The use of warehouse storage space has increased dramatically over the last year or two and this has put pressure on storage rack manufacturers to supply enough racks to hold goods.
Many high street retailers are facing challenges of high rent, demanding tax rates and fewer sales as more and more people order goods online. Fashion retailers such as Crew Clothing and Joules have responded by expanding their online operations.
Space limitations in stores restrict the number of lines that can be stocked, but this is not the case with online sales. Provided enough storage space is available, many more items can be offered for online sale than in retail outlets.
Expanding online sales means more warehouses are needed. In 2020, the demand for warehouse space is expected to exceed supply, but more warehouses are being built.
Every new warehouse needs equipping, which puts a demand on warehouse equipment suppliers who must increase their storage rack production.
Not mass-produced
Many storage racks are made in the UK. Quality British-built storage racks are made on short production runs by skilled metalworkers who bend, cut and weld tubular steel lengths to make racks, rather than mass-produced on busy production lines.
The advantage of this is that storage racks can be made to the exact sizes needed to fit the space. Strict quality controls by skilled metalworkers make sure that every weld is perfect. UK made storage racks are meant for heavy use and designed to provide many years of reliable service.
Ease of replacement
If a picking trolley or forklift has a collision with storage racks, damaged sections can be easily replaced. A good UK storage rack manufacturer is able to deliver replacement sections within a short space of time.
The expanding warehouse
When a warehouse looks like it is reaching its capacity, there may be no need for an expensive relocation to a bigger warehouse. Reorganising the warehouse and how the storage racks are laid out can yield more space.
Sometimes, extra height can be added to racks to; reach near ceiling height. Provided that there is the right equipment to pick and store items at high positions, the warehouse can expand upwards. Some warehouse buildings are suitable for the addition of a mezzanine floor that can be used for extra storage.
Changing the layout of the storage racks can create extra storage space. Aisles can be narrowed and items can be stored differently. For example, if high-demand items are located near the packing station, this can shorten the average distance that pickers travel.
A nice problem to have?
Running short of warehouse space due to extra sales is an issue welcomed by many businesses, as it indicates that the business is doing well. The space issue can be solved by either moving to a larger warehouse, building an extension or reorganising the warehouse layout.
When the need arises, the storage rack supplier is there to help by supplying the extra shelves and racks needed to store more goods. If you’re looking for work aids to suit your expanding warehouse, please fill in our contact form and we’ll be in touch.
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