Ways To Save Space In Your Warehouse or Distribution Centre
Posted on 18th October 2018
Over-aisle storage
If you don’t already have storage above your aisles this is a great place to start finding space. Adding beams above cross-aisles can provide a significant number of new pallet positions.
Over-dock storage
Utilizing space above dock doors can be achieved using standard pallet rack or specially designed over-dock systems. Frequently this space is used to store pallets, cardboard boxes, stretch wrap, etc. Standard pallet racking can be used, but a wide variety of specialized rack is available just for this purpose. Impact resistance is important because of the exposure to increased forklift traffic at the dock doors.
Go Up
Add extensions to existing uprights or buy taller uprights to make maximum use of available clear height. Extensions can be bolted onto existing frames to provide as much height as is necessary. Mezzanines can provide space for dense shelving necessary for slow movers.
Move Beam Level and Change Pallet Profiles
Careful attention to pallet dimensions can allow some facilities to position beam levels so that no more than 4-6” is wasted for pallet lift-off. Often an entire additional beam level of storage can be created by reducing wasted beam spacing.
Narrow Your Aisles
Dramatic increases in pallets stored per square footage can be achieved by converting from traditional racking configuration to a narrow aisle set up.
Change Your Storage Medium
If you currently have all adjustable pallet racking you may want to take a long hard look at some alternatives. All products in a warehouse rarely move in and out at the same speed and in the same quantity which means one storage medium rarely works for all inventory.
Some products may be better suited to shelving, while others may fit in drive-in or push-back. A mezzanine or vertical lift may be a great time and space saver for your inventory.
Really fast-movers that are palletized can be stacked may be better floor stacked thus eliminating the need for racking altogether. Picking from racking may be better suited to picking from shelving to reduce wasted space.
Carton flow racks also offer high density piece picking alternatives. Push-back, drive-in and pallet flow systems all increase storage density, but it is critical that they fit the right application.
Slow movers, seasonal products, multiple pallets per SKU items, etc. all are great places to start looking for storage alternatives.
Get in Touch with The Pallet Racking People
If you want to explore your storage options, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 0800 345 7088 or send an email to sales@advanced-handling.co.uk
Make sure you follow #TeamAdvanced on Social media for all our latest news and offers.