Optimizing Storage to Manage Costs in Your Business
Tips for Optimizing Warehouse Storage Space Utilization
Following these steps can help your business minimize wasted space and increase storage capacity.
Plan for Size and Demand
Like most business-related things, your warehouse management system should start with planning. Specifically, you should arrange warehouse inventory according to demand and size.
Large items should go near the bottom of storage racks, while in-demand items should be easy to access. Warehouse management software contains forecasting algorithms to help you accurately predict inventory trends for better organizing.
Create Narrow Aisles
Another way to maximize warehouse space utilization is to make corridors narrower. Reducing aisle width can increase warehouse storage floor space by as much as 15%. At the same time, you can maximize vertical space by stacking storage racks.
Keep in mind there must be at least 18 inches of clearance between the top rack and the warehouse's fire suppression system.
Get Custom Plastic Pallets Design
One of the biggest space wasters in warehouse storage is using ill-fitting pallets. Standard wood pallets can be useful for certain applications. However, manufacturers can tailor custom design pallets to fit the specific dimensions of your products and warehouses.
Custom design pallets and storage containers can directly match the dimensions of your inventory. As a result, they reduce the dead space between each individual product storage area.
Minimize Pallet Storage with Reusable Plastic Pallets
You also need an efficient way to store pallets when you are not using them. One way to reduce pallet storage space is to get plastic pallets.
Reusable plastic pallets are not only hygienic and durable; their precise molding allows you to stack them on top of one another when not in use.
You can also use half pallets to reduce white space between inventory. Half pallets cost less than full-size standard pallets, making them highly cost-effective.
Warehouse Maintenance
An often-underappreciated part of efficient inventory storage is prioritizing warehouse repair and maintenance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to significant operational issues that can reduce productivity and injure employees.
Warehouse maintenance includes monitoring rack condition, power equipment usage, and pallet integrity. Focusing on warehouse maintenance prevents operational breakdowns and improves workflow.
Drop Shipping for Larger Items
Drop shipping involves moving products directly from manufacturer to retailer without using a warehouse floor. For larger products like furniture or equipment, you should consider dropshipping to reduce storage area usage. Drop shipping can also be more cost-effective since you won't have to worry about transportation and storage costs for drop-shipped items.
Build a Mezzanine
If your warehouse’s layout allows, installing a mezzanine can provide additional space. Mezzanines can go over shipping areas for non-high-bay storage functions. Mezzanines are expensive, permanent installations but can significantly optimize storage space.
Optimize Your Warehouse Space Utilization
Optimizing storage space to manage costs in your businesses is an important budgetary consideration. If you are looking for help in optimizing your warehouse space, consider contacting a local pallet management company to talk about your storage needs, pallet pricing, and more.
