February 27, 2017

Whether you’re redesigning your layout or moving into a new building in Denver, determining your warehouse setup and installation is probably among your top priorities. If you set things up correctly, you can really maximize the efficiency of your operations and increase overall profits for your business.

Advice on Warehouse Setup & Installation from the Experts

If you’ve set up a warehouse before, you’re more than likely aware that it’s not the easiest of tasks. And if you’re a first-timer, it can seem like quite a daunting process. At Porta Power, we have over 25 years of experience in warehouse setup and installation. We asked our expert consultations what they’d recommend for advice in this area and they provided the following tips and tricks to help make things easier.

Designing Your Layout

Designing your layout is the first and foremost step of setting up your warehouse. Once you have a proper plan in place, you can begin installing your racking, shelving, and other storage equipment.

Planning & preparation

Warehouse layouts require a lot of planning and preparation. There are many important things to consider when drafting your plans such as pick paths, bin locations, the size of your receiving area, office spaces, and more. It’s best to determine all of these elements beforehand to make installation and setup a smoother, more efficient process. If you’re unsure about certain aspects of your design, it may be a good idea to consult a professional.

Selecting a storage system

One of the most important aspects of designing your layout is selecting the right storage system. When you choose your racking system, you should take several things into consideration such as forklift access, pallet load weight, and picking profiles.Using the right system can help better organize your inventory and get the most out of your space.

Installing Racking Systems

The most important part of racking installation is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Deviating from the instructions could affect the load-bearing capacity and stability of your racking system.

Tips for preparation

Make sure that there is adequate space for lifting devices and equipment between each assembly. In addition, you should inspect all components and gather tools beforehand. It’s also a good idea to mark the areas where corners and uprights will go when laying chalk lines.

General assembly guidelines

Make sure that all connections, locks, and anchors are secure. This helps to ensure the integrity of the structure and prevent accidents. Use a leveler to determine whether there are any slopes to the beams or uprights.

Installing Shelving Systems

As with racking, it’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing shelving. Failing to do so could result in accidents or breakage. Our experts also recommend taking the following steps to install your shelving securely.

Tips for preparation

Take careful inventory of your shelving components to ensure that all parts are present and in good condition. Gather your tools beforehand to save time. If you’re assembling metal shelving, it may be a good idea to use a rubber hammer so you don’t damage the materials.

General advice for assembly

To determine how far to set the shelves apart, gather measurements of your inventory prior to installation. When you install the braces and beams, make sure that the shelf ledges point upward to accommodate the shelf.

Sidenote: Please note that Porta Power is not responsible for any accidents, injury, or damage that may occur from installation. This article is meant to serve as a general guide for beginners. We advise all companies to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions at all times.

Speak to an Expert

Need advice for your warehouse setup and/or installation? Porta Power is Denver’s leading group of material handling consultants. Call our office today to speak with one of our experts about your warehouse project.