
Did you know that the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly increased the demand for additional storage thanks to the increased online shopping?
If you're looking to update or also expand a warehouse, you’ll need quality options. Choosing the right industrial shelving will help avoid long-term storage problems and help the cohesiveness of your space.
Read on to get some helpful tips for choosing industrial shelving.
1. Planning for Your Industrial Shelving Unit
Planning what type of industrial shelving you’ll need can seems daunting. Several different materials offer a range of weight capacities, air circulation, and even accessibility.
As you begin to plan for your warehouse design, it’s important to focus on your needs. When used properly, industrial shelving can save you money so that you don’t need to pay for extra storage space.
On average, most units regardless of material type will start around $300-400 per 14 x 36 x 74". That price will vary based on size, material, and other special features, so it’s good to make a plan for your specific needs.
2. Determine the Weight Capacity
If you’re unsure of where to begin, think about the weight capacity needed. There are three main types of shelving systems that are determined by weight per shelf: standard shelving (<400 lbs), heavy-duty (<800 lbs), and extra heavy-duty (1200-1800 lbs).
While those capacity ratings are meant for an evenly distributed weight, it’s important to consider adding a shelf adequate or sway braces to ensure safety if your product's weight isn’t evenly distributed.
3. Different Types of Shelving
After you have determined the weight capacity needed for your shelving unit, it’s time to consider what you will be storing. Several different types of shelving offer different benefits.
Depending on if you're storing packing materials, building materials, or even storage boxes, you will want to choose between a wide-span, pallet rack, or even a mobile system.
Mobile shelvings are used when you need to compact your space. These kinds of systems help you to save up a huge part of your storage in comparison with static shelving systems. When you invest in a high-density mobile shelving system it allows you to store more using less space and improve the accessibility and organization of your warehouse.
4. Shelving Material Options
The shelving units can also come in three main materials: wire, steel, and rivet. Wire industrial shelving is lightweight and mold and rust-resistant. You can pair it with a bin system to offer air circulation and to prevent small objects from falling through.
Steel shelving is a great choice if you need to store a lot with limited space. It even comes in a variety of great colors. Rivet shelving provides extra heavy-duty support, is the most durable, and is relatively cost-effective.
5. Space for Shelving
Thankfully many modern shelving designs offer a variety of sizes. Once you know what you need to store, how heavy it is, and what sort of material you’d like to use, you’ll be able to choose the best shelving unit for your space.
A key thing to think about when choosing your industrial shelving is whether or not you’ll need to access items with a lift or other power equipment. Certain shelving units don’t have safety ratings for mechanical impacts, so you’ll need to make adjustments.
6. Mobility
Lastly, it’s important to consider whether or not you’ll need mobility in your shelving system. If you are planning on storing archive boxes or more lightweight items, choosing a sturdy mobile system could be a great option for you. It will allow you to rearrange your space as you grow without compromising organization.
Think about whether or not you’ll need to frequently access your shelves or maneuver them in your space to help your decision.
Choosing Industrial Shelving for Your Needs
Choosing industrial shelving will help you revitalize your warehouse to its maximum potential. Make sure to plan for weight capacity, equipment access, and the type of shelving you’ll need for your products to help fit your space.
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