The biggest challenge faced by warehouse managers and management is the lack of available space. This problem leads to reduced storage and material handling. In the long run, it can have adverse effects on the total productivity of the operation.

For this, optimization of warehouse spaces is a gamechanger and problem solver. Optimization in industrial warehouse storage not only reduces the overall expense of relocation but also avoids the use of third-party off-site storage facilities.

Many innovative warehouse shelving options expand upon the given space and at the same time, offer smoother functioning. In this article, we shall learn about various warehouse storage solutions, that can contribute to making industrial shelving more efficient.

Why is industrial shelving required?

Large warehouses are like storerooms, where a company’s inventory is stored and shipped from as per the orders. It’s the favourite thing done by e-commerce sites that ships the day to day things we order online. However, many do not realize that such inventories require large spaces to store tonnes of products.

The goal is space utilization so that the quantity of inventory can be stored in your current shelving and racking system. Long span shelving has many advantages, some of which are mentioned as follows:

Monitor current capacity and space utilization:

The layout in warehouses that have already been laid cannot be changed until one knows which area works and which do not. Monitoring the current layout and space utilization is the essential and first step for optimization.

To do this, gathering quantifiable data like total warehouse space, rack systems, shelving configurations, storing and picking efficiency should be known. This data can be later processed on software programs that help in configuring optimal layout solutions.

Aisle width reduction:

Conventional aisles were designed so that they accommodate standard loading and retrieval equipment. However, by reducing their width, i.e., by increasing the number of storage racks on pallet racking systems, more stock room can be made.

Make use of vertical space:

Vertical space in warehouses is an underutilized element. To store materials on the upper tiers, one may need to invest in additional equipment if the forklifts cannot do it. A vertical lift module is an automated system that runs the warehouse’s complete height and protects worker safety. Also, this technique makes use of upper racks and shelves upon expanding them.

Installation of Mezzanines:

A mezzanine area serves as an alternative to using the vertical space in warehouses. A mezzanine area offers a better cost-efficient solution to maximize upon given space. Moreover, mezzanine installation is quick and simple, which will avoid disruptions to implement smooth warehouse operations.

Storage locations consolidation:

Consolidating inventory into a single SKU location for easier loading and better retrieval is a good option. Due to poor inventory management and overstock issues, multiple items with the same SKU are being stored in various places around a warehouse. Steel shelving and wire decking methods can remedy this.