For any warehouse or manufacturing operation, a modular palletizing system can not only save time and money but can also maximize warehouse space and allow for increased productivity. However, choosing the right pallet racking as a part of that system is imperative.
In the same way that planning for your palletizing system starts with the big picture, so too should your approach for integrative storage. Start with the data that drives your business. What are your inventory requirements for optimum operation, and should you be trying to improve those numbers? If you are considering expansion, first look at the space you have now and whether it is being utilized to its best degree.
With some initial planning, the pallet racking system you choose will fit into the space you have, optimize the storage you need, and be compatible with any automated palletizing system you use. Let’s break each of these areas down.
If the square footage of your facility is inadequate, begin with an evaluation of space utilization. Consider vertical space availability as well as horizontal floor space. How high is your ceiling and do you have, or can you acquire, the equipment needed for safe vertical storage? Is there room for the convenience of a drive-in or drive-thru system of pallet racking? If you plan to optimize vertical storage, work closely with your racking supplier to discuss issues of weight requirements. Consult with your company’s safety director during planning to see what additional employee training and education a new system might necessitate.
As we mentioned before, improving the storage you require should be an important consideration when venturing into a new system. Given recent, unprecedented world events and the uptick in ecommerce, the ability to track and continually update every square foot of storage is increasingly vital to the success of businesses. You know what you can store and retrieve now, but how well can you forecast what your company’s needs will be in the near future? Or even a few years from now? Considering what trends might be coming can help you make the most of any storage restructuring at your facility. Agility is key.
No amount of planning will help your business if you have not successfully integrated all parts of a palletizing system. A modular system is the best way to ensure that future flexibility needs can be met. The ability to grow and evolve as your product and market needs change should not be delayed in the final stages of your operation. Having a modular palletizing system that adapts to your specific needs will save money and allow your company to maintain momentum during times of market change.
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