Optimizing the flow of materials is high on the priority list for manufacturers. Unfortunately, many manufacturing businesses feel that they fall short in this area. Fortunately, material handling equipment such as storage equipment is readily available either off the rack or custom-made. The type of equipment you choose for your manufacturing business will depend on a variety of factors from your specific manufacturing processes to your targeted goals.
Storage equipment is material handling equipment used for holding or buffering materials over a period of time (e.g. pallet racking, shelving and carts). Some material handling equipment may include the transport of materials (e.g. or storage carousels). Many of these products are often referred to as "catalog" items because they generally have globally accepted standards and are often sold as stock materials out of material handling catalogs. However, custom storage and handling equipment needs do arise. In these cases, you may require an option(s) such as:
- Custom Pallet Racks
- Custom Shelving
- Custom Storage Carts
Valley Box offers these custom capabilities and more. However, whether you choose a custom solution or a catalog item, your business will reap a number of benefits that can have a positive impact on your workers, the environment, and your bottom line.
Storage Equipment Benefits Explored
The benefits of storage equipment run the gamut from enhanced inventory control to floor space savings. Just a few specific benefits include:
- Better inventory control
- Freeing skilled employees for higher-value activities
- Improved protection of valuable inventory
- Improved work flow and shorter production times
- Reduced storage footprint
- Reduction in injury risk, which helps prevent workmen’s comp claims
- Utilization of wasted overhead space saves valuable facility floor space
In a nutshell, by adding material handling equipment, manufacturers can greatly reduce excess operating costs and increase profitability.
Other Types of Material Handling Equipment
Material handling equipment can be classified into the following categories: Storage (as discussed), Multi Use Systems, Transport Equipment, and Positioning Equipment.
Multi use systems are typically custom engineered material handling systems. These systems are often a combination of products integrated to one system. Examples include assembly stands, isolators, and product build stands.
Equipment used to move material from one location to another (e.g., between workplaces, between a loading dock and a storage area, etc.). Examples include utility carts, dollies, and cantilever carts.
Equipment used to handle material at a single location so that it's in the correct position for subsequent handling, machining, transport, or storage. Unlike transport equipment, positioning equipment is usually used for handling at a single workplace. Examples include stock movers, work positioning lifts, and hydraulic post tables.
Learn more about Valley Box’s material handling equipment solutions. Contact a material handling specialist at Valley Box today!
