Monthly Archives: November 2010

Warehouse Style Stores Are More Popular Than Ever

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Many Americans strive to be frugal, especially in this tough economy. They are trying to figure out ways to save money and how to cut certain things that are not completely necessary from their

lives. One of the most popular types of retail shopping is that of the warehouse style store. Some require a membership and others do not. A lot of the frills and sales force are cut out to make

the products a much better bargain to consumers. Most of the warehouse stores are just that, enormous warehouse space that are typically only divided by rows of pallet racking and mezzanines to store the products. It is very industrial and can be intimidating at first but many people love the option.

One last type of Warehouse store that is physically enormous but very well organized is that of Ikea. They have laid out this store with many signs winding throughout the various departments making

it easier to navigate. The main part of the store is done with complete furnished rooms and displays to show off what all of the products look like. Most of the IKEA items need to be assembled to

seeing the displays is essential for the consumers. Once you have viewed the more finished part of the warehouse, it leads you to the more rough section with huge pallets of items loaded up in

industrial aisles. This is where you pick up your own item and go to checkout.

The first example of Warehouse stores that require paying for a membership are the popular nationally known Costco and Sam’s Club. They are very similar to one another and offer their customers with almost identical products ranging from food, to gardening supplies to diamonds in their stores. Some Costco lovers however, feel that Costco is higher quality especially with the foods because they use better quality foods. Some also may feel a bit of a stigma that Sam’s Club is owned by the Wal-Mart corporation. The membership fees vary from about $40-$100 per year and many customers feel that they save that much on their first trip through the warehouse.

Another type of store that uses a Warehouse style store are those that sell home improvement items and hardware essentials. These would be the very popular Home Depot and Lowe’s stores. They also are in a warehouse style building with huge aisles filled with everything and anything you would need to fix up your home from granite countertops, to plumbing to landscaping. Many self employed contractors shop here along side with the homeowner just looking to paint a room in their home.

Many of these Warehouse stores require less sales people because so much of it is a self service style of shopping. It allows a space to have an enormous amount of products without having an enormous staff to support it. Because there is less staff to pay, and a lot of the items are offered in bulk, the prices to the consumer are significantly less.

When Shopping For Mezzanines

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Steel Mezzanine will certainly be able to offer superior solutions for those who want to offer to make better use of overhead spaces. The use of such space solutions will ensure that space is used in a much more efficient and profitable manner. These are solutions that will help to ensure that more space is created to help increase productivity in an office. Fortunately, the costs involved in constructing such space savers are very affordable. On the other hand, pallet racking offers versatility as well as maximum adaptability for a variety of industries. However, by putting available space to maximum use it is then possible that, when used in an office, it will reduce interruptions in work flow to a bare minimum. All that is required when creating additional space is to pick a product that meets the most exacting industry standards and which adhere to national, state and local codes. It is also necessary to ensure that the product is designed to fit the available space and load as well as span requirements. There are several benefits to be obtained by adding such a deck to a building including customizing the solution to fit exact needs. Once installed, it is easy to maximize the storage and office potential. Look for solutions that are constructed from heavy metal, which boast of baked enamel finish, which look smart and are durable. Before actually picking a solution, it is important to address a few factors. These factors include location of the building and whether adding the deck will in fact provide meaningful improvement to the space. In addition, it is important to find out whether there will be need to reorganize existing operations and whether it is necessary to maximize all of the cube or volume of a facility. These decks should also be non-skid and should typically be made from twenty gauges painted steel and which uses a suitable flooring surface which in turn can be made from plywood and metal plate as well as any other surface that is necessary for the deck. Fortunately, there are a number of different kinds of deck surfaces to choose from and these can be used for individual applications. Each such system will be unique and so before purchasing an option make sure to pick one that is suitable for a particular need. Such decking solutions are really useful when used in a plant which is in need of additional floor space. Even if a particular building requires an add-on or when leasing temporary space is not feasible, it will still pay to add suitable deck solutions. A proper deck solution should be designed to fit into a specific area. These solutions can be either single or even multi-level and can also be installed in manufacturing/processing plants, office buildings, retail stores as well as warehouses, industrial plants and distribution centers as well as government facilities and other institutions. Once installed, it will add a second and perhaps even a third level inside a particular facility and in doing so will triple or even double existing space.Mezzanine

Warehouse Mezzanine Floors Rack

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Mezzanine flooring systems offer a variety of advantages such as, more economical use of floor space, extra storage thus freeing up floor space, and in many instances allows the construction of offices, as many warehouses are built without office utilities. These floors are generally constructed using the latest lightweight steels, and powder coated to a very high and durable quality.Warehouse mezzanines are secondary or in between floors built within a warehouse. These extra floors or mezzanine floors are not counted among the actual floors of the warehouse itself. Many warehouse are constructed without these in-between floors, and mezzanine floors are often fitted to a customers requirements after the construction of the warehouse is complete.

