Smart Tips for Using Warehouse Space Wisely

Making the best use of warehouse space that you have is essential if you want to run an efficient warehouse and store enough inventory. Even smaller warehouses or sections of a warehouse can be utilized smartly if you know how. You can use a number of tips and tricks that will help you to make sure that none of the space in your warehouse goes to waste, and it’s still easy for your workers to pick orders quickly and accurately. Here are some of the things that you could be doing to make the most of your warehouse space.

Reduce Aisle Width

While it can be necessary to have wide aisles between racks for moving around, it’s not always essential. If you can reduce the width of your aisles and still have the space that you need, you could have a lot more space to use. An aisle will often be between 10 and 12 feet across, but you could cut that down by as much as half. It’s easier to make your aisles narrower if you don’t have large pieces of equipment or machinery that need to be maneuvered around the warehouse.

Make Use of Vertical Space

Using vertical space is essential if you want to make the most of your warehouse space. If there’s space, there is even the possibility of installing a mezzanine level. This could be above a shipping or receiving area. You can also make use of vertical space by choosing the right racks and storage. A vertical conveyor can help with moving things between different levels. If you’re not making use of the vertical space in your warehouse, you could be wasting a lot of potential. Consider the space that you have available and how you can use it in a way that works for you.

Look at Your Storage

The storage that you use also makes a difference if you want to make the most of your warehouse space. A change in storage can help you to get more from the space you have available in several ways. A rack that’s twice as deep will be able to store twice as much. You can also think about using different storage for different materials. It makes sense to use different types of storage for large or small items or for items that can be compressed compared to those that need to be stored as they are. The way you store items should be considered as well. For example,  using durable plastic boxes will help with long term storage as well as organization.   

Use Dead Space

If there is any space in your warehouse that isn’t currently being used, you could make use of it. There is often space that isn’t serving any purpose, but which could become useful. You might need to think outside of the box to use the space in the best way possible. For example, there might be space above receiving or shipping doors that could be utilized. Shelves hung above conveyors are another way to make use of underused space.

Use your warehouse space more wisely, and you can create a warehouse that is more organized and efficient.