Our storage & handling specialists can help you create a warehouse design to increase storage and keep your products safe. CONTACT PROLIFT
Have you been tasked to find more available storage in your warehouse?
When forklifts, materials and employees occupy a cramped warehouse, it may seem impossible to make room for additional storage. Use our tips to give your warehouse a fresh look, designing it with today’s production and obstacles in mind.
Warehouse Design and Storage
Forklift Lifting Height
Finding the clear ceiling height is the first step in knowing how high your materials can be lifted. This measurement takes into account the lowest components – items such as sprinklers, lighting or the HVAC system. Your forklift(s) should also be reviewed for lifting height to ensure it can safely reach the highest pallet racking when loading or unloading materials.
Aisle Width
Aisle width will be determined heavily on the type of forklift(s) in operation. The forklift should pass easily through the aisle without making contact with pallet racking or stored materials. Aisle dimensions are measured rack to rack but should also consider the forklift’s right angle stacking position and pallet overhang, approximately 3” for each side of the pallet.
Column Spacing
When your warehouse includes structural columns, pallet racking design and aisle widths will be dictated by the obstructions. In some instances, storage is lost if pallet positions are blocked by columns. Designing around columns and the flow of materials requires you to reconsider your warehouse layout, even if the set-up has been in place for years. Flipping the pallet racking (i.e. vertical to horizontal) can hide columns within the racking, exposing more of the warehouse floor.
Easy Access
Don’t overlook building details that require easy access. This includes electrical panels and water shut-off valves. To ensure your building is up to code, work with a local contractor to review regulations.
Moving to a new warehouse or thinking about a warehouse redesign to increase storage space? Contact a ProLift storage & handling specialist for a fresh perspective! Our specialist will provide you with a no-obligation review of pallet racking and other factors important to material flow and storage.