In this tireless search for innovation and permanence in the market, many managers go beyond the basic question about what is storage system and seek to understand how it can help leverage their business.
It is easy to understand why this type of thinking occurs. Storage plays a fundamental role in the logistics process by determining the right amount of material and when it should be used. By combining technology with a storage system, companies gain agility in operational flows, minimizing costs.
But it's not enough just research the trends — you need to have critical thinking and market knowledge to decide which types of storage best fit your company's needs. And, of course, know how to choose quality suppliers, committed to quality of service.
In the midst of so much information, it is normal to feel confused. That is why we have gathered it in one post what is storage system and the main information on the topic, including how logistics processes affect the company's costs. Here you will also find a description of the systems' most popular products, with explanations of how they can be useful.
What is a storage system and what is its importance in industries?
In general, we understand storage as the logistics function that involves the treatment of materials between the time of production and their sale to the end user. The ideal storage system is one that maximizes space, as poor use makes space uneconomical. In general, doing more with less is essential to remain competitive in the market.
Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the space by checking the physical occupation to maximize it and store a greater quantity of materials. Managers need to consider planning as a way to take advantage of opportunities to reduce costs and eliminate efforts, providing more appropriate solutions for material flow and warehouse.
In addition to knowing what a storage system is, the manager needs to take into account:
● What types of items are to be stored (whether they are perishable, refrigerated, etc.);
● When they should be replenished;
● What is the minimum quantity to be stocked during a predetermined period;
● Keep inventory up to date;
● Identify and eliminate obsolete or damaged items.
All this, of course, without neglecting to keep up to date with the main trends in the sector. According to experts, the future of warehouses and distribution centers lies in Logistics 4.0 — that is, the use of technology and resources to increase efficiency and reduce related costs.
Companies are already adapting to the new way of doing business, with the complete automation of the manufacturing sector and the constant search for increased efficiency. Contrary to what many people think, this does not mean fewer jobs. On the contrary: more and more companies are companies need qualified people, who know how to think strategically to optimize processes.
The combination of automation of mechanical processes with the high specialization of employees results in “smart factory”, a concept that represents a self-optimized and self-organized workplace. This trend also reaches the management level, since it involves advanced processes and new practices in the business environment.
How does storage affect company costs?
Now that you know what a storage system is, it’s time to move on and understand how this process affects your company’s costs. We know that this is a critical area for many businesses, and rightly so.
It is the manager's duty to think of strategies that value the financial health of the enterprise. That is why it is so important to be aware of the trends and benefits of knowing the types of storage, which will be discussed in more detail in the following topics.
For now, it is worth reinforcing that storage is not a cost, but an investment. Well-structured processes are reflected throughout the business chain, reducing production time and rethinking the role of inventory within the company.
This is one of the most visible impacts of implementing a good storage system: reducing the amount of inventory. Likewise, by using solutions that are in line with the needs of your business, the chances of waste are reduced. After all, a lot of money is spent replacing items that have been lost or damaged due to disorganization.
Still on this topic, one cannot ignore that optimized inventories equal less work because they require less energy, in addition to costs related to space rental and bills such as electricity and water. Such expenses can be a real headache for companies located in very expensive cities, where the price per m² is high.
After understanding what a storage system is and applying this concept to their business, many managers notice an increase in their employees' productivity. Well-organized spaces with smart solutions allow employees to move around more quickly and find items easily.
What types of storage are available?
There are different types of storage and knowing the differences helps you choose the best solutions available. The first step in making a decision is to divide the need into temporary and fixed:
Temporary storage
In this case, the products do not stay in the same place for a long time. In many situations, it is not necessary to have a fixed and specific place for storage. This is the case, for example, of businesses focused on agriculture, which depend on the seasonality/harvest of the product.
Temporary storage is recommended for dynamic markets that require flexibility. Therefore, storage locations need to follow this profile to ensure that different needs are met.
Permanent storage
Unlike the previous type, this type involves items that remain stationary for a considerable amount of time, such as raw material storage. In this case, the permanence of the product is linked to the fact that it is constantly needed. Therefore, they need to be stored in a convenient and organized place.
What storage system solutions are available?
After all this knowledge about what a storage system is and how this process can benefit your company, it's time to learn about the solutions available on the market. This way, you will be able to understand which one is best suited to meet the company’s needs.
Pallet rack system
Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular storage types for offering maximization and optimization in logistics operations. It is no wonder that this type of system is widely found in distribution centers, warehouses and companies that work with large stocks of goods.
The pallet rack system is compatible with all types of forklifts available on the market and also supports various combinations of dimensions, weight and load volume. Among its advantages, we can mention its easy expansion for large structures, being able to operate in any positioning direction.
Bertolini Storage Systems offers three models of this system.
Conventional Pallet Truck
It provides quick access to stored pallets, making it easier to locate and move stored items. Storage levels are easily adjusted by repositioning the structure, expanding the range of diversity in storage loads. The result of this is reflected in the operation and cost-benefit for the company.
Double Depth Pallet Rack
This type allows the storage of two pallets deep on the same level, with a single aisle allowing access to four pallets per level, two on each side. This process reduces the need for multiple aisles, saving up to 35% in storage space.
Narrow Aisle Pallet Rack
Its main feature is to increase the compaction capacity of the stored material. In addition, the construction of its structure allows it to reach great heights, enabling the verticalization of spaces with restricted area. It is used from trilateral forklifts, specific for this application, and can be operated in conjunction with guide rails or by an induction guide system.
Flow rack system
When we ask ourselves what a storage system is, it is impossible not to remember the FIFO philosophy — from English, First In, First Out. In other words, the first [product] to enter must be the first to leave to avoid loss due to the merchandise's expiration date. Therefore, this system is most commonly found in medium turnover stocks, especially in companies where the shelf life of the stored product is a fundamental factor. For example, frozen and perishable products.
The flow rack is used to separate orders in facilities that operate according to the man-to-goods principle, increasing productivity and accuracy in order separation. Since the work aisles are separated, this solution ensures that stock replenishment does not interfere with order separation.
The system flow rack from Bertolini provides saving travel time between 40% and 70%, when compared to conventional shelving. In addition, it promotes reductions of up to 30% in occupied space, making it a very compact and economical solution in most storage environments.
Cantilever system
This system has a simple, resistant and easy-to-use structure. Therefore, it provides excellent storage for companies that need it. stock large parts, products and goods. It is also quite useful for businesses that store raw materials on a large scale.
THE cantilever It has horizontal and vertical structures, which benefits all processes carried out within the environment in which it will be inserted. This solution can undergo changes to better fit into the environment, providing greater versatility.
In addition to maximizing daily processes, the implementation of this system includes aspects designed for the company's future: flooring and leveling. Thus, it becomes a highly profitable investment system for businesses looking for innovations and improvements.
Self-supporting warehouse
THE self-supporting storage system reduces the need for common steps within the civil construction of a conventional warehouse. The profitable structure has reduced assembly time and is self-supporting, aiming to maximize logistics processes.
This storage solution supports large loads and heights, and its structure ensures the safety of stored items in any adverse weather conditions. In addition, it provides maximum use of storage space. Therefore, it is recommended for the construction of refrigerated storage areas.
If you have any questions about which of the available systems best fits your business needs, contact Bertolini Sistemas de Armazenagem. We have been in the market for almost 30 years, delivering projects that combine quality, technology and reliability. It is no wonder that the company is a reference in its segment in Latin America.
A good project starts with the right planning, which is why Bertolini's specialized technical team studies and plans the best solution with the best products. All of this has to do with material handling techniques, so it's time to delve deeper into this subject. Click here and download our free material on the topic!
