Blog Post

Create More Storage Space in a Small Warehouse

  • By Admin
  • 02 Aug, 2019
Empty Open Door Self Storage Unit
Companies with small warehouses or storage docks often look for ways to increase the usefulness of the space that they have to work with. Ways exist to optimize the space and make the existing space more effective without having to build an entirely new building or rent space somewhere offsite.

Optimize Your Available Space

One of the most important aspects of creating more usable space on your dock or in your warehouse is the optimization of the space you already have. While you could buy some racks and start putting them on the floor, take some time and work out the best way to organize the area that allows you the freedom of movement you need and adds storage for your palletized material.

Make a Plan

The first thing you need to do is make a detailed plan of your warehouse space and the way you want to layout the warehouse area. Some software solutions on the market will allow you to design your floor plan on the computer, or you could do it with paper, a pencil, and a tape measure.

No matter how you decide to go about it, start with a plan that allows you to see if the flow of traffic through the warehouse will work or not. You can revise the plan several times before you set up the warehouse, so don't be afraid to try it several ways on paper before you settle on the final plan.

Select a Rack System

Pallet racks are often the most effective way to use the space you have available. Using a rack allows you to store more items in the same space because you leverage the vertical space above the floor. Several kinds of racks may be beneficial in your space, so be sure to look at all the options before you decide which rack is best for your needs.

Standard Pallet Racks

Pallet racks are common, and they often hold 2 pallets back to back. The length and height of the rack are flexible, and if the racks are in rows with aisles on either side, forklift operators will be able to access the pallets on the racks from both sides.

Pallet Flow Racks

Pallet flow racks are a great way to deal with palletized materials with an expiration date. Flow racks are loaded from the backside of the rack, and the pallet moves down to the front position on the rack on rollers that are in the support bars of the rack. As long as the product is loaded from the back and retrieved from the front of the rack, the system makes it easy to rotate stock.

Drive Through Racks

Drive through pallet racks are a little different because the racks are open enough for a forklift to drive into the rack and position the pallet, then back out and add more pallets behind the first. Again, this is a good way to keep stock expirations in check, and the racks maximize the space on the floor and above it.

Professional Installation

The best option is to work with a professional to install the pallet racks in your warehouse space. Getting the position of the rack right and securing them to the floor so the racks cannot shift is important.

At Lone Star Pallet Rack, we can help you find the right racks and the right layout that works for your company and the space you have to work with. Our site engineer will survey the site and recommend a rack system for you. Gives us a call to set up a visit soon.
By Jason Calope March 12, 2025
Mezzanines can significantly improve warehouse efficiency by maximizing available space, streamlining workflow, and boosting productivity. This cost-effective solution helps enhance operational organization and overall performance.
By Admin January 9, 2025
Learn essential warehouse safety practices to protect your workforce and enhance operational efficiency. Discover tips on proper storage, equipment maintenance, PPE, and emergency preparedness to create a safer work environment. Explore best practices for reducing risks and keeping employees safe while maximizing productivity in your warehouse.
By Admin November 12, 2024
Discover the key benefits of using pallet racks in your warehouse. Learn how pallet racks can maximize space, improve organization, enhance safety, and offer cost-effective solutions. Perfect for boosting efficiency in any warehouse setting.
By Admin September 12, 2024
Discover the key benefits of using pallet racks in your warehouse. Learn how pallet racks can maximize space, improve organization, enhance safety, and offer cost-effective solutions. Perfect for boosting efficiency in any warehouse setting.
By Admin August 15, 2024
Read this article to learn how pallet racks can optimize office space, improve organization, and enhance productivity in your workplace efficiently.
By Admin July 25, 2024
Discover essential safety tips for installing and maintaining pallet racks to ensure a safe and efficient warehouse environment. Learn more about proper practices and precautions.
By Admin July 16, 2024
Clear film is an essential resource in any warehouse. Read our blog to learn what key considerations to keep in mind when selecting clear packing film.
By Angeline Libiran July 1, 2024
A pallet jack is essential equipment for any warehouse. Read our blog to learn what to consider when getting a pallet jack for your warehouse.
By admin admin June 19, 2024
If you need to maximize the space in your warehouse or storeroom, consider a push-back pallet rack system. Take a look at how push-back systems work.
By admin admin December 19, 2023
If you need to maximize the space in your warehouse or storeroom, consider a push-back pallet rack system. Take a look at how push-back systems work.
Show More
Share by: