Warehouse owners looking for ways to make more use of their vertical space, improve storage capacity and work towards a high-density, efficient operation should definitely look at mezzanine platforms. One advantage of mezzanine platforms is that they can change the shape of a warehouse, not just affecting the statistics like capacity and square footage, but also the flow and structure of warehouse operations.
When investing in a new mezzanine platform, you’ll certainly want to get the most out of your new purchase, which means it’s worth planning your project carefully. Not only should you consider the effect a mezzanine platform will have on your storage capacity, but you’ll also want an efficient system that works for your company on the day-to-day.
Goals of a Mezzanine Platform
Before making any kind of plan for your mezzanine, you need to consider your goals for the expansion. Are you simply looking to increase your storage density so you can take on more stock? buy dilaudid online Consider the nature of that stock and how easily you could move it to your mezzanine floor, or whether you could rearrange existing stock to fill your mezzanine.
If you aren’t looking to take on additional business, you might be able to make use of a mezzanine floor as office space, which could enable you to make savings in other parts of your operation.
Think carefully about what you want your mezzanine to achieve and how it will affect your bottom-line, before committing to any purchases or changing existing operations.
Types of Mezzanine Platform
Different varieties of mezzanine platform exist to serve different needs. Once you’ve established your long-term storage goals, you can use them when considering one of the following options:
- Mezzanine Offices – Turning your mezzanine into office space is a smart way to save money without complicating operations. A second tier of storage might pose extra operational challenges when it comes to lifting the stock to and from the mezzanine floor, as well as transporting it around. Not every mezzanine floor will be suitable for forklift or pallet truck access.
You can also place an office underneath a mezzanine floor. In some cases, this might be preferable as it allows guests to come and go more easily while you keep your stock above. This can help keep stock well-lit and won’t necessarily affect your turnaround, depending on the nature of your business. - Retail Mezzanine Floors – In large, warehouse-style retail spaces, a mezzanine floor might be a great way of adding square footage to help spread stock around a facility or put more ranges on display. It is possible to fully cover and deck mezzanine structures in a way that looks elegant, to match the aesthetic of retail space while still offering all the benefits of additional storage.
- Mezzanine Production Floors – Another smart way to use mezzanines is by turning the second tier into a production, picking or assembly area. It is possible to transport materials via conveyor, crane or lift, while you keep machinery on your mezzanine. That way you won’t be inhibited by any bottlenecks occurring while transporting items to and from the mezzanine tier.
- Multi-Tier Mezzanine – Larger operations can also be suitable for major storage operations. In most cases, you won’t be paying extra to use your warehouse’s vertical space, so why not make the most of it? Automatic storage operations can enhance multi-tier mezzanine solutions and allow your racks to extend up to the ceiling of your operation. Be aware of any planning permission requirements that may apply.
Common Applications for Warehouse Owners
With so many mezzanine types out there, it’s important to buy mezzanine platforms from a provider who can help you choose a suitable solution for your business. Shelving + Rack Systems can help your business to plan a mezzanine solution, install it, help with planning permission, maintenance and more.
Once you’ve installed your mezzanine, you’ll enjoy the visual impact it has on your warehouse space, as well as the benefits it can offer to your business.