Several different types of Industrial mezzanine flooringsare available, from free standing to rack support, and can be supplied new or used from the appropriate suppliers.Industrial mezzanine flooring can provide the following advantages :

1) Can be erected in single double or triple tier
2) Suitable for manufacturing, warehousing
3) Safe and secure work environment
4) Increased productive space
5) Allows existing buildings to be fully utilised and adaptable to changing demands

A typical warehouse mezzanine floor will be constructed using main support columns. These columns have base

plates welded at one end and the base plates are bolted to the floor. Main steel beams are then placed across the upright columns to construct the main framework of the floor,

then secondary steel joists are placed between the main joists to complete the framework. The appropriate decking is laid down and fixed to the main and secondary joists to

complete the floor. Access to the floor is usually by a staircase located and fixed at the desired place on the framework and the floor is then finished with a safety handrail

which is generally fixed securely all the way around the edge of the mezzanine floor.

Base plates are manufactured from hot rolled steel plates, and plate size is determined by Mezzanine column

load and existing ground floor slab construction.

The columns are rolled hollow section or structural universal ‘I’ columns, and a typical column will be 100mm square.

Main beams also known as ‘I’ beams, can vary in dimension but their depth will be determined by design, and can be as small as 152mm.

Secondary joists are inward lipped pre-galvanized C section joists cleated into the depth of the main beam.

The handrail will vary depending on the usage of the floor, and may be stainless steel, industrial mesh, or solid vanguard.

Staircases must conform to building regulations, safe access, means of escape and DDA compliance.All Mezzanine floors require Building Regulation approval.

The Benefits and Features Of Warehouse Storage Rack

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Warehouse is meant for commercial storage needs, and not for individual needs. It is a large commercial building for storage of goods. It is used by manufacturers, exporters, importers,

wholesalers, transport businesses and customs. There are different types of warehouse storage systems, such as pallet rack, mezzanine, cantilever, retrieval systems, automated storage, industrial

shelving and similar others. It offers many benefits to the manufacturers because it is a systematic way of storing goods.

Here are some of the benefits and features of Warehouse Storage Rack:

Effective Utilization Of Space: Some of the systems of storing in a warehouse offer maximum utilization of space. They utilize the floor space, i.e. the horizontal space as well as the vertical

space. This means that the pallet racks are as high as the ceiling and put up on the walls. It allows stacking of items one over the other without causing any damage. Moreover, each pallet rack has

a locking system and there is no scope of theft or loss of goods. This system is very cost effective and offer complete utilization of space. You may require a stairs or forklift to reach the upper

racks.

Easy To Assemble And Dismantle: Mezzanine self storage units can be easily assembled and dismantled. Moreover, they are extremely cost effective. In fact, they are low cost storage strategy. They

are built between two floors of a building, and it’s just like making the best out of waste.

Automated storage Rack: A warehouse with automated storage is the best option because it reduces the cost of manpower. Not

just that, it also reduces the scope of errors. This technological marvel may be costlier than the other physical storage options. However, it has many benefits that outweigh the cost factor. The

entire system is automated and retrieval is very quick and easy. Besides, the software can be configured according to your warehousing needs.

Storage facilities are not limited to Warehouse Storage. There are other types of services too for individuals like car

storage, furniture storage, boat storage, RV storage and garage storage. These facilities offer sophisticated services like climate controlled storage and dry air technology for storing delicate

items. Indeed, storage services have seen a massive change from what they used to be earlier. The lock and key unit has given way to biometric access system for extra safety and security of your

belongings. There are armed security guards and round the clock surveillance to safeguard your belongings.

If the storage system is poor and not up to the mark, it can affect your belongings adversely. It may lead to loss or damage and may turn out to be expensive. It doesn’t hurt to spend a little

money on proper warehouse storage rather than risking your entire stock. Poor storing conditions can also cause weather damage to your products.

Apart from this, there are special industrial racking units too. There are wide range of shelf styles like flat metal, plain shelves and wire mesh. There are special shelves too that are covered

with rubber to serve as cushion for delicate items. Not just that, you could also include drawers and special locking system depending on your needs.

A Guide to Warehouse Storage Systems

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Today there are options to securing temporary storage, and facilities to solve any unique shipper’s need. From refrigerated units to temperature-controlled warehouses; the best-informed shippers know their options and are successful at storing their freight properly until time to move.Today’s importing/exporting, wholesale, and freight shipping industries need storage space to protect valuable merchandise, and they need it fast. Handing logistics from freight receipt to freight ship often includes a brief period of non-movement for which finding the right warehouse space to rent is a chief concern. Warehouse Storage Rack

Locating the right warehouse to store your goods means the difference between your product being placed in consumers hands, to ruined merchandise and costly dips in profit. Before you begin checking for warehouses, get to know the types of warehouses available and their storage system so you can be sure the location is a proper fit. Easily damaged merchandise will require special handling, as will raw materials and finished goods.

