Industrial warehouse racking is the ideal storage solution for warehouses in South Africa, as it helps to optimise the warehouse space available whilst successfully streamlining warehouse logistics. However, the racking needs to be manufactured excellently, and certain things need to be put in place for it to work effectively. In this article, we are going to consider some heavy duty racking tips for South African warehouses to implement.
6 heavy duty racking tips
Warehouse management demands careful planning. The good news is that there are some simple-to-follow tips and tactics to help South African warehouses get the most out of the space they have and operate at optimal efficiency.
Put systems in place
Depending on your unique warehouse needs, you’ll need to choose a suitable racking system and pallet stacking mechanism (e.g. FIFO or LIFO). Beyond this, other systems, rules and regulations need to be put in place from the get-go to ensure things operate smoothly and safely.
Effectively use vertical space
Don’t be afraid to use vertical space with sturdy, metal racking that is strategically laid out. Too many South African warehouses just keep stock on the floor without making use of the height of the warehouse space. Storing items up also helps keep things organised and promotes clearer visibility of everything. Forklifts make it easy to quickly get the stock items needed, which improves overall productivity.
Use wide aisles
Sometimes South African warehouses make aisles too narrow in an effort to cram more on the floor. But the reality is that hampers productivity, especially when a forklift needs a clear travelling path and enough space to manoeuvre stock around.
Assess product movement
There are some products that move off the shelf quicker than others. Those products should be kept within easy reach.
Weigh stock up
It’s also a good (and safe) idea to put heavier stock items closer to the ground and lighter items higher up.
Size stock up
Another thing to think about it is the size of certain stock items. Typically, bigger items are best kept higher up whilst smaller items are kept close at hand.
Each warehouse and its stock mix is unique, so it is important to remember that all of these tips should be considered holistically.
Please get in touch with us if you have any warehouse storage questions or to arrange a site visit. We’re passionate about coming up with customised warehouse storage solutions that work for each client.