Finding Ways to Increase Warehouse Storage Space

My Current warehouse storage is at 80% of total available floorspace. How can I use my current storage space more effectively?

There are two factors that must be considered:

1. Storage Density: high-density storage increases space utilization, but minimizes individual pallet load access.
2. Product Selectivity: direct face access (selectivity) to all pallets typically requires more aisle floor space.

For many operations, balancing these factors with a combination of high density (floor bulk, drive-in & pallet flow racks) and single deep selective rack systems provide the best solution. For other operations, the storage system design is driven by space factors, such as height of the building and the aisle spacing that will require specialized forklifts that can operate in smaller aisles.

A typical rack layout has three widths:

• Standard Aisle- 10’ wide,
• Narrow Aisle- 8’-9’ wide,
• Very Narrow Aisle- 7’ or less.

These aisle widths determine the type of forklifts that are recommended for noted spacing.

Standard aisle spacing utilizes right-angle stacking, with counter-balance forklifts such as 3- and 4-wheel sit-down forklifts or 3-wheel stand-up trucks. Narrow aisle forklifts also use right-angle stacking forklifts, but use ‘front end’ outriggers for stability, reducing the overall length of the forklift allowing it to operate in a narrower aisle. The very narrow aisle widths allow swing forklift technology usage that can service higher rack heights and narrow aisles. This type of high density technology will result in an increase in forklift expenditures.

There are options available that can allow you to meet your operational needs and budget. American Surplus Inc. has been in the used storage and material handling business selling these systems at 50-65% less than new for over 30 years, assisting its customers in solving these, and many other, system problems. Storage density problems can be solved in many ways beyond the rack configurations previously mentioned. Our facility is stocked with a multitude of used complimentary storage systems that can increase your efficiency. Our systems specialists will demonstrate that expertise prior to you spending any money. Challenge our team to prove it. We’ll take the time and effort to show you what and how. You will be satisfied.