The most common warehouse storage systems include: pallet racks, mezzanine, cantilever, industrial shelving, and automated storage and retrieval systems. We’ll discuss each option briefly so you can get an idea of your ideal storage. Remember, when in doubt, contact the warehouse directly to answer any questions particular to the goods that you will be sending in for storage.

Pallet racks are probably what you think of first when you think warehouse storage, and these include double-deep, pushback, and gravity flow pallets as well as selective, drive-in and drive-thru.

Cantilever storage systems are racks made up of a vertical column, a base, arms, and a horizontal/cross-brace. Made from roll formed structural steel, you’ll most find this storage system in place where warehouses see a lot of plumbing material storage.

Mezzanine storage systems are structural, roll formed, and rack or shelf-supported and generally made from steel, fiberglass, or aluminum. In warehouse storage, you’ll typically find mezzanine storage systems formed near the top of the building where buildings are taking advantage of the storage space near their tall roofs. Warehouses work hard to maximize each square foot of their storage facility and mezzanine systems are ideal.

Industrial shelving storage systems are your typical warehouse shelves. Mostly made from metal and steel, although some include wood materials, this simple solution to storage creates organized systems with easy cataloging.

Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS for short) are single masted, double masted, or man-aboard types and it’s important that you know which one your warehouse uses if it has an ASRS system in place. These computer-controlled storage methods automatically place and retrieve loads from programmed locations, and are best used in high volume stowing and retrieval demands are present within tight space constraints. With vertical or horizontal carousels, vertical lift modules, and the ability to retrieve loads of any weight, ASRS systems are highly-efficient because they can reach as far up and out as the warehouse space requires thereby maxing out the square footage of the building.

Get to know the types of storage used in warehouse facilities today and as you secure temporary homes for your goods be sure that you are aware how your selection will be packing and retrieving your merchandise. Knowing this factor will keep you in control of how your merchandise is handled, and allow you to make the best decision.Warehouse Storage

The Pros and Cons of Pallet Racks, ASRS and Mezzanines

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The technology that is associated with warehouse storage systems has improved dramatically in the last few years. There are numerous types of storage options that are better designed to not only improve space utilization but also efficiency.

Pallet racking is a technique that utilizes racks so that goods can be stored in multiple levels above the ground therefore making better use of the available space. Instead of being limited to the

storage of just one pallet, the racking systems allows for stacking of up to four or five levels, increasing space utilization many times over.

There are various adaptations of the racking system. Total cost is dependent on the upgrades selected. Generally, the pallet rack system ranks in the middle of the road in terms of cost; it is not

the most expensive nor is it the cheapest. This system is an excellent method to store goods and with a roller scheme included, the pallets can easily be moved in and out in either direction. There

are also excellent racking systems for storing heavy materials.

The pallet rack is clean, efficient and requires little maintenance. Because it is sturdy and re-usable, it can be moved from location to location. Used or refurbished pallet racking can be

purchased to cut down on costs.

There are two disadvantages to the pallet rack system . Because all materials that are being stored must be on pallets to be moveable, a substantial inventory of pallets is required. The other

disadvantage is that in order to fully utilize the system, fork lift trucks must be able to reach pallets that are high above the ground.

The mezzanine storage system is best used in conditions where there is not an excessive amount of product to warehouse. In a large scale operation, this would not be the optimum method to employ.

However, the cost is lower than that of other systems.

The mezzanine storage system is a less expensive method to make the best use of available warehouse space. It is typically a structure that is constructed between the main floors to store

additional supplies or equipment. It is less expensive than other systems and can be moved from location to location.

ASRS – Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems is a fairly recent system introduced for warehouse storage. This is a complex system that utilizes computers to store and recall materials by storage

location. Floor space is maximized because there is not a height constraint by the fork lift operator.

The ASRS system is extremely adaptable and can be used to warehouse both large and small products. There is significant savings because the system is automated and requires less man power. In spite of the smaller man power requirement, this system is more expensive to install than either the mezzanine system or the pallet system, plus there are high maintenance expenses connected to the ASRS system operation.

Space, product damage and labor are expensive components to a warehouse operation. Fortunately, there are many effective and cost reducing storage systems that are available which can be tailored to specific needs.

Pallet Racking Systems

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There are many types of pallet racking systems. depending on the products you are storing, you may want to look at each system to meet your needs assessment and requested its appropriateness.

A roll form rack system is manufactured with flat rolled carbon steel. These systems are often used for heavy parts or equipment because they have a minimum yield of 50,000 PSI.

