Probably the key challenge in operating a multi-tier storage space is maximizing the volume and efficiency of goods that can be moved between the upper tiers and ground floor loading bays.
Any operation that wants to achieve this goal efficiently, over a long-term period, will almost certainly incorporate some form of lift into their arrangement. Mechanical vertical lifts are typically more expensive than entry level hydraulic equipment, but companies are still willing to pay extra.
What are some of the advantages that mechanical lifts offer and how can they improve your warehouse operations?
Smooth, reliable and optimized lifting
Mechanical lifts offer smooth vertical transportation of goods that ensure the safety of products. Despite this, mechanical lifts are not slower than other lift forms and can be a crucial part of a fast, efficient operation. Every warehouse has experienced a portion of losses that can be attributed to items falling or shifting while on a lift. Mechanical vertical lifts minimize that risk, helping to pay for themselves in the process.
One key factor for which businesses choose mechanical lift solutions is their reliability. No warehouse suffers downtime lightly, and a break in operations can cause a knock-on effect, which can snowball into a disaster. Cabling systems used by mechanical vertical lifts are reliable, feature fewer moving parts and are less prone to damage than other lift options.
While hydraulic lift systems are useful, mechanical lifts resemble those used in commercial and office buildings more similarly, which means familiarity for your workforce. This can help to maintain staff confidence in your work environment – another key element in efficient lifting and warehouse procedure.
Less maintenance and less risk
With fewer moving parts, mechanical lifts are easier and cheaper to maintain. Over the course of the lift’s lifespan, this can actually mean a saving over initially cheaper lift options. If you run a business where access to a mezzanine level is critical, a mechanical lift is a good option to minimize the risk of a breakdown that can restrict access to stairs.
In addition to this, mechanical lifts can be run continuously, which means your investment can keep paying off day and night to make sure those orders come through. Although the cost is higher, the reward is greater.
Consult with our experts to inquire about mechanical vertical lifts for sale from Shelving + Rack Systems, Inc.
Integration into advanced warehouse planning
Mechanical vertical lifts offer extensive customization and can be fully digitized to comply with a modern warehouse environment. You can have your lifts fitted with scanners and LCD screens to track and manage the movement of stock across tiers.
Warehouse owners and managers are increasingly incorporating technology and software solutions to help control operations on the floor — or up in the mezzanine! Most modern warehouse software features options to include lift operation in planning and time estimating algorithms.
By fitting lifts with lights and alarm systems, you can bring mechanical lift systems in line with any safety requirements that have been laid out for your business. It is vital that all staff are trained when a new type of lift system is installed into a storage environment. Fortunately, vertical mechanical lifts are simple to operate and understand.
Summary
Mechanical vertical lifts present a higher initial investment but can pay for themselves by working around the clock, minimizing downtime and making safety a priority.
This blog mentions just some of the ways a mechanical vertical lift solution can enhance operations in your warehouse. Creative and entrepreneurial minds are always at work to achieve a high level of efficiency by adapting these technologies to their needs!
