A warehouse storage is a place used for handling and storing goods. Businesses rely on warehouse storage systems to organize, store and manage their inventory. The warehouse is an important part of the supply chain where it’s necessary to ensure an efficient flow of materials and goods from the source to the final destination where it will be used.
There are various types of warehouse storage to store shipments and goods. Choosing the right one can help maximize space utilization, boost productivity and reduce costs as well. Let’s explore the different types of warehouse storage so you can make better decisions.
The Importance of Warehouse Storage for Businesses
Storage plays an important warehousing role in the supply chain ensuring operational efficiency. It isn’t only about keeping the goods safe. Below are some ways warehouse storage is important for businesses:
- Inventory Management: Warehouse storage offers a place to store and manage inventory. It focuses on the receiving and storing of goods as well as tracking the goods so nothing gets lost or misplaced.
- Accessibility: Warehouse storage offers quick and easy access to their goods and items, allowing your customers’ needs to be met.
- Security: It offers protection of inventory from damage, theft or environmental factors through security systems.
- Cost Efficiency: Having warehouse storage can reduce operational costs in many ways, such as optimizing storage methods, faster and more efficient distribution of goods, and inventory management for quick access and distribution.
- Customer Satisfaction: Due to timely delivery or an urgent order, warehouse storage can help businesses to meet customer demand fast, therefore leading to customer satisfaction which is one of the important aspects for business.
Types of Warehouse Storage Solutions
There are many ways on how to store your goods in a warehouse, and how the goods are stored and sorted is different to meet its objective. Let’s take a look at the 6 types of warehouse storage solutions:
1. Bulk Storage
Bulk storage in a warehouse involves large volumes of goods in an open area without shelving or racking systems. The goods are typically stored in the original containers without packaging. This type of storage is ideal for:
- Large or irregularly shaped goods such as construction materials or furniture.
- Storage tanks that are ideal for liquid storage.
- Businesses with a low turnover inventory.
2. Pallet Racking Systems
One of the most common warehouse storage solutions is the pallet racking system. They are usually made out of wood, metal or plastic and are typically designed to store heavy large boxes. The pallet racking system is arranged in such a way that large amounts of goods can be stored in a small space. Some of the types of pallet racking systems include:
- Drive-in racking
- Double-deep racking
- Push-back racking
- Mobile racking
- Vertical racking
3. Shelving Systems
Another popular choice for warehouse storage is shelving systems. They are designed for businesses that require quick and easy access to their goods. Plus these systems can accommodate various sizes and weights of products. They’re commonly used in e-commerce and retail handling smaller items. For example, Ikea is using shelving storage methods. Types of shelving systems include:
- Static shelving
- Wire shelving
- Mobile shelving
4. Mezzanine Flooring
Source: https://www.13sqft.com/blog/what-is-a-warehouse-mezzanine-and-what-are-the-benefits
This type of warehouse storage is an effective and space-saving storage option in which it involves adding an elevated platform within the warehouse between the ceiling and the main floor of the warehouse to create additional storage space as well as working space. This option is great for warehouses that have high ceilings. Mezzanine flooring is one of the more expensive options for warehouse storage to choose from, however, it has many key advantages:
- Provides storage space for lightweight goods.
- Utilizes vertical space efficiently without having to increase storage space.
- Offers flexibility to dismantle or expand when needed.
5. Climate-Controlled Storage
Source:https://www.amsc-usa.com/blog/unlocking-the-benefits-of-a-climate-controlled-warehouse/
Climate-controlled storage as the name suggests is a storage facility that is designed to maintain consistent temperature, humidity as well as air quality for goods that are sensitive to temperature, humidity and other environmental factors. The temperature can be controlled to suit the temperature requirements of the goods to prevent spoilage or damage. This type of warehouse storage is essential for:
- Perishable goods such as food products and beverages.
- Pharmaceutical, healthcare and medical supplies
- Cosmetics
- Electronics and sensitive equipment.
6. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems
Source: https://www.globaltrademag.com/4-benefits-of-integrating-an-automated-storage-and-retrieval-system/
Automated storage and retrieval systems or ASRS are computer-controlled systems that use advanced technology to store and retrieve goods with minimal human assistance. It is the process of automating the movements of goods into, within and out of the warehouse to customers. ASRS is ideal for industries handling high volumes of goods that require accurate access and distribution of goods. The key features of this warehouse storage system include:
- Reduced labour costs.
- Reduced risk of human errors.
- High precision and speed in managing inventory.
- Optimal space utilization.
Choosing the Right Storage Type for Your Inventory
With many choices, choosing the right storage type for your inventory can be difficult. The best warehouse storage system for your business is one that meets your needs. There are a few factors you may need to consider when choosing the right storage:
- Capacity: Consider how much storage capacity your inventory needs and ensure the storage type you choose for your business can hold the weight of your inventory.
- Product Type: Storage type also depends on the type of product you handle. Consider its shelf life, temperature sensitivity and other factors such as whether they’re bulk-sized, palletized or small items.
- Accessibility: If your goods require easy, quick and frequent access to them, choose a storage system that allows for easy access.
- Safety: Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure that the warehouse of your choosing has efficient security measures to avoid any theft or other miscellaneous activities.
- Budget: When choosing a storage system, it’s also important to consider the cost-effectiveness of the chosen storage system. It’s best to choose something that offers a balance between quality and affordability that meets the storage you need.
Benefits of Optimizing Warehouse Storage
Optimizing warehouse storage is a top priority for most businesses, as it offers several advantages. Here are some of the advantages of optimizing warehouse storage:
1. Improved Productivity
An optimized warehouse improves overall efficiency and productivity where less time is spent on inventory management.
2. Improved Safety of Goods and Products
Optimizing warehouse storage minimizes the risk of accidents and product damage, ensuring a safe environment for employees as they’re in the safe hands of the warehouse specialist.
3. Better Inventory Accuracy
With an organized warehouse space and simplified system, picking and packing errors can be significantly reduced as the items are categorized and sorted.
4. Cost Savings on Expansion
Not everyone has a space where they can store their goods, especially when it involves a large amount of items of varied size and functionality. Utilizing the warehouse storage space efficiently reduces the need for an expansion for extra storage space or additional facilities, thus, reducing cost.
Find out the Benefits of Outsourcing Warehouse Service as a B2B Business here.
Optimize Your Warehouse Storage in Malaysia with Global Track Lines
Choosing the right warehouse storage system is important to meet your inventory needs as well as to achieve your business goals. Understanding the different types of warehouse storage – bulk storage, pallet racking systems, shelving systems, mezzanine flooring, climate-controlled storage systems and automated storage systems can help you make the right decisions that will align with your warehousing needs.
At Global Track Lines, we offer comprehensive warehouse service solutions in Malaysia that are designed to meet your needs for storage. We provide a range of warehousing services from inventory management to labelling and transportation, ensuring safe and secure warehousing throughout the logistics process. Contact us today to learn more about our team and our services!