Depending on the region where these systems are installed, there may be a height regulations on the frames that may be vertically erected for safety purposes.

Many businesses that have products that are approximately the same size and will be kept on pallets use a selective racking system. This system stores inventory one pallet deep

in up to 50 standard frames that are normally in one or two configurations. The systems are usually designed with a welded and bolt truss with four columns so that there are no

weld brackets to impede loading or removing pallets from any frame. This system provides easy access to all of the products of a large inventory at all times.

Pallets rest on horizontal beams that are held together with clipping mounts. The system has tracking that leads from storage to a loading area and be restocked easily.The VNA, Very Narrow Aisle Pallet Racking Systems is made for tight configurations and is often

used for products such as barrels.

These systems are most commonly used in conjunction with conveyor systems that move large, heavy and awkward containers through a series of designated areas within a holding

area. The systems can be made in different sizes to meet the needs of the business. They often provide maximum availability for products and ease of accessibility to items that

would normally require much more space to keep in an inventory.

Controlling inventory is easier using the systems because you can see what you have visually, rather than trying to guess where products are located. In addition, the cost of

installing these systems is low when compared to the return on investment that is received by having more control over your immediate inventory.

The system that you select will be an important factor in developing a system for controlling and maintaining your inventory. The technological advances made in the design and

construction of the systems allows many to be automated from the time the product is placed on the pallet until it is off-loaded to a truck.

When you are considering the pallet racking systems that will be most suited to meet your needs, it will be important to talk to a professional who has knowledge and experience in your industry, storage needs and the different systems available that will fit in the space that you will be using. They will be able to give you information and details about the benefits of each system and the most effective system for your needs and help you to create a plan for the system that will grow with your business.

Organizing An Easy Way With Boltless rivet Steel Shelving

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Do you have a stock room that you need to organize; product you need to store and organize in your back room; or records you need to archive…then boltless industrial steel shelving is the perfect solution for you. The simplicity of designing, installing and relocating, if necessary, makes it a cost effective and time saving solution for your organizational, display and storage needs. Steel shelving allows you to utilize unused overhead air space. By going up instead of out, valuable floor space is freed up to use for more productive activities. There are really only three basic components involved – angle posts, beams and shelves. Units can be assembled in minutes, with only a hammer, to create a free standing boltless shelving unit which requires no bracing, which can obstruct loading, and allows for loading and unloading from all sides. Shelves are usually adjustable on 1 ½” centers giving you the versatility of configuring your units to fit your specific needs and can be made of particle board, steel, or wire, depending on your particular application. Installation is easy – simply snap the rivets on the beams into place on the slotted angle posts and lay the shelves on the beams. Because the steel shelving is boltless, so there is no need for nuts, bolts or clips that are easily lost and difficult to handle. Beam ties can be added to shelves to increase their capacity if needed. T-Posts can also be used to connect several units together which adds more stability to the overall system. Common uses for industrial steel shelving include: · Warehouses · Residential Storage · Stock / Supply Rooms · Archive Record Storage · Retail Outlet and Distribution Centers · Component & Assembly Storage The same angle posts, beams and shelving can also be used to create custom units such as: · Stock and Service Carts · Office Solutions such desks, and bookcases · Work Centers · Packaging Benches Using industrial shelving maximizes the way you use the space in your facility. It helps increase work flow and productivity, as well as improves your workspace layout. Inventory can be easily categorized which provides better in/out flow along with improved SKU management. Organize your warehouse or workspace by using industrial steel shelving.

Material Handling Terms and Definitions

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Dedicated Aisles- An aisle in a warehouse serving only one function. This aisle can be for order selection, product storage, or both.

Buffer Storage- The part of a warehouse in which back-up or reserve stock is stored awaiting transfer into active storage.

Belt Conveyor- A continuous fabric, rubber, plastic, leather or metal belt operated over a suitable drive and tail end, and over belt idlers or slider bed for handling materials, packages or objects placed directly upon the belt.

Pallet Rack Shelving- Standard Pallet Rackpallet rack can be equipped with shelf panel inserts so that pallet rack can be used for storing binnable, rackable or palletized materials as needs change.

Pallet Loader- An automatic or semiautomatic machine consisting of synchronized conveyors and mechanisms to receive objects from a conveyor(s) and place them onto pallets according to a prearranged pattern.

What is pallet rack

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Standard selective pallet rack is designed for the purpose of the bulk storage of palletized goods and equipment.
■Pallet rack is typically found in warehousing operations.
■Consists of uprights, beams, and wire decks.
■Uprights are the vertical pieces of these storage units which are typically anchored to the floor and provide the support for the racking system.
■Beams clip into the uprights and provide the horizontal supports in these units.
■Wire decks are the final element of these units which sit on top of the beams and create the shelf that the pallets and/or goods sit on.