Cost-Saving Tips for Investing in Durable Warehouse Pallet Racks
If you’re in the warehouse business, you need durable warehouse pallet racks. But how do you find exactly what you need without breaking the bank? We have a few ideas on that. We’ll explain the strategies you can use to lower costs while making sure you’re getting high-quality racks.
Warehouse Pallet Rack Cost-Saving Strategies
Before investing in a warehouse pallet rack, you need to understand your needs. You’ll want to take into account the type of products you store, how much loads weigh, and how frequently you need access. There are different types of racking systems, and each has pros and cons depending on your inventory and operations.
By choosing the right warehouse pallet rack system, you can avoid overspending on capacity or features you don’t need.
Consider Used Warehouse Pallet Racks
One of the most effective ways to lower costs is to buy used or refurbished pallet racks. Often, great deals on high-quality racks are available, but make sure you work with a reputable supplier to get racks in good condition.
You need to look for signs of wear, rust, or damage, which could compromise structural integrity, while also making sure racks meet safety standards that fit your warehouse workflow. You can often save 50% to 60% by buying used rather than new.
Think About the Total Cost of Ownership
While opting for cheaper materials can reduce upfront expense, it can cost you money in the long term. Consider how long you plan to use your warehouse pallet racks and focus on the total cost of ownership.
High-quality steel racks, for example, are more durable and can withstand heavy loads and wear and tear much better than lower-quality alternatives. Investing in racks made with corrosion-resistant coatings or materials that are built to handle the specific demands of your warehouse environment can save you from having to replace them more frequently.
Optimizing Warehouse Layout to Reduce Costs
This strategy may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but how you arrange your warehouse layout can save you money.
A well-designed warehouse maximizes vertical space so you store more products in less space. This reduces your overall storage needs. Improving availability and workflow also makes your operations more efficient, reducing your labor costs and improving your throughput. Since labor generally makes up about 60% of your total warehouse budget, this can add up quickly.
Regular Maintenance and Damage Prevention
Once you’ve invested in durable warehouse pallet racks, it’s important to take care of them to extend their lifespan.
You need regular inspections of your racks for any signs of wear or damage. Make repairs promptly to avoid further complications.
Implementing protective measures such as rack guards, column protectors, and end-of-aisle barriers can prevent damage caused by forklifts or other warehouse equipment. Proper employee training in handling racks and loading/unloading your goods correctly will also minimize the risk of rack damage, ultimately reducing repair and replacement costs.
Look at Alternatives for Financing
The initial cost of purchasing warehouse pallet racks can be significant, but there are financing options available. One option is to lease racks, especially if your storage needs are expected to change in the near future. Leasing lets you spread the cost of the racks over time and provides flexibility in case your operations evolve. It’s also worth exploring payment plans or financing options that allow you to break up the cost into manageable installments.
You should also explore the potential for tax incentives or deductions for warehouse improvements, which can reduce the effective cost of the racks.
Get What You Need at an Affordable Price
In the end, a well-thought-out warehouse pallet rack system can save you money and improve your warehouse’s overall efficiency, making it a valuable investment. The warehouse experts at Conesco Storage Systems can help you find the perfect fit. As one of the nation’s largest warehouse liquidators, we have access to a high volume of high-quality used pallet racks. Every rack we sell has been thoroughly inspected, so you know exactly what you’re getting, and you get transparent pricing.
We also work with top manufacturers to sell new warehouse pallet rack systems and have in-house experts and engineers to help you design, plan, permit, and install your racks. With nearly 40 years as turnkey warehouse and material handling expertise, our family-owned business can help you save money without sacrificing quality.
Contact Conesco Storage Systems at (303) 690-9591 for a free consultation.