When the storage capacity of a warehouse distribution centre surpasses the 80 per cent utilisation level, there is usually a simultaneous reduction in the levels of warehouse productivity. This can then result in overcrowded shipping and receiving docks, products and fire code violations flooding the aisles, and a whole variety of other safety hazards affecting the warehouse storage capacity.
If you are looking for ways to increase overall productivity and mitigate safety hazards, you can begin by increasing your warehouse storage capacity. Here are our top tips to help you get started.
Evaluate your Storage Equipment
You can use the picking frequencies of your products to establish the reserve and active storage requirements. From here, you can now begin to explore the world of industrial shelving for the purpose of properly optimising your storage space.
Narrow your Aisles
Creating VNAs (Very Narrow Aisles) can be an effective way of storing a wide range of products that you will not access very often such as seasonal goods. Though the decreased width can limit access to a single vehicle or specialised forklift, it is a tried and true approach of instantly increasing warehouse storage capacity.
Consider an Inventory Reduction
This solution, in theory, seems rather simple. However, without regular checks on your inventory, excess and outdated products can accumulate at a fast rate. If your inventory seems a bit high upon review, submit to your forecasting and tracking data to help you re-distribute inventory levels. Doing this is an extremely easy method for utilising your warehouse space and reducing storage costs.
Execute Slotting Analysis
When you effectively slot a warehouse, you will quickly pick out any aspects that are being over utilised. From here, you can then improve your throughput. You can begin by making a map of the necessary amount of storage for each item in your inventory. Be sure to do this after each season or product change. This is so you can keep up with evolving storage needs.
Build Up
Cities that are limited from expanding out build up. This same principle can be applied to how you grow your warehouse storage capacity. You can make the most of the vertical space above your pallets by investing in higher pallet racks, or even a mezzanine floor.
Re-configure
Begin by measuring the physical layout of your space. From this point, you can make advances to improve the product flow throughout the entire facility. While doing this, you must remember to consider things such as shipping volumes and peak trends. Doing so will effectively streamline your warehouse operations.
Talk to Monarch Shelving Ltd
In the end, after you have made the necessary changes and you feel you still require additional warehouse storage space, then perhaps you would benefit from a professional warehouse design. Talking to experienced professionals such as Monarch Shelving Ltd can certainly help put you in the right direction. Get in touch to find out more about how our products and services can help you get the most out of your warehouse storage capacity.
