Spring is the perfect time to reorganize and rethink the way your company stores inventory. With so much happening in a warehouse, it can be difficult to find time to plan a storage strategy that works for your business. However, making a few inexpensive changes can pay dividends for any company that wants to make the most of their space.

Here are some tips for optimizing limited storage space in a warehouse:

• Rethink warehouse layout. Before you decide to make any extensive procedural or structural changes, decide whether or not the current layout of your warehouse makes sense. Does the orientation of your shelves allow for efficient use of forklifts or other machinery? Is there more inventory of one product that should be allotted additional shelving? Are shelves at an unsafe height, putting your employees in danger when working on the floor? These are all important things to consider before introducing any new technology or policies.

• Implement vertical storage. Utilizing available vertical space is one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to maximize space. Figure out exactly how much space you have to work with, then decide on the right storage type for your situation. Whether it’s mezzanine shelving, platform shelving, or a different type of vertical storage, using as much space as possible above the shop floor leaves room for additional inventory, thus giving managers more options.

• Consider a push back racking system. Where it’s safe and practical to do so, making aisles narrower and installing a push back system can free up valuable square-footage on the warehouse floor. Push back systems allow for more efficient use of space in high-density warehouses while offering increased accessibility to products. While it may require a high cost up-front, installing a push back racking system offers many benefits and could pay off in the long run.

• Plan for the future. Any changes you make to your warehouse should be carefully thought out and intended to make your space more efficient and ultimately, more profitable. Ensure that if you install new technology or new shelving, it is built to last and will provide you with reliable service for years to come. In addition, remain flexible as your business grows and be prepared to upgrade your shelving or add space accordingly.

If you’re interested in learning more about our products and how they can improve your warehouse space, request a quote from us today!