When storage runs low in your warehouse, your bottom line can suffer. Delays in orders can lead to customer dissatisfaction, and extra storage is often needed to prepare for unexpected order surges. Unfortunately, however, adding permanent square footage is often too expensive and/or time-consuming, and it’s not always possible if you’re leasing the warehouse.
Luckily, by adding modular warehouse storage, much of these difficulties are circumvented. In this article, we’ll talk about how modular storage in warehouses can benefit your operations, the types of modular buildings that can be used as storage, and more.
Why Modular Warehouse Storage Buildings Make Sense
Warehouses often need special kinds of spaces to act as storage, and for a whole variety of reasons. Sometimes inventory needs to grow, and sometimes seasonal changes make it necessary. In any case, modular storage systems are designed to solve any one of these issues without the need for expensive renovations/construction.
Modular buildings can be installed inside your warehouse, and once they’re in place, can give you more usable storage space, even in places that were underutilized (mezzanines, for example, can help you tap into overhead space).
One of the biggest perks of modular buildings is that they can be installed quickly. Many systems take only a few days to set up. And because they’re modular, they can move or change with your operation in the future; they’re very simple to disassemble and reassemble elsewhere. All of this translates to greater flexibility, as well as a great return on investment.
Types of Modular Buildings for Warehouse Storage
Of course, not all modular storage solutions for warehouses are the same. Some may be mezzanine-like structures that can hold racks/pallets, and others may hold heavy equipment. Below are three of the most common modular storage solutions used in warehouses today.
1. Mezzanine Storage Platforms
Mezzanine storage platforms create an intermediate floor of space above the ground floor. They’re perfect for when you’re limited on floor space, but your ceiling height allows for expansion vertically. These platforms can be built to support heavy loads and can hold everything from pallets and racks to large machinery and equipment.
2. Working Platforms
Working platforms create space for both storage and active work. While similar to mezzanine storage platforms, these are often used for packing, assembly, or staging work underneath or on the platform itself. They’re a good fit for fulfillment centers where space may need to serve more than one purpose.
3. Warehouse Offices Repurposed for Storage
If you need to store boxes full of documents, or small parts/tools, then you may just need office space. Office space can create a controlled environment around what is being stored, so if you need to hold electronics, papers, or other materials, it can provide a low cost solution.
4. Partition Walls
Similarly, you can add partition walls to divide your warehouse into multiple zones, which helps organize different types of inventory. Partition walls are especially useful when you want to separate high-value items, create cooled/heated sections, or simply keep different stages of your workflow easier to manage.
The Bottom Line
Modular storage can give your warehouse more space without the need for renovations. They are installed quickly, can adapt with your needs, and are more cost-effective than permanent buildings/expansion. If your warehouse needs more storage, adding modular solutions is perhaps the simplest way to get it done.
Looking to add modular storage at your warehouse? Reach out to the experts at Allied Modular to get a quote on new buildouts today.
FAQs About Modular Warehouse Storage
1. Do modular storage buildings require a permit?
It depends on your location and what type of structure you install. In many cases, mezzanines or partition walls do not require a full building permit, but local codes should always be checked.
2. How much weight can modular mezzanine platforms support?
Load capacity will vary depending on the design and your requirements. Many industrial mezzanines can support thousands of pounds per square foot. Always make sure to communicate your exact needs with the manufacturer.
3. Are modular storage structures compatible with existing racking and equipment?
Yes, absolutely. Modular systems are designed to integrate easily with your setup, including pallet racks, conveyors, and equipment. They can be customized to fit around or complement your infrastructure.
