 service, it's worth considering renting a safe deposit box when going on vacation or for an extended business trip. You can rent a safe deposit box for as little as one month or as long as ten years.

An additional major advantage of Safebox24 is the insurance rates and limits offered individually for each locker. The insurance offer is very attractive and worth comparing with property insurance for your home or business. When comparing Safebox24's offer to banks, it's also important to remember that the contents of bank lockers are typically not insured, and that lockers are not covered by the Bank Guarantee Fund.

Finally, it's worth noting recent events that have changed realities around the world. The coronavirus pandemic has changed the lives of most of us, both in terms of work, home life, safety, and the future. The issue of safe deposit boxes was raised by our clients – some of them had no access to bank vaults or their own lockers. Bank branches were temporarily closed, and appointments to visit the vault had to be made several weeks in advance. This situation did not apply to Safebox24 clients – we guarantee access to the locker for our clients without any restrictions, even during this difficult time. The Warsaw vault is regularly ozonated and disinfected. Our clients do not need to have any contact with staff after signing the lease, and most formalities and the rental of the locker can be arranged via email. This is worth considering in the context of the second wave of the pandemic and beyond.