Optimizing space and efficiency is crucial for every business searching for a competitive edge, especially in this fast-paced world of modern technology and logistics. While we often look directly around us at eye level, we often don’t look up for viable solutions to explore the vertical space available in our facilities. At Abel Womack, we specialize in identifying these areas or opportunities and turning them into productive solutions to ensure strategic and financial success for our clients.

Most organizations face this challenge of constraints within their facility as they grow. Often growth can lead to better financial success and overall positive health for a company but can present other issues. As urbanization continues to expand and real estate prices skyrocket, available space for warehousing and storage becomes increasingly scarce and expensive. Let’s face it, moving is costly and disruptive, can cause employees commute issues, or change the strategic geographical advantages of the business. So how can you find innovative solutions to make the most of what you already have?

Rising to the Challenge

The answer is Abel Womack’s dedicated team of industry experts for warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing optimization. One of our specialties is vertical space utilization. Traditionally, many warehouses and storage facilities have underutilized vertical space, leaving valuable cubic footage unexplored. The reason for this underutilization varies and includes concerns about safety, access, and cost. However, these concerns can be addressed with proper planning and the right equipment. They are unlocking a wealth of untapped potential.

Here are some key benefits to embracing vertical space utilization that will impact a business’s bottom line:

1. Increased Storage Capacity: The most apparent advantage is storing more goods within the same footprint. This is especially valuable for companies operating in high-cost urban areas, as they can avoid the expenses of acquiring larger properties or additional facilities.
2. Improved Organization and Accessibility: Modern material handling systems and technology allow efficient organization and retrieval of goods stored vertically. With automation and taller forklifts, accessing these new heights is easier than ever.
3. Enhanced Workflow Efficiency: By utilizing vertical space, businesses can redesign their material flow, optimizing the arrangement of workstations and processes. This streamlining reduces the time to move items from one stage to another, increasing overall productivity.
4. Better Inventory Management: When materials are stored in an organized and accessible manner, inventory management becomes more effective. Companies can accurately track stock levels, minimize stockout risk, and optimize replenishment cycles.
5. Improved Safety: Advanced material handling systems have safety features, ensuring that employees and goods are protected. Automation also can play a role in less risk human employees take during hazardous tasks.
6. Error Reduction: An organized storage and retrieval system results in fewer errors. Many automated machines have operator prompts that ensure high picking accuracy.

Now that the advantages of vertical space utilization are fully outlined, how can you determine the best solutions for your facility now and in the future?

Stack up the Solutions

Abel Womack can provide a partnership and work side by side with our clients to capture their whole vision and mission. By conducting site visits and a deep dive into a business, we will address the areas of opportunity to develop a plan and fully capitalize on the advantages of vertical space utilization. Some common examples of systems and products we have implemented are:

1. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): Involves a combination of robotics, software, and controls to automate the storage and retrieval of materials. These systems efficiently utilize vertical space, providing fast and accurate access to goods.
2. Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs): Kardex Remstar is the world leader in enclosed systems with vertically arranged trays to store items securely. With a series of automated extractors, VLMs retrieve items and bring them to an ergonomically positioned access point for easy retrieval.
3. Mezzanines & Pick Modules: Installing mezzanines including conveyors and sortation allows businesses to create additional storage and throughput by utilizing the height of the building. Adding a second or third level will enable mezzanines to double or triple the space used. They are an economical solution for businesses with underutilized vertical space.
4. Pallet Racking Systems: By using taller pallet racking systems, warehouses can significantly increase storage capacity. These systems come in various configurations, such as selective, drive-in racks, push back and deep lane storage, all catering to different storage requirements.

The Sky is the Limit

In pursuing greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness, businesses must explore every avenue for optimization, and vertical space utilization in material handling should not be overlooked. Embracing modern technologies and innovative solutions will maximize storage capacity, enhance workflow efficiency, and improve overall safety.

Don’t be afraid to take your business to new heights. Call Abel Womack and have a conversation on how we can think vertically together to unlock your full potential.