If you are a warehouse manager, you know the struggle of maintaining the storage capacity. Inventory keeps piling up, orders keep coming in, and it can leave you with a space shortage. This is a very common scenario in most warehouses.
Expanding the warehouse may not always be an option, and you may have to manage all the new inventory in whatever space you have. But there are some simple yet effective storage solutions that you can use to maximise your warehouse storage capacity. For example, you can use pallet warehouse racking or extend your racks vertically. Let’s have a quick look at how you can maximise your warehouse’s storage capacity.
Evaluate Your Current Inventory
Clearing your inventory every now and then is an essential part of making more space and improving efficiency. Take note of what you need to keep, what you need to remove and what you need to restock.
Things that you need to track:
Are there any expired or obsolete items?
Can anything be donated or returned to the suppliers?
Which items are picked frequently?
Which ones are not of any use or used less frequently?
Once you have the answers, it’ll be easy for you to organise and prioritise things. Also, keep in mind the dimensions of every space to create a better storage optimisation plan.
Optimise Your Existing Space
Follow the below tactics to make the most of your warehouse space:
Use Vertical Space as Much as Possible
Many warehouses are going vertical these days. Invest in high-density racking to maximise this space. However, you have to consider weight limitations and make sure your forklifts can reach the highest shelves. The best option is to use these shelves to store items that are not frequently used. You can also consider installing automated vertical storage systems to simplify operational tasks.
Get Smart with Cube-Shelving
The old, mismatched shelving may not always be enough to store your inventory. Upgrade to modular shelving that can be customised to fit your specific storage needs. You can also use adjustable shelves to accommodate different product sizes and maximise cube utilisation. Store similar-sized items together to create a more uniform flow.
Make Use of Containers
Bins, boxes and containers can be a great help when organising smaller items. Use different sizes of the containers. This will prevent wasted space, and everything will have a designated spot. Clear containers can help you identify items quickly and save you picking time. Use labels for each container to make searching for an item simpler and quick.
Invest in Pallet Storage
Pallet racking can be used for heavier or bulkier items. They are available in many configurations, from single-deep (easy access but less space-efficient) to double-deep (more capacity but requires specialised forklifts). Also, to maximise space and minimise aisle needs, invest in pallet shuttle systems. Pallet shuttles store and retrieve pallets within the racking itself.
Automate the Storage System
Warehouses with high-volume operations might need more storage and workforce. Incorporating automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) can be a better solution. These high-density systems can comparably increase storage capacity and picking efficiency, even though they can have a higher upfront investment.
Make More Usable Space with Mezzanine
Mezzanines create more storage space without expanding your warehouse footprint. They build a second floor within your warehouse. Mezzanines are perfect for low-volume, slow-moving items or office space if you need to free up space for picking and packing operations.
Optimise Your Workflow
Storage solutions can help maximise your space, but you also need to optimise your picking and fulfilment process to free up space.
Slotting: Strategically place items based on demand. Frequently picked items go near the front for quick access, and slower movers can be stored higher or further back.
Warehouse Management Systems: Use software to track inventory in real-time, optimise picking routes and identify potential bottlenecks.
Closing Thoughts
Maximising warehouse storage doesn’t always necessarily need a new building. You can create space within your existing warehouse using smart storage solutions and a little planning. These valuable tips and storage solution ideas can help you utilise maximum space, invest in the right storage mediums and keep everything well-organised.
