Are you facing challenges in making the most of your vertical warehouse space? With the increasing costs of real estate, warehousing, construction, and labour, it can be difficult to achieve floor-to-rafter storage and retrieval in your facility.
But don't worry, there's a solution! You can optimise your warehouse operations by implementing the power of vertical warehouse storage.
Traditional horizontal storage methods can consume valuable floor space, thereby limiting your storage and workflow capacity. However, by utilising the vertical space from the floor to the rafters, you can significantly increase your storage capabilities without having to expand your facility.
Today, you will learn how vertical warehousing can be maximising storage with vertical space and why you should do it. Keep reading to learn more!
Vertical Warehouse Storage Systems
Vertical warehouse storage systems, such as longspan racking and mezzanine platforms, are useful tools for organising warehouse space.
However, you can take your warehouse operations to the next level by incorporating automated technologies such as Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and conveyors.
These systems efficiently use overhead space, allowing for better warehouse optimisation and improving access to stored items. This streamlined approach enhances productivity, reduces labour costs, minimises picking times, and eliminates errors.
Moreover, vertical storage operations boost operational efficiency and enhance safety. Clear aisleways and reduced clutter by utilising floor space more effectively, decrease the risk of accidents and create a safer work environment.
Benefits Of Vertical Storage
Increases floor space
A vertical warehouse storage system offers several advantages, among which is the increase of floor space. By stacking pallet racks vertically, more storage space is allocated while the floor space is opened up.
This provides more room for staff to navigate the warehouse on foot or using forklifts, resulting in faster and more efficient picking, retrieval, and fulfilment operations.
Improves storage organisation
An efficient and productive warehouse facility requires proper storage organisation. Vertical storage systems are an effective way to organise and store different types of products.
Selecting the appropriate type of vertical racking can significantly enhance the efficiency of your warehouse operations. This can lead to faster material handling, streamlined order processing, and on-time deliveries, collectively improving the organisation's profitability.
A more organised warehouse can reduce picking errors and prevent accidental damage.
Improves warehouse safety
Management must prioritise warehouse safety due to the significant hazards involved in daily material handling and the use of heavy-duty goods, with multiple fatalities occurring in the storage sector every year.
Vertical storage effectively creates a safer working environment free of clutter, overloaded racks, and trip hazards.
However, it is crucial to ensure that all racking is installed properly and in compliance with the guidelines to ensure safety. In fact, poorly secured vertical storage racks can be even more dangerous than traditional floor-based storage.
Setting Up Vertical Warehousing and Vertical Warehouse Storage Operations
If you need to set up vertical storage in your warehouse, you need to consider a few things first.
- Start by looking at your available space and what kind of storage you need.
- You should examine your inventory and the orders you manage to determine what kind of storage you need.
- Think about things like the size, weight, and how fast items move. Once you know what kind of storage you need, you should consider the layout of your warehouse.
- Are there any obstacles or limitations that could make installing vertical storage difficult? Working with experienced professionals who can help you develop the right solution for your specific needs is important.
You should also ensure that your chosen storage option can grow and change with your business. As your business grows, you'll need more space, so make sure you select a flexible solution that can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Warehouse Organisation Tips
- Store items that are used together or belong to the same category in close proximity to each other. This makes it easier to locate and retrieve items when needed.
- Label shelves, bins, and containers with clear and descriptive labels. This helps warehouse staff quickly identify the contents of each storage area.
- Arrange your inventory so that older items are placed in front of newer ones. This ensures that older stock is used first, reducing the risk of expired or obsolete items.
- Make use of tall shelves and racks to maximise vertical storage space. This allows you to store more items without taking up additional floor space.
- Keep aisles clear of clutter and debris to prevent accidents and improve efficiency.
By following these simple warehouse organisation tips, you can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and create a safer working environment for your staff.
Final Thoughts
Vertical warehousing maximises space, enhances efficiency, and reduces costs. Innovative storage systems and automation tech streamline the organisation, speed retrieval, and improve safety standards.
Following proper warehouse organisation tips and regular maintenance ensures efficient space and resource utilisation. It will unlock the full potential of warehouse space while maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards.
If you own a warehouse and are looking for shelving and racking in Australia, contact OZI Racking.