Most distribution centers and warehouses are equipped with standard selective shelves. Properly selected and installed shelves can optimize or suppress storage density. Here are some issues to consider when choosing a shelf:

1. What is your order data like?

Have you completed a data analysis of existing inventory and last year's sales data? Do you pick up individual specific products from each pallet, or do you pick up complete pallets before shipping? These factors are important in determining a better storage solution, as the use of specialized technology may need to be considered in addition to shelving.

2. What type of mechanized handling equipment do you have on site?

If your new building has higher ceilings, are you prepared to purchase new mechanized handling equipment? Keep in mind that the type of shelf you choose will change forklifts and pickers.

3. Do you have a standard pallet size?

The industry standard is 40 inches by 48 inches. Are the pallets you received in good condition? These factors will greatly affect your shelf design.

4. What type of products do you want to store?

Both weight and size can affect the final design of the shelf.

5. Is your facility located in an earthquake zone with frequent earthquakes?

This is the focus when considering shelf design and should be determined early in the design process.

6. What is the acceptable price and return on investment?

These are often the deciding factors. Given the complexity of new warehouses and storage needs, there are several ways to limit the overall investment. Leveraging a team of experts can be one of the most cost-effective ways to help you define better solutions for your processes to improve overall efficiency and profitability.