When you have an overflowing warehouse, every inch matters. A good thing about warehouses is that they are typically tall, empty halls with lots of space up above, perfect for adding vertical storage solutions.
Vertical storage solutions can help you maximize the space that you have in your storage, but you can also upgrade to automated storage systems to even further maximize your time and space.
However, which one should you choose to optimize your storage capacity? Find out more about warehouse vertical storage systems, and their benefits.
The benefits of vertical storage in a warehouse
Adding vertical storage to your warehouse has benefits beyond just giving you extra room for storage. Let’s see what they are:
- Cost-saving: increasing your storage vertically is much more cost effective and simpler than increasing the floor plan. Plus, in a tall empty warehouse, it makes much more sense to go up, than to expand.
- Better organization: In a vertical storage solution, your eye is naturally drawn up, and it is easier and quicker to spot and find what you need if it is neatly organized.
- Security for employees: By keeping your most-selling items closer to the ground, the warehouse workers won’t have to use as many tools (such as a forklift), successfully preventing accidents.
- Time-saving measures: Employees can spend less time getting similar items if you group them into a single location vertical storage unit. This could increase productivity and result in quicker deliveries.
How to take advantage of vertical space: warehouse vertical storage options
In warehousing, there isn’t always a single vertical storage option that works for everyone. Several solutions may bring specific advantages. The following are some of the most used techniques for vertical storage.
Pallet rack systems
One of the most straightforward options for vertical warehouse storage is pallet racking systems. This is when the palettes are arranged on metal racks in rows. Therefore, the staff members can access pallets on the floor from the ground and need to use a forklift to access those higher up.
Pallet racks are among the most affordable storage options because of their straightforward designs. Additionally, they are quite simple to assemble in various warehouse layouts.
Pallet flow racks
Pallet flow racks are vertical storage solutions that are constructed to flow down as each one is removed, like a tube sock. You take one, and the next one takes its place.
With loading on the higher end and unloading on the lower end, the flow racks are constructed on a tilt.
Palettes are moved toward the unloading area by sliding downward on rollers or conveyors, and they follow the principle of “first in, first out” (FIFO), where the oldest products are emptied first. In the case of perishables like food, this can greatly reduce waste.
The rack system doesn’t need any electricity because it moves objects using gravity, making them an excellent choice for energy-efficient storage.
Vertical carousels
These are automated systems that move shelves in a circular motion, similar to a ferris wheel. They bring items to a comfortable lifting height for workers, allowing you to eliminate the risks associated with forklifts and ladders.
Mezzanine structures
Mezzanines are semi-permanent structures that are built between the base and ceiling of your warehouse.
If a permanent second floor is out of your budget, a mezzanine structure could serve as a good compromise, giving you an extra floor to store tools, equipment, and palettes.
You can even turn the mezzanine floor into an office space, saving you money on rent.
Models of vertical storage lifts
Vertical lift modules are another type of automated vertical storage system that moves goods along vertical shelves. A warehouse employee can simply scan a barcode, and an automated system will find the right shelf and transfer the item to an unloading station.
This model eliminates the need for warehouse staff to bend down to gather products or operate a forklift, decreasing the possibilities of someone being hurt.
This is why using automated warehouse picking systems like Modula Australia is crucial. In addition to streamlining and optimizing processes, it also offers insightful data by tracking different warehouse characteristics, such as accesses, refills, stock levels, and numbers.
You can work more confidently and efficiently when you can achieve real-time inventory and stock control.
Conclusion
Vertical space in a warehouse can provide excellent additional storage space. What’s more, stacking up the inventory naturally draws your eyes up to have a better overview of your inventory.
Not every storage solution works for every storage unit, and the items sold. Depending on whether you sell perishables and need a FIFO system, or items that can be on the shelf for a long time, choose the best vertical storage solution for you!
Hopefully, this article will give you insight into the best solution for your business